Planning a wedding is a whirlwind of excitement, and one of the most thrilling aspects is undoubtedly selecting the wardrobe for the bride and her bridesmaids. The dresses they wear will not only set the tone for the entire wedding but also create lasting memories. To help you navigate this important decision, we’ve put together the ultimate guide for choosing the perfect wardrobe for the bride and her bridal party.

The first rule of wedding wardrobe planning is to start early. Wedding dresses can take several months to order and alter, so begin your search at least 9-12 months before the big day. For bridesmaids’ dresses, aim to start the search around 6-9 months in advance. This will allow ample time for fittings and alterations.

Before you dive into the world of wedding dresses and bridesmaids’ attire, take some time to define your vision. What’s the theme and color palette of your wedding? Do you want a classic, modern, bohemian, or vintage look? Consider the season, location, and overall style of your wedding when making decisions.

So where do you start? Start by researching bridal boutiques and make appointments at the ones that align with your style and budget. Bring a trusted friend or family member along for their input and support. We have a list of preferred providers that can assist with every style imaginable.

Keep your body shape in mind when selecting a gown. Different styles flatter different figures, so consult with a bridal consultant to find the best silhouette.

Establish a clear budget for the wedding dress, including alterations and accessories. Stick to it as closely as possible to avoid unnecessary stress.

Don’t forget about the accessories – veils, shoes, jewelry, and even a special robe for getting ready. These details can elevate your overall bridal look.

Allow ample time for dress alterations. Find a reputable seamstress or tailor who specializes in bridal attire. Contact us – we can help!

When it comes to bridesmaids’ dresses color and style are of utmost importance. Coordinate bridesmaids’ dresses with the wedding color palette and theme. Consider choosing a color scheme and allowing bridesmaids to select their preferred style within that color range for a cohesive yet individualistic look.

As with yourself, keep the bridesmaids’ body types in mind when choosing dress styles. Opt for universally flattering silhouettes or select different styles to suit each bridesmaid’s shape.

Prioritize the comfort of your bridesmaids. They’ll be wearing these dresses all day, so choose fabrics that breathe and allow ease of movement.

Respect your bridesmaids’ budgets. Have an open and honest conversation about costs and be considerate of their financial constraints if you are not paying for their dresses yourself.

Make the wardrobe shopping experience memorable and enjoyable. Take time to celebrate each dress fitting and involve your bridesmaids in the decision-making process. Consider a fun day out or a small get-together after dress shopping to create lasting memories. Champagne & Sparkling Wine can make this a really fun outing but remember the dedicated (and responsible) driver!

In the weeks leading up to the wedding, ensure that all final dress fittings are scheduled and completed. This will help avoid last-minute alterations and wardrobe mishaps.

And, remember that life can be unpredictable, so try to be flexible. If unforeseen circumstances arise that affect dress fittings or deliveries, stay calm and work through the challenges together. Don’t forget to capture the special moments of choosing the wardrobe. Take plenty of photos during dress fittings and shopping trips to document this exciting journey.

Selecting the perfect wardrobe for the bride and bridesmaids is a crucial aspect of wedding planning, and it’s a task that should be enjoyed and cherished.

By following this guide and staying true to your vision, you’ll ensure that the bridal party looks and feels their best on the most important day of your life.

If you need any assistance, guidance or advice, schedule an appointment with us and we will gladly share some thoughts with you.

Happy wedding planning!

 

Willem