Finding The Right Dress
Your wedding day is one of the most magical moments of your life. Choosing the right dress is a significant part of that, and with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Did you know that, on average, brides try on about four to six dresses before finding ‘the one’? If you’re on a mission to find your dream apparel, we’re here to help you find the perfect dress. From finding inspiration to selecting the best fit for a barn wedding venue in Hertfordshire, this guide will make sure you confidently say yes to the right dress!
Understand Your Style
The first step in your journey to finding the perfect wedding dress is understanding your style. While you may have a dream silhouette in mind, it’s important to stay open to options you hadn’t initially considered.
Start by browsing through wedding dress inspiration, whether it’s online or in bridal magazines such as ‘Love Our Wedding.’ Pinterest, Instagram, and bridal blogs are excellent places to start to see what’s trending. You might be drawn to a timeless ballgown, a sleek modern sheath dress, or something more bohemian, like a lace-adorned A-line gown.
It’s also worth asking yourself, why are wedding dresses white? Although tradition plays a part, modern brides often experiment with different hues like blush, champagne, or even pale blue. Ivory is also great for that slightly off-white look. Don’t be afraid to explore what speaks to you even if it is totally outside the box – we have seen a huge range of colours and styles at South Farm through the years, your dress can be as ‘Distinctly Different’ as us!
Explore Different Silhouettes
Once you have a feel for your preferences, it’s time to try on various dress styles. If you don’t know how to choose a wedding dress that suits your body shape, trying on different silhouettes is essential. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular styles:
- A-Line: Universally flattering, the A-line dress is fitted at the bodice and gradually flares out, making it perfect for almost any body type.
- Ballgown: This fairytale silhouette is ideal for those wanting a dramatic, regal look. It’s fitted at the top and has a voluminous skirt that flows out from the waist.
- Mermaid/Trumpet: A figure-hugging option that flares out at the knees, ideal for brides looking to show off their curves.
- Sheath: Sleek and minimal, this gown skims the body’s natural shape and works well for modern or beach weddings.
When shopping, try a selection of your favourite silhouettes to see what flatters your shape and complements your personality. You may be surprised at how a style you hadn’t considered ends up being your dream dress.
Consider Your Theme & Venue
Your venue plays a significant role in your choice of wedding dress. At South Farm, our enchanting barn wedding venue in Hertfordshire pairs beautifully with a variety of dress styles, but especially with those that have a romantic, rustic, or fairytale vibe. A flowing chiffon gown or a dress with lace detailing would perfectly harmonise with our countryside setting.
If you’ve chosen a specific wedding theme, make sure your dress complements it. For example:
- Bohemian: Dresses with natural fabrics, floral embroidery, or lacework will fit in seamlessly at a barn wedding venue like South Farm.
- Modern: A minimalist, sleek A-line or sheath gown will match a more contemporary theme.
- Vintage: For brides opting for a vintage theme, intricate lace or beaded gowns inspired by the 1920s or 1950s will work beautifully.
The location and time of year are also key factors. A long-sleeved gown might be perfect for an autumn or winter wedding, but it may not be ideal in summer heat. Think about how the dress will function in your specific setting whether that be outdoors in the Summerhouse in Summertime or indoors, in the Old Dairy or the enchanting Tudor Barn, ensuring comfort without compromising style.
Set a Budget
It’s easy to fall in love with a dress, but remember to keep an eye on your budget. Wedding dresses can vary in price, with designer gowns sometimes costing several thousand pounds. Be upfront with the bridal boutique about your budget, so they can guide you toward options within your price range. A good rule of thumb is to include accessories and alterations in your budget, which can often add an additional 10-20% to the dress’s cost.
Also consider whether a custom-made gown or an off-the-rack option is more suitable for you. Off-the-rack dresses tend to be more affordable and can be altered to fit your body perfectly. If you’re on a tighter timeline or budget, this could be a fantastic option that still results in a stunning final look.
And, of course, don’t forget you can always go down the more sustainable and eco-conscious route (which we love at South Farm) of using a sustainable Bridal company to source your dress or by getting a pre-loved dress. There are many sustainable and pre-loved websites out there now and you could save a substantial sum which you could use elsewhere within your budget!
Shopping Tips: Start Early, But Not Too Early
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, timing is everything. Ideally, you should begin looking 9 to 12 months before your wedding day. This allows you ample time for fittings, alterations, and even second opinions if you’re stuck between two dresses. However, shopping too early could lead to second-guessing your decision. Give yourself enough time, but not too much time to worry about whether you made the right choice.
Bring Trusted Opinions
Wedding dress shopping can be a highly emotional experience. Bring along a few close friends or family members whose opinions you trust. Too many voices can be overwhelming, so limit your entourage to two or three people. Their honest feedback will help you feel more confident in your decision while still allowing you to follow your instincts.
Keep an Open Mind
You may have a certain dress in mind, but be open to trying on something different. Bridal consultants often have a great eye for dresses that might suit you better than you’d initially considered. You may find that a silhouette or style you hadn’t thought about flatters you in ways you hadn’t imagined. The key is to remain flexible and embrace the fun of trying new things.
Finalise Your Decision: Trust Your Instincts
After all the fittings and deliberation, when you’ve found ‘the one,’ you’ll know. Trust your instincts—if the dress makes you feel confident, beautiful, and excited for your big day, it’s likely the perfect match. Don’t worry too much about what others think; the most important thing is how you feel in the gown. After all, it’s your day!
Schedule Final Fittings
Once you’ve chosen your dress, it’s time to book your final fittings. Schedule this a few weeks before the wedding to allow time for any last-minute alterations or adjustments, ensuring your dress fits perfectly on the day. Remember to bring along all your accessories, including your shoes and veil, and maybe even your Wedding Wellies, so your seamstress can ensure everything works together perfectly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wedding dress is one of the most special and personal aspects of planning your wedding day. From understanding your preferences and budget to considering your venue and theme, every detail matters. Whether you’re drawn to a sleek modern gown or a lace-adorned vintage piece, let your dress reflect your style and the beauty of your chosen venue, like our stunning outdoor wedding venue in Cambridgeshire.
As you start this exciting journey, remember that your perfect dress is out there, waiting to make your dream day complete. We look forward to being a part of that unforgettable moment at South Farm, where the beauty of our countryside setting will complement your love story perfectly.
