Choosing your Gown

Selecting a wedding dress is possibly one of the most exciting things for a bride-to-be to do. It's one of the most fun aspects of preparing your wedding. Regardless of whether you know what kind of gown you want or not, it is a dress you will remember for the rest of your life. Follow some of the tips below to make this pleasant task even more enjoyable!
Tips for chosing your perfect dress!

    Choosing a wedding dress is definitely one aspect of your wedding plans you do not want to leave until the last minute. Note that you will probably need to order your gown about 4-6 months in advance and you should begin looking for one at least 9 months before the wedding. Don't under-estimate how long it might take to find the gown for you. All those fittings will take time.
    A lot of brides make the mistake of ordering wedding dress that is one size smaller than their usual size. They do this with the promise to themselves that they will lose weight before the wedding. It is usually much cheaper (not to mention wiser) to order the right size. It is much cheaper to take a gown in than to let it out.
    The experience of the bridal shop staff will be able to help you in making your selection, so do not be afraid to ask questions. This will help the staff to get a feel for what you are looking for.
    Gowns don't always look the same on the hanger as they do on you, so try on more than one gown. You might find that a gorgeous gown on the hanger might not flatter your figure. Never choose a gown without trying it on.
    Bring a long a friend when you are trying on gown. Make sure it is someone with an opinion that you value and not just someone that will tell you how great you look regardless.
    As soon as your wedding dress has been ordered and arrives in the store, check it out. This will ensure that if there are any mistakes in the dress that need correcting, they can be taken care of in time.
    When it comes to your gown budget, make sure that you take into consideration things such as as headpiece, shoes, gloves, jewellery, undergarments, and accessories. Also don't forget to include alterations in your budget as there will most certainly be a few.
    Deposits on wedding dresses are usually non refundable. So once you order it, it is yours. Deposits can often be up to 50% the cost of the gown so choose wisely.
    Look out for wedding dress makers in your city close to you so it would be easier for  the arrangements. Search for Wedding Dress Melbourne or Wedding Dress Sydney or what ever your place is to find wedding dress makers close to you.

Things to Watch for:

    The way the material falls
    How the waistline feels
    How the chest area fits
    Any unattractive puckering, bunching or bulging
    Check stitching, embroidery, and beading are all securely attached.

WHAT GOWN IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Gowns, like brides, come in all shapes and sizes. Deciding on a the style for your gown is easier when you know what flatters your figure. Wearing the right cut for your body type can highlight your best features.

View all angles of yourself in your gown, not just from the front. If you see something that you don't like, mention it. The dressmaker should be able to tell you why a problem exists, and what can be done to fix it.The guide below may help you in narrowing down your selection and flatter your body type.
To look taller:

A dress with a high neckline will help you achieve a taller look. Short sleeved or sleeveless dresses with long gloves will elongate your appearance. An off-the-shoulder neckline flatters petite women. Be careful not to choose a dress that overwhelms you.
De-emphasize your height:

If you are tall, a drop waist and a wide belt with a trim or ruffles that wrap around the dress will take away the all legs look. Open and low necklines with billowy sleeves are also good. Hats or dramatic veiling are effective and will not overpower you.
If you're too slender:

Add the illusions of extra pounds by choosing a heavier fabric such as velvet or satin. Choose a more filled out bodice with a gathered waist and narrow sleeves.
To appear more slender:

A gown with a high waistline like an A-line dress will give you this illusion. You might want to consider the classic slim trick and choose to wear vertical lines. Scooped necklines are flattering but be sure to stay away from lacy ruffles, clingy fabrics and puffed sleeves.
Larger sized brides will look beautiful in A-line dresses. Avoid body-hugging gowns, with or without a waistline, flaring from the knees or slightly above. You may also want to avoid clingy fabrics such as crepe and jersey, and bulky fabrics such as velvet and heavy satin. Opt instead for lighter fabrics such as chiffons, and silk shantung.
De-emphasize your bustline:

A V-neck or high neckline with a keyhole yoke is ideal. Avoid empire or cinched waists, they accentuate larger breasts. A straight skirt or fitted bodice will flatter your figure.
Wide hips:

If you have wide hips, you can always disguise it with a ball-gown or a flared skirt. Draw attention to your upper body and waist by choosing a gown with bodice detail, like lace or beading.
Short-waisted:

If you're short-waisted, a gown that is fitted at the bodice and opening up gradually to a full skirt, will elegantly draw out your figure. A-line and drop waist bodices also help to create the illusion of an elongated torso.
Pear shaped brides:

You might consider a strapless ball gown as this will cover your bottom half and highlight your better half. An off-the-shoulder neckline will make your top look more in proportion to your bottom.
Thin and shorter brides:

You will get lost in big, ball gown styles. You may want to try them anyway. This will give you a feel for what you don't want as well as what you do want.

Choosing your gown is a wonderful experience. Allow yourself time to find the right gown for you and you will be comfortable, happy, and gorgeous on your wedding day.