Finding That Perfect Wedding Dress

Buying a wedding dress is one of the most exciting purchases in woman’s life. But it might be a bit stressful as well. Make sure you avoid all the unnecessary worries and you are prepared before going out for a hunt.

Plan in advance

Finding a perfect wedding dress might take quite some time. It’s good to start looking about 9 months before the wedding. This should give you enough time not only for finding the ideal dress but also research where the same dress can be purchased with a discount. You would still have enough time for all alterations and fitting. You will also have enough time to plan your make-up and hairdo suiting the dress.

Set a budget

Decide how much you are willing to spend on a dress. Calculate that you need a veil, shoes and possible accessories. Also, additional alterations might be charged extra. Don’t try dresses which are over your budget as it leads to disappointments.

Dress comfortably

Perfect scenario would be to enter a shop and see your ‘one and only dress’ immediately. But most likely you will have to try many different dresses before you find something which suits you. Keep in mind that there will be a shopping assistant helping you get dressed each time. Pick your underwear to feel the most comfortable next to a stranger.  

Bring a trusted advisor

It can be your mother, sister, best friend or whoever you trust the most. The person should know you well and be able to give you some constructive feedback about what suits you and what doesn’t. You might also take a camera and take pictures of the different dresses to go over it at home.

Try all the silhouettes

You might already have an idea in your head about your perfect dress. Regardless, try all the shapes to see which one suits you best. The shapes of wedding dresses are A-Line, Modified A-Line, Ball Gown, Trumpet, Mermaid, Sheath, Tea-Length and Mini. Each style suits different types of body shapes, but still, you might discover that you look the best in something you didn’t expect. After you choose your favourite silhouette it will be much easier to hunt for the perfect dress. Apart from silhouettes, you can choose different styles for sleeves and neckline to compose the perfect match for yourself.

Focus on fit not size

Sizes of wedding dresses have nothing to do with sizes in other clothing shops. Instead of focusing on fitting into S size, take measurements and pick your dress based on that. Either way, most likely your dress will need additional alterations for perfect fitting. Don’t make your dress too tight hoping you might lose some weight before the wedding. Adjust it to your current weight and try to keep it on the same level or make the final fitting two weeks before the wedding but ensure the shop is able to work on it on such a short deadline.

Right wedding dress for your body type

You will choose the shape which matches your preferences but the general advice is to choose what looks the best on your body type. Wedding dresses with A-Line and Tea-Length suits all body types but there are also some special recommendations.

Hourglass - mermaids and trumpet shape will nicely enhance the curves

Pear - if you wish to hide your fuller hips the best silhouette is an A-line gown

Apple - Well-adjusted A-line dress should suit you best

Petite - the most advised shape for petite is simple and chic sheath. Try to avoid ballgowns as it can be too overwhelming  

Pick something comfortable

Your wedding dress has to be stunning but keep in mind that you will be wearing it for hours. Spend some time in a dress before you decide to purchase it. Walk around and sit to be sure you feel comfortable and you will be feeling good in it for the whole day.

Schedule your appointment

Set up an appointment so an assistant at a bridal shop can give you as much attention as needed. You will be able to try as many dresses as you wish. Check if a shop offers other products as well, such as tuxedos, accessories and dresses for bridesmaids and flower girls. It could be much more convenient if you can find all you need at one place.

Ask about the service

Check if the shop does alterations and if it’s included in the price. If not, ask how much do they charge because maybe it will make more sense to do it elsewhere.

This article is brought to you by Kenjo Boutique, Maltese retailer of the most fashionable European clothing brands.

Kenjo is part of the GTI Group which opened their first fashion retail in 1986. The brand is known in Malta as one of the chicest and fashionable clothing retailer. The store offers collections of stylish wedding dresses, bridesmaid and mother of the bride dresses. Visit the premises in Valletta or San Gwann and check the full stock. Helpful staff will happily assist you with your shopping and finding the perfect dress you’re looking for.