When Should You Start Wedding Dress Shopping? Tips for the Perfect Timeline
You’ve said yes to forever, and now comes one of the most exciting part — finding your wedding dress. Getting the timing right matters because ordering your dress, attending fittings, and completing alterations takes time, and starting too late can turn a joyful experience into a stressful rush.
To help you plan ahead, we’ll walk you through the ideal timeline for dress shopping, factors that can influence when to start, and common mistakes to avoid, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to find the gown that feels just right.
Let’s dive in and explore the best timeline for finding your wedding dress, so you can enjoy every step of the journey.
The Best Time to Start Shopping
So, what's the magic number? We recommend you start 9 to 12 months before your wedding day. This might sound like a long time, but it's the sweet spot for a few important reasons.
Starting early gives you a relaxed and enjoyable experience, allowing you to explore different styles without feeling rushed. Many designer gowns are made-to-order, which means the creation process doesn't begin until you've placed your order. This can take anywhere from four to six months.
Once your beautiful gown arrives, you'll need time for alterations. Most dresses require at least two or three fittings to ensure a perfect fit. This process can take an additional two to three months. Factoring in potential shipping delays or the need for more complex customizations, that 9-12 month window gives you a comfortable buffer to avoid stress and any unexpected rush fees.
What Influences Your Shopping Timeline?
While 9-12 months is a great guideline, a few factors can influence when you should start looking.
Your Wedding Date & Season
The time of year you're getting married can affect your timeline. If you're planning a wedding during the peak season (typically late spring through early fall), bridal boutiques will be busier, and designers might have longer lead times. Starting your search a little earlier can help you secure appointments and get ahead of the rush.
Your Dream Dress Style
Have your heart set on a highly detailed, custom-designed gown? The more intricate the dress, the longer it will take to create. If you’re envisioning custom beadwork, unique lace patterns, or significant structural changes, plan to start your search a few months earlier to allow plenty of time. On the other hand, if you’re considering a simpler style or are open to purchasing a sample dress off the rack, you’ll have more flexibility with your schedule.
Budget & Designer Choices
Your budget and preferred designers also play a role. Some high-end designers have longer waitlists and production times. If your dream dress comes from a specific couturier, research their typical timeline as soon as you can. It's also important to remember that rush orders often come with hefty fees, so planning ahead can help you stay within your wedding budget.
A Step-by-Step Guide to a Joyful Shopping Experience
Ready to begin your search? Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the process with ease and excitement.
1. Gather Your Inspiration
Before you even step into a boutique, spend some time gathering inspiration. Create a Pinterest board, save posts on Instagram, or flip through bridal magazines. Pay attention to the silhouettes, necklines, and fabrics you're drawn to. Having a general idea of your style will help your bridal stylist pull dresses that you'll love.
2. Set Your Budget
Talking about money can be tricky, but setting a clear budget is one of the most important steps. Decide on a price range you're comfortable with before you start trying on dresses. Don't forget to factor in the cost of alterations, which can add several hundred dollars (or more) to the final price.
3. Book Your Appointments
Now for the fun part! Research bridal boutiques that carry styles you admire and fit within your budget. We recommend booking appointments at two to three shops to start. This gives you enough variety without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Enjoy Your Appointments
This is your moment! When you attend your appointments, go with an open mind. Trust your stylist—they're experts and might pull a "wild card" dress that you end up loving. Wear nude-colored undergarments and bring the shoes or accessories you're considering for your big day.
5. Say "Yes!" to the Dress
When you find the dress that makes you feel incredible, you'll know. Trust your instincts. Once you've made your decision, you'll place the order and make a deposit. Your stylist will take your measurements to order the closest size, and the creation of your gown will begin.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To keep your dress shopping experience as smooth as possible, here are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of.
Starting too late: This is the biggest source of stress for brides. A rushed timeline can lead to limited choices, extra fees, and sleepless nights. Give yourself the gift of time!
Bringing too many people: While it's tempting to bring your entire bridal party, too many opinions can be confusing and overwhelming. Invite one to three trusted friends or family members whose opinions you value most.
Forgetting about alterations: Remember that the cost and time for alterations are separate from the dress purchase. Factor this into both your budget and your timeline to ensure your gown fits you perfectly.
Find Your Dream Dress With Us
Finding your wedding dress should feel joyful and memorable — a moment you’ll look back on with a smile. When you plan ahead and start your search about a year before your wedding, you give yourself the gift of time to explore, enjoy, and fall in love with the gown that feels like you.
At Atlanta Street Bridal, we’re here to make that experience effortless and meaningful. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be welcomed into a warm, private space where it’s all about you and your vision. With over 175 size-inclusive gowns and expert stylists by your side, you’ll have all the support you need to find the one that makes your heart skip a beat.