Your Bridal Dress Timeline: When to Shop, Order & Alter for Perfection

So, you're about to embark on the exciting journey of finding the perfect wedding dress - yay! But where do you even begin? One of the most important things to consider when planning your bridal look is timing. A little prep will go a long way in ensuring you feel calm, collected, and absolutely stunning on your big day.

Here’s your ultimate bridal dress timeline to keep everything on track and stress-free!

1. Start Shopping 9-12 Months Before Your Wedding
Yes, this might sound like a lot of time, but hear us out! The best gowns take time to arrive, and the last thing you want is to be rushing to find your dream dress just weeks before your wedding. Starting early means you’ll have the freedom to try on different styles, find the one, and have plenty of time for any special orders or customizations. Plus, you’ll have the entire process feeling like an exciting adventure, not a mad dash!

2. Order Your Dress 6 Months in Advance Once you’ve found the one, it’s time to place the order! We recommend ordering your wedding dress around 6 months before the big day. Designers generally need 4-6 months to craft your gown, so ordering early ensures you’ll have it in time for your alterations. Trust us, you’ll be so happy you gave yourself this cushion of time!

3. Alterations Begin 2 Months Before Your Wedding
We recommend starting your alterations around 2 months prior to your wedding. At this point, your gown will be in your hands, and the magic of making it fit like a glove begins! Alterations can take a few fittings, so having a couple of months gives your seamstress the time to make everything perfect - from hemming to adjusting the neckline, and maybe even adding a little personal touch.

4. Final Fitting: One Week Before Your Wedding
It’s finally here - your final fitting! By this point, your dress will be tailored to your exact measurements, and you’ll be able to walk in confidently, knowing everything is in place. Plus, this fitting is the time to make sure your accessories are on point and you’re feeling fabulous.

At An Elegant Affair, we’re here to guide you every step of the way! Our expert team will help you with timelines, style recommendations, and all those little details to ensure your bridal look is nothing short of perfection.

Ready to start your bridal gown journey? Book an appointment with us today, and let’s make your wedding dress dreams come true!