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time for any potential alterations as well. This would also be the time to order a few yards of extra fabric for any customizations or custom accessories you may want made or for use in the wedding décor. Once the gown arrives try it on to check the sizing and carefully inspect it to make sure it is well constructed and in good condition.

Shoes/Foundation GarmentsShoes/Foundation GarmentsI think that any great fashion look is created from the inside out, but the style of a bridal gown and wedding will influence what type of foundation garments and shoes are needed. As I always say, comfort should be paramount. Find the right balance between looking good and feeling good. Although many bridal gowns are constructed with boning in the bust which allows a bride to have the option which allows a bride to have the option to not wear a bra, the right bra can make all the difference in the fit of a dress, especially if a bride has to wear one due to body shape or the style of a gown.

A good bra should fit comfortably while providing the right amount of support and the materials of the bra should be and the materials of the bra should be comfortable enough to wear for the duration of the day while wearing the gown you have chosen. A bride with a small bust may prefer a padded brad to enhance her figure in a strapless gown, however a thick padded bra worn under a rigidly structured dress made of a rigidly structured dress made of heavier fabric is likely not the best option for a summer wedding. Make sure the cut of the bra works with the style of the dress. Is the front and back high or low enough for the style of your dress? Having the right bra is essential before going to any alterations fittings. before going to any alterations fittings. It is not good to attend an alterations fitting wearing a bra with straps, if your gown is strapless.

Does you gown need a slip or petticoat? Ask the average bridal retail associate and more than likely they will say yes, (who doesn’t like a big commission). My rule of thumb is the more formal and structured a dress is the more important those formal and structured a dress is the more important those things are. A ball gown with many layers of nylon tulle may be scratchy against the legs, which is why a slip is very functional apart from keeping keep the inside of a dress clean from perspiration.

A petticoat is designed to support the shape of a gown. They can define the full volume of a ball gown or maintain the rigid structure of a mermaid gown or maintain the rigid structure of a mermaid style, but wearing a petticoat with a gown is not always

a bridal gown. A simple and easy to wear style doesn’t have to be plain and boring, an extravagant gown can be toned down and a retro or vintage dress can be modernized. Does your gathered chiffon dress need some beading or other bling to help transform it from something good into something outstanding, or can that be achieved simply through your accessories? WWould adding extra layers of tulle fabric to the skirt or having lace sleeves removed and made into rosettes to be sewn on the bodice, turn a vintage gown into a one of a kind couture work of art? When choosing a dress strive to look unique on your wedding day be it simple or extravagant.

ConsiderationsConsidering the time, effort, expense and expected results of choosing and purchasing a bridal gown choosing and purchasing a bridal gown there are a few other things to keep in mind such as:

Reputation of the retailer/designerAsk for referrals and search for reviews of any bridal retailers or designers you work with. The quality of merchandise and materials that they have access to as and materials that they have access to as well as their level of knowledge, expertise, customer service skills and business practices will determine what type of experience you will have. It should be well informed, interactive, pleasant and memorable NOT problematic! If you shop during the problematic! If you shop during the weekday, especially in the middle of the week, you are more likely to receive more attention and better customer service as there will be less traffic in and out of the shop and more time and ease for the staff to attend to you.

TTake only 1 to 3 pairs of eyes to help you shop for gowns because too many opinions can be overwhelming. In the end go with your gut instinct and make your choice from selections of gowns that make you feel beautiful. Take a camera, take a notebook, and take notes! Be sure to ask about the store’s payment policies, and any complementary services such as steaming or delivery. If possible pay with credit card instead of a debit card, this If possible pay with credit card instead of a debit card, this can provide consumer protection in the event that there is something wrong with your gown that the retailer may not be willing or able to remedy.

Ordering Are the styles you are looking at available off the rack or do they have to be special ordered, if so how long does it take for then to be manufactures and long does it take for then to be manufactures and delivered. Consider if you will have enough

Take only 1 to 3 pairs of eyes to help you shop for gowns because too many opinions can be overwhelming. In the end go with your gut instinct and make your choice from selections your choice from selections of gowns that make you feel beautiful. Take a camera, take a notebook, and take notes!

An insider’s advice on finding the RIGHT bridal gown (con’t)