Dress Shopping Tips & Tricks
What It Costs Dress prices range widely-from $750 to $15,000. The average gown is around $2,000. Dresses in the lower price ranges are typically made in assembly-line fashion; couture dresses are more personally handcrafted. Don't forget to factor in the cost of your veil and headpiece (they can cost between $100 and $350) as well as accessories such as shoes, lingerie, jewelry and a purse, all of which can run from $50 to $350 each.
Ways to Save Avoid ornate, hand-done beading or lacework. Shop sample sales for floor models at discounts. Wear Mom's dress. Consider a bridesmaid's dress in white. Choose a simple headpiece and shoes. Try a consignment shop. Rent.
Size It Up Forget about your regular dress size. Bridal sizes run small, and each wedding dress manufacturer actually has its own sizing chart. A knowledgeable store will know how that designer's dresses are supposed to fit. Know, too, that every dress needs alterations. When it is altered correctly you should be able to move comfortably and the dress should stay in place.
Research Your Religion Many churches and synagogues consider bare shoulders disrespectful. Ask your officiant, and get yourself a wrap or bolero jacket if you simply must have a spaghetti-strap or strapless gown.
Be Sure Don't buy the first dress you try on, even if you love it. Give yourself all the options and the time to think. Because gowns are custom-made, once you've ordered, there's no turning back. Expect strict (or nonexistent) cancellation and refund policies.
Shop an Authorized Store If you buy a gown from a shop not authorized to sell that designer's line, there's no guarantee that your dress is going to arrive on time, if at all. If you're unsure whether a shop is authorized, call the manufacturer. (Up-to date manufacturer phone numbers are online atTheKnot.com.)
Know What You're Getting Many stores tear the labels out of sample dresses, citing the risk of price competition. But if you are ready to buy a dress, you have a right to know who the designer is. Get a name or go elsewhere.
Shop During Off Hours Take time off during the week, day or evening, to shop-you'll get more of the sales people's time and attention. At most salons you'll need an appointment.
Keep an Open Mind The most elegant gowns often have the least presence or appeal on the hanger. Try various silhouettes; you never know what's going to flatter you best until you do.
Don't Travel With an Entourage One to three fellow shoppers is sufficient. Too many opinions will just overwhelm you.
Size Matters If you are a voluptuous bride, find a salon that carries samples in a size to suit you (many do these days). There are also designers who specialize in styles for larger sizes. Log onto www.TheKnot.com/plussize for listings.
Try a Trunk Show If you find a designer you like, visit during these in-store events featuring a specific designer (or a representative of a manufacturer) and his or her entire line. You'll get an opportunity to see and/or purchase every dress in the line, not just the styles that store chose to sell that season. And you may also get to chat with the designer.
Accessorize with Care If your dress is ornate, stick with plain shoes, an unadorned veil, and a basic purse. The opposite also applies-a simple dress can stand an embellished veil or fun hat, a feathered or beaded purse, and strappy sandals.
Courtesy of The Knot via Scripps Media
