Online Gowns

You have been browsing the online Bridal Gown shops for awhile and still have not ordered your gown. Do not take chances if you are not sure!  Just remember, your gown will take time to be designed & more time if you have to make alterations & Time is of the Essence.

I have seen lots of dresses online that are so affordable, it makes me wonder the validity of it all. So, I did a search for reviews and found DressilyMe.  Here's some of their designs:

Wedding Dress for $256.99

Wedding Dress for $239.99

Chances are, you'll need to make some tweaks to your gown to make sure it fits you like a glove on your big day. It's important that someone experienced, reputable and capable takes on that task (A good tailor).  I am NOT a reseller for any manufacturer or telling you where/how to buy your dress. These are just suggestions and open for your comments.

Read a blogger Frugal Beautiful's review on DressilyMe.

Disclaimer: This is not an advertisement for DressilyMe nor a paid sponsorship from any company. Please do your research before you buy!
* Part of A Series *

Gowns Online

You already know the style of bridal gown that fits & flatter your figure and you also know the type of fabric you want. Now you are ready to do some online shopping.

There are a lot of inexpensive gowns and knockoffs out there that may look great in the photos online, but not the quality you desire. Be sure you have a clear understanding of what fabrics are being used, how the dress is lined, and where the gown is made. If at all possible request a swatch of the material before you order, there is nothing better than to touch and feel. Each site and each designer uses a different set of measurements, so grab a measuring tape and write down your measurements, to identify your right size. Remember to wear a bra similar to what you will be wearing on your big day and stand naturally, with your heels together and arms by your side.  If you purchase a made-to-order gown you will be ordering according to the designer's standard sizing policy, which is why, as a rule of thumb they advise you to order a size up & then alter the dress to fit you perfectly. 

Please note:- Bridal Salons profit off the alterations and they always make you order up a size to pad their pockets. If you choose to go with this standard when you order online, you will need a great tailor in your back pocket.  Want an ivory dress instead of pure white? A longer train? Straps? Need a plus-size dress? These options are often available to you when you choose a made-to-order dress online. Keep in mind, that you might be charged for some of the extras and it will take time. Normally, it will take 20-25 days to tailor a new dress before arranging shipment. It might be more or less, which depends on individual dress style and order quantity. So place your order sooner than later.

Dress Shopping

Bridal Gown shopping can be fun and it can be a heartache. Many brides are shopping online due to Budget constraints & many are getting good deals. Think before you Buy!

The first thing a bride should know is what type of style she is going for on her wedding day. The dress can really set the tone and mood for the entire wedding day and should coordinate appropriately. For example, if she is having an outdoor garden wedding, then a tea-length dress would be sweet. However, if the wedding is inside a formal hotel ballroom, then she might be better suited in a full-length gown. Of course, nothing is set in stone, and some rules are meant to be broken, so do think about your venue in choosing your style.

The next thing is to pick a style that compliments your figure. If you're a busty woman, finding a bust shape that works well with your dress is important. While much of this is down to wearing the right bra, certain necklines will accentuate your feminine qualities better than others. If the lower half of your figure appears fuller, it's important to create more balance. Add some style upstairs; choose wide necklines, puffy sleeves and tops that hug the shoulders. Tops with wide-set straps will also help to visually widen your shoulders and chest area. If you're a full figured woman, strapless and sweetheart styles will accentuate your bust and curves. Go to the nearest bridal salon or any department store and try on some gowns. Get a feel for what fabrics, styles, colors, and embellishments flatter your body type, height and skin tone. You'll find out if you are not meant to wear a lace dress. Be on the look out for the pushy salesperson, who only wants to make a sale!

After you have selected the style you want, go shopping.  Start shopping in your family's closet and attic. There is absolutely nothing wrong with wearing a Used or re-purposed dress. Remember that dress your Cousin wore years ago that you loved? Give Her a call.

* First in a Series *