Your stress-free timeline for wedding dress shopping
Choosing your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. But with so many styles, boutiques and fittings to think about, it can also be a little overwhelming. The key? Start early and follow a clear timeline so you can enjoy the experience – and avoid any last-minute panic.
Here’s your month-by-month guide to finding the dress of your dreams, feeling fabulous in it and walking down the aisle with confidence.
12 months (or more!) to go – get your inspo on!
It might feel early, but trust us – the sooner you begin, the smoother the journey will be. Start by building a picture of what you love.
- Flick through bridal magazines and visit your favourite wedding websites.
- Create a Pinterest board filled with dresses, necklines, fabrics and silhouettes you’re drawn to.
- Think about the overall vibe of your wedding – will your dress suit a romantic countryside barn, a glamorous hotel ballroom or a breezy beach ceremony?
This is your time to dream, explore and enjoy the process.
10-12 months to go – book boutique appointments
Now that you’ve got a sense of what you like, it’s time to get hands-on.
- Book appointments at bridal boutiques – especially if you have your eye on a specific designer. Many popular shops book up weeks or even months ahead.
- Bring a trusted friend or close family member. One or two honest opinions are helpful; more than that can quickly get overwhelming.
- Try on a variety of styles. Even if you’re sure you want a sleek column dress, you might be surprised how much you love a classic A-line or whimsical ballgown.
- Set a realistic budget and remember to include accessories, shoes and alterations in your total spend.
This is the fun part – enjoy playing dressing-up and narrowing down your favourites!
9-10 months to go – say yes to the dress
Found the one? Congratulations! Most bridal gowns are made to order, which means you’ll need to allow plenty of time for production and delivery.
- Double-check the size you’re ordering – bridal sizing can run smaller than high street clothes.
- Ask whether alterations are included or available in-house.
- Request a fabric swatch to help match your bridesmaids’ outfits or accessories.
Need help choosing the right material? Don’t miss our Wedding Dress Fabrics Guide for all the need-to-knows.
6-8 months to go: plan your bridal look
With your gown on order, you can now focus on finishing touches.
- Shoes – choose a comfortable pair that complements your dress and suits your venue (heels on a lawn are not ideal).
- Accessories – whether it’s a cathedral-length veil, a floral crown or sparkly hair pins, select pieces that enhance, rather than compete with, your dress.
- Jewellery – pearls, diamonds, vintage brooches… the choice is yours. Just aim for balance and cohesion in your overall look.
Our Guide to Wedding Dress Accessories is packed with inspiration to help you pull everything together beautifully.
3-4 months to go: first fitting
Your dress should now be ready for its debut. It’s time for your first fitting!
- Bring along the undergarments and shoes you’ll wear on the day.
- Walk, sit, and yes – do a little dance – to see how your dress moves with you.
- Make notes of any alterations needed and schedule a follow-up fitting.
Remember, it’s not just about looking amazing – you want to feel comfortable and confident too.
6-8 weeks to go: final alterations
This is where everything starts coming together.
- Check that all adjustments (such as hemming, straps or the fit of the bodice) are complete.
- Practise walking and moving in your dress, especially if it has a train or bustle.
- Try on your whole outfit – including veil, jewellery and shoes – for a proper dress rehearsal.
Still unsure if the fit is right? Our Guide to Wedding Dresses for Your Body Shape can help you feel more confident in your choice.
1-2 weeks to go: collect your gown
With the big day around the corner, this is your final chance to check everything is perfect.
- Steam or press your dress so it’s crease-free.
- Store it in a breathable garment bag and keep it well away from pets, kids, food and humidity.
- Start wearing in your wedding shoes at home to avoid any pinching or blisters.
Take a moment to breathe and enjoy this special countdown.
The day before: get organised and relax
The night before your wedding should be calm, joyful and as stress-free as possible.
- Lay out your dress, accessories and shoes ready for the morning.
- Make sure someone (a bridesmaid or close friend) knows how to help with any buttons, ties or tricky zips.
- Get a good night’s sleep – you’ve earned it!
Be your beautiful self
Wedding-dress shopping is a magical milestone in your life, and with the right timeline in place, it can be a smooth and enjoyable process, too. Give yourself time to explore, fit and finesse your bridal look so that when the big day arrives, you feel as beautiful and confident as you deserve to.
Related posts:
- Your complete guide to wedding dress fabrics
- How to accessorise your wedding dress
- Wedding weight-loss plan: feel confident & radiant on your big day
