A beautiful white gown is the first thing that comes to a woman’s mind when she envisions her wedding day. From extravagant tulle dresses to elegant body-hugging mermaid gowns, choosing the perfect one remains a personal challenge. The process is the most thrilling experience. So, whether you opt for a simple dress online or a designer wedding gown from a boutique, it is important to know a few tips to make an informed decision.

Location is the key
Location is the most crucial factor, as this can help narrow down your search for that perfect outfit. For instance, a beach wedding dress might not be appropriate for a church or a vintage wedding location.

Weather makes a huge difference
If you have a couple of locations in mind, consider the probable weather at the time of your wedding. It will help you choose the correct fabric and the cut. Most wedding dresses are made from materials that are suitable year-round. You might not want to opt for a linen dress during winters and velvet fabric during summers.

Plan your budget
After you have selected the location and the fabric of the dress, it’s time to plan your budget before you step into a store. Note that a wedding dress is an ensemble that includes a veil, undergarments, and other accessories that come at an extra cost. So, if you have eyes on a couple of designer wedding dresses, these additional accessories will bump up the price by 10 to 15 percent. Alterations, shipping, and professional pressing and steaming may cost a couple hundred dollars more. Therefore, do thorough research. If you are confused with the process, consult a personal stylist.

Consider your body shape and style
Not all dresses are appropriate for all body types and styles. Hence, it is important that you identify the right silhouette for your body type. If you have a curvy body, you can choose a mermaid dress that enhances your curves in all the right places and avoid those that draw attention to the less attractive attributes. You can also opt for a fit and flare option suitable for any wedding theme. And if you have a creative picture of a gown in your mind, consider customizing your outfit.

Comfort is essential
Feeling beautiful and comfortable when you walk down that aisle on your big day is crucial. Some wedding dresses might look gorgeous on mannequins in the bridal salon, but they might not be as comfy as you expected. So, ensure that the wedding dress you opt for is comfortable and breathable. You do not want the dress to overpower your body and compromise comfort.

Avoid flying solo
It doesn’t hurt to get a second, third, or even fourth opinion when choosing a wedding dress. Your entourage or family members might give you helpful insights while you try a couple of dresses. However, ensure your opinion doesn’t get overpowered throughout the process. Do not get let down if you do not get the one in the first store itself. You can look around, check different stores or take help from a professional.

Trials are important
Many celebrity wedding stylists suggest that almost every dress looks gorgeous on a hanger. So, don’t shy away from trying it once to make sure it looks equally beautiful on you. Also, know what you want in terms of the silhouette, style, and fabric. If you are looking for wedding dresses from a clearance sale, make sure you try the dress before you go through the payment process. However, do not go overboard and try every outfit you find, as it might confuse you, delaying the selection process.

Do not rely on trends
Trends, especially those associated with wedding dresses, do not usually stand the test of time. Flipping through your parent’s wedding album might give you a better insight. A wedding gown can be timeless. Even if you don’t have a wedding dress as a reference, you can customize a dress that is a perfect mix of contemporary and traditional elements.

Start early
Planning a wedding can be hectic, especially when you are unprepared. The venue, food, décor, and many other aspects must be on point to host guests. Hence, it is best to start looking for your dream dress as early as possible. It will also give you sufficient time to complete alterations if required. Last-minute selections might leave you with fewer choices and samples.