When to start wedding dress shopping
One of the most common questions we get asked is: When should I start shopping for my wedding dress? While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, here are a few key factors to consider before booking your appointment.
Our most important advice
The best time to start shopping is when you feel ready to find and buy your dress - whether that means financially, emotionally, or physically if you're on a weight loss journey. Waiting until you’re ready can help you avoid the disappointment of finding the one but not being able to purchase it.
The average timeframe
Most brides start dress shopping 6–12 months before their wedding. This is a great timeframe as it allows plenty of time for any alterations and finding your other accessories. However, this is just an average! Some brides shop two years in advance, while others find their gown just four months before. We accommodate every timeline since our dresses are sold off-the-peg, meaning you avoid lengthy ordering times completely.
Want to shop earlier?
There’s no such thing as too early if you’re ready to say yes to the dress! Shopping ahead of time can be a great way to tick a big task off your list. It helps to have your venue booked or chosen as this can influence your dress. Be aware of buying a dress too far in advance if your weight fluctuates. We also don’t recommend shopping early when you’re not ready to commit yet - read more on why we advise this here.
Want to leave it closer to your wedding date?
Some brides prefer to wait, especially if they’re on a weight loss journey. That’s completely fine! You can shop as close to your wedding as you feel comfortable, but we recommend starting at least 4–6 months before to avoid last-minute stress.
If you are leaving it later because you are worried about trying dresses or the dress shopping process please don’t stress! We offer an incredibly relaxed appointment with non-pushy stylists that love to help brides feel their best. Read our guide on pre-shopping nerves here.
If now feels like the right time, we’d love to help you find your dream dress - book your appointment online now! Drop us a message here if you have any questions - we are here to help.