Achieving the Perfect Wedding Gown

Even the youngest of girls swoon over gorgeous wedding gowns; it seems it's never too early to start planning the big day. Out of all the things involved in a wedding, the dress and the honeymoon are probably the most talked about and planned for.

When you come to the point of selecting your very special gown, there are some do’s and don’ts from professionals in the field. They include tips on how to pick the perfect dress, the best time for appointments and how often you might need bridal dress alterations.

Choose your time

It is not really ideal to have a wedding dress appointment late in the day. When you are one of the first clients, you face a bunch of energetic and fresh staff members ready to attend to you. The store will also be less crowded early in the morning, giving you the chance to chat freely with your consultant who will be focussed on you.

A matter of style

Before looking for the perfect dress, look for the perfect silhouette. Find a cut that flatters your body, not necessarily something that is currently on trend. Think of details, too. Would you perhaps like a row of pearl buttons going down the front, or maybe layers of chiffon? These details are the difference between a good gown and a great one.

Don’t pick a gown just because it's fashionable, as these don’t necessarily stand the test of time. The professionals' advice is to go for a wedding dress that is timeless – something you feel has both traditional and modern elements and will never go out of style.

Fittings and alterations

Don’t freak out about sizes, as every woman has to undergo at least some minor bridal dress alterations. The gowns usually run two or three sizes larger than your regular size. Don’t fret about what the label says, instead focus on how it looks on you. Most women get into a state of panic when they see the size label – don’t worry, you have not instantly put on weight!

Talk to your consultant and discuss fittings, trials and bridal dress alterations up front. How many trials will you need to come in for? How soon before the wedding would the last trial be? These are important questions to ask. You can never ask too many questions when it comes to your special day - so ask away.

Looking for couture wedding gowns? Tatiana Porembova is one of the leading London wedding dress designers and her work spans a range of styles and influences. Based in Richmond, she is also available for bridal dress alterations and bridesmaids outfits to provide the perfect garments for the perfect day.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.