So I've Said Yes...but what now?
There are two scenarios here that I will cover for you.
1. You've brought a sale gown/sample (we LOVE a bargain b***h!)
2. Your gown has been ordered
in from the designer
Sale/Sample Gowns
You were lucky enough to find your dream dress with that dream price tag..AMAZING! Or, perhaps this was the only option if your wedding date is close. Generally, sample gowns have been in the store for a little while and have been tried on numerous times - with this, there may be a little wear and tear. Unless the gown is in immaculate condition and fits you like a glove, some alterations will need to be made. This will include the usual suspects such as the hem, bustle and straps. However, there may also need to be some repair to beading, tidying up threads, replacing of zips etc. I would also highly suggest having the dress dry cleaned as well - this will ensure the colour is at its best and remove any tan marks or stains that may have occurred during fittings.
Ordered Gowns
Now this is the most common scenario. As soon as you have said yes to your dress, your measurements will be taken (bust, waist and hips). These measurements will correspond to that designers sizes. A lot of the time you will come up in different sizes between the top and bottom (so so common). Some designers will offer to do a split size (at a cost) but unfortunately some do not. When given your sizes where the split size isn't possible or you don't want to pay for it, I would opt for the bigger of the sizes. That way, in alterations they can always take it in. Do not go crazy (however tempting) to get a smaller dress than you are!!! Why put so much pressure on yourself girls!
Okay so, we've ordered the gown for you. Unfortunately you will have about a 6-9 month wait for your gown to come in. What???? Dresses previously only took about 4 months or so to come in but since covid, we are seeing them take longer and longer to be made and shipped (yes, majority of designers have their gowns made overseas). So what do you do during this agonising wait?
The Waiting Game
Immediately STOP LOOKING AT WEDDING DRESSES!! You've found your dress, stop looking and browsing Pinterest and Instagram. Instead, book in for your alterations months before you need it. Usually plan the appointment for about a month before your wedding date.
Start looking for shoes as well as you will need to have these for your alterations appointment so that they can measure the hem correctly. Have a look at accessories as well and bring them to your alterations appointment - that way you can see the entire look put together.
We usually check the delivery date with the designers as the due month is approaching. Sometimes they are on time and sometimes they are not. In the event that it is running late, your bridal boutique should let you know. Otherwise, we will call you as soon as your dress has arrived and we have thoroughly checked over, steamed it and it is looking perfect for your big day!
