When to shop
Where you get your dress from will determine how far in advance you will need to shop. Looking for a good deal may take a bit of sleuthing whereas borrowing your mother's dress won't take much time at all. No matter where you get your dress from, it's highly likely that you'll have to have alterations done (on- or off-site...usually more than once) so leave enough time for that. Stores may need to special order your dress as well. To avoid stress, if you're purchasing a dress, start as early as you can. This will allow you some time for events like sample sales or trunk shows happening in Ottawa or nearby.
Getting ready to shop
Getting ready to go dress shopping? You may think that not eating before trying on dresses will give you the best look but dress-shopping can be time-consuming, so take time to nourish yourself and just think: you'll likely be eating at your wedding in your dress (ie. You don't want it to be too tight). Bring along something to keep you hydrated too. Also, if eating beforehand messes up your make-up, no need to worry as some stores may not allow make-up while you try on dresses.
Click here for a few wedding dress silhouettes and consider what works for you. The shopping experience that you have will depend on the store that you visit but no matter where you go, you will be getting undressed and dressed many times, so don't forget to think about what undergarments you wear; if you're modest, consider bringing a slip (although some stores may provide one or a bustier). Depending on the dress, a strapless bra may be fine while some dresses will have built in cups or boning. For the bottoms, comfort is important; if your dress is more form-fitting, consider wearing a body-shaper (such as spanx). If you have a certain type of shoe in mind (flats versus stilettos), bring those along as well.
A tip from Chelsy of chelsy anne:
Don't let the dress compete with the jewellery. If you have tons of detail at the top of the dress do statement earrings over a statement necklace.
Also, if you're having a destination wedding, find something that is not only suitable for the climate and the landscape but also for the transportation. For example, if you're travelling on a budget airline or to a popular wedding destination during peak times, cargo space (in cabin) may be very limited.
Time to wear what you got!
You've found a dress and it fits you perfectly. Before you head to your wedding, practice walking and sitting in your dress. Try your dress on with the undergarments that you'll be wearing at your wedding. If your wedding isn't at your house, you'll likely have to transport the dress. If your dress will be travelling far, you'll also want to think about whether the dress may need to be pressed or cleaned before the wedding. If you have a complicated dress, don't forget to ask a friend to help you in the bathroom.
Oh yes – and don't forget to enjoy yourself!
And what about the gents?
Here are some tips on shopping for a tuxedo but theknot.com has some great articles on helping grooms and groomsmen look sharp at the wedding.
Bridesmaids and mothers
Theknot.com has some articles for bridesmaids and mothers as well. If you're looking to save some money, why not find secondhand dresses that are all of the same colour or design and personalize them with your own special details, such as a sash, buttons, or shawls. You can visit crafty sites such as Etsy to gather inspiration. If you find a set of light-coloured dresses or outfits, you can also dye them to a suitable colour or colours.
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