The Ultimate Bride’s Guide to Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress

Hi everyone,

Finding the perfect wedding dress is a momentous part of any bride's journey, steeped in cultural significance and personal emotion. It symbolizes the unique beauty and individuality of the bride, making it a deeply personal choice. So I wanted to give you this little guide to walk you through the journey, providing insights and tips to help you find "the one" dress that makes you feel wonderful on your special day.

1. Understanding Your Style and Preferences

The first step to finding your dream dress is understanding your personal style. Are you someone who prefers the elegance of a classic gown, or do you lean towards something more modern and edgy? Perhaps you gravitate towards a bohemian style that feels free and whimsical. Think about the styles you feel most confident and comfortable in and how they align with your personality.

Also consider the theme and venue of your wedding. A flamboyant ball gown might not be appropriate for a casual beach wedding, while a sleek, minimalist dress might not work well for a grand cathedral.

If there are multiple locations or "phases" planned for the wedding day, you may choose to change dresses during the evening. If a dress change is necessary, you may choose to go with an elaborate dress with, for example, a long train (very trendy for couple photos!) while the 2nd dress will allow you to move freely and fully enjoy your evening without any discomfort or restrictions.

2. Setting a Budget and Timeline

Wedding dresses can vary significantly in price, so it's important to have a realistic budget in mind. Understanding the cost breakdown—such as alterations, accessories, and possible shipping fees—can help in setting an appropriate budget. Remember, a higher price doesn't always guarantee the perfect dress, and there are beautiful options at every price point.

Allocate your budget wisely by prioritizing elements that matter most to you. For instance, you might spend more on intricate lace but save on simpler silhouettes. Also, consider your timeline. Start shopping for your dress at least eight to twelve months before your wedding, allowing ample time for fittings and alterations.

3. Exploring Options

The hunt for your wedding dress can lead you to different places. Bridal boutiques offer personalized experiences, while department stores may have more affordable options. In Montreal, St-Hubert Street is well known for its many wedding dress boutiques. There, you'll find boutiques like Château Nadia and Oui, à la robe blanche, which have a wide range of quality dresses, but also several boutiques with more affordable dresses. On St-Laurent, another wedding dress boutique with in-store fittings is Boudoir 1861, which offers a nice selection of dresses available in all sizes (it's also a great place to find bridesmaid dresses for under $150!).

Don't overlook online shopping, especially if you're looking for a specific designer or style. Sites Missacc or Shein  offer a wide range of wedding dresses that you can order for under $300. Sure, the quality isn't always there, but if you know a good seamstress or are willing to alter it yourself, that's a great place to start! You can always go to a store to pick out the cut and style of dress you're looking for and then try to find that type of dress online at a better price.

Social media platforms and bridal magazines are also gold mines for inspiration. Create mood boards on Pinterest or Instagram to gather ideas on what catches your eye. Bridal shows and fashion shows are great for seeing dresses up close and even scoring deals on some designers.

4. The Shopping Experience

If you want to have a little evening of trying on dresses with your family and friends like on TV shows, know that many boutiques offer VIP experiences where you can reserve a small private room for your fitting, and this, without obligation to buy! Some boutiques charge a small amount for a more intimate experience and provide bubbles and snacks while other boutiques allow you to make appointments and bring your own stuff.

In all cases, it is essential to choose the people you will bring to your dress shopping appointments. Choose a small group of trusted friends or family members who understand your style and will not overwhelm you with opinions. It is easier to shop with people who know your budget and who will not put more pressure than necessary to make an impulse purchase. Remember, this is your moment and you should feel comfortable.

During your appointments, expect to try on multiple dresses—they often look different on the hanger than they do on you. Take note of how each dress fits you and how you wear it. Use your time in the store to explore options you hadn’t considered and discover what looks good on you. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t immediately find “the right dress.” Trust the process!

5. Making the Final Decision

When evaluating dresses, consider fit, comfort, and style. Create a checklist to help you objectively evaluate these factors. It’s easy to be swayed by a gorgeous dress that isn’t comfortable or doesn’t fit the theme.

Listen to other people’s opinions, but trust your instincts. If you’re torn between two dresses, think about which one fits your vision and how it makes you feel when you wear it. A good idea is to wait a few days after the fitting to give yourself time to make a “cold” decision.

The right dress not only reflects your style, but also makes you feel beautiful and confident.

Conclusion

To find your wedding dress, it is essential to understand your style, set a realistic budget, explore several options and enjoy the shopping experience. But above all, trust yourself! Finding the perfect dress is a journey, but with patience and advice, you will find the one that will make you shine. Don't let external pressure fool you. The dress should make you feel beautiful, confident and happy, and if that's the case in a blue dress, then be it!

I sincerely hope that this little guide will help you in your search for THE dress.

Do not hesitate to leave your questions or suggestions in the comments. It will be my pleasure to answer you

With love,

Lusiné A.