The day you get married is one of the most extraordinary moments of your life, and the quest for the ideal wedding dress is a key element in making that day memorable. But when should you start shopping for your wedding dress? And when should you stop?

In this guide, we’ll discuss the ideal timeline for wedding dress shopping and provide tips on when to stop searching for the perfect gown.

Ph. Studio Bonon, Bridal Gown by Jesus Peirò

The Ideal Wedding Dress Shopping Timeline

12-18 Months Before the Wedding

The ideal time to start shopping for your wedding dress is 12-18 months before your wedding day. This might seem like a lot of time, but it gives you enough time to find the perfect dress, make any changes needed, and have it delivered in time for your special day.

Starting early means you can try out various styles and designers. Plus, you can make the most of sales and discounts. It also allows for more flexibility in case you change your mind or need to order a custom gown.

8-10 Months Before the Wedding

If you haven’t found your dream dress within the first few months of shopping, don’t worry. You still have plenty of time to find the perfect gown. However, it’s important to start narrowing down your options and making decisions.

By now, you should have identified your preferred style and silhouette. Your next step is to pinpoint the perfect dress within your chosen category. It’s also a good time to start thinking about accessories and undergarments that will complement your dress.

6-8 Months Before the Wedding

At this point, you should have found your dream dress and placed your order. If you haven’t, it’s time to make a decision and place your order. Keep in mind that most wedding dresses take 4-6 months to be made and delivered, so it’s important to give yourself enough time.

If you’re ordering a custom gown, it may take longer, so be sure to check with the designer or boutique for their timeline. It’s also a good idea to schedule your first fitting for a few months after your order is placed.

4-6 Months Before the Wedding

Your dress should have arrived by now, and it’s time for your first fitting. This is when you’ll try on your dress for the first time and make any necessary alterations. Make sure to plan ahead for your fittings and let your seamstress know if anything changes or if you have any worries.

2-3 Months Before the Wedding

By now, your dress should be almost perfect and only require minor alterations. It’s important to schedule your final fitting a few weeks before your wedding day to ensure that everything is perfect.

1-2 Weeks Before the Wedding

Your final fitting should be scheduled for 1-2 weeks before your wedding day. This is when you’ll try on your dress for the last time and make any final adjustments. It’s also a good idea to bring your accessories and undergarments to ensure that everything fits perfectly.

When to Stop Shopping for Your Wedding Dress

When You’ve Found Your Dream Dress

The most obvious reason to stop shopping for your wedding dress is when you’ve found the one. If you’ve tried on multiple dresses and keep coming back to the same one, it’s a sign that you’ve found your dream dress.

It’s important to trust your instincts and not second-guess your decision.

Bear in mind, there are countless stunning wedding gowns out there, but the ideal one for you is the one that boosts your sense of beauty and confidence to the highest.

When You’ve Reached Your Budget

Another important factor to consider is your budget. When purchasing your wedding gown, it can be tempting to go overboard. However, it is extremely important to follow your budget in order to avoid any financial pressure.

Once you’ve found a dress that you love and that fits within your budget, it’s time to stop shopping and focus on making that dress perfect for your big day.

When You’ve Found the Perfect Dress for Your Venue and Theme

Your wedding dress should complement your venue and overall theme. After you've discovered a gown that flawlessly matches your wedding theme, it's time to halt the shopping and concentrate on refining that gown for your memorable day.

When You’re Running Out of Time

As mentioned earlier, it’s important to start shopping for your wedding dress early to avoid any last-minute stress. If you’re running out of time and haven’t found the perfect dress, it’s time to make a decision and stop shopping.

Always prioritize finding a dress that you truly adore and suits you well. Don't hurry into finding the absolute perfect dress, as that may lead to settling for something that doesn't entirely please you.

Tips for a Successful Wedding Dress Shopping Experience

Do Your Research

Before you start shopping for your wedding dress, it’s important to do some research. Look at different styles and designers to get an idea of what you like and what you don’t like. This will help you narrow down your options and make the shopping experience more efficient.

Keep an Open Mind

While it’s important to have an idea of what you want, it’s also important to keep an open mind. You may be surprised by a dress that you didn’t think you would like, or a style that you never considered before.

Bring a Trusted Friend or Family Member

Bringing a trusted friend or family member to your dress appointments can be helpful. They can provide honest feedback and help you make decisions.

But remember, it's your decision and you should choose a dress that brings you joy.

Don’t Be Afraid to Say No

If you try on a dress and it’s not what you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to say no. It’s important to trust your instincts and not settle for a dress that you’re not completely in love with.

Conclusion

Shopping for your wedding dress is an exciting and memorable experience.

If you stick to a good plan and know when to stop shopping, you can find the perfect dress and make your wedding day even more amazing. Remember to trust your instincts, stick to your budget, and enjoy the process of finding your dream dress.

You may also like: A Complete Guide to Shipping a Wedding Dress for a Destination Wedding , Bride's Outfit, the Complete Guide to Wedding Accessories., 5 Essential Tips for Finding Your Dream Wedding Dress

When to Start Shopping for Your Bridal Gown and WHEN to Stop