Story last updated at 1:47 PM EST on June 26, 2005 Making sure gowns are fitted properly takes time
Dress for success
Congratulations. Someone you know is getting married -- maybe it's even you. Once the initial shock has subsided, you realize just how much needs to be done before the momentous day arrives.
Apart from booking a place of worship, reception site and disk jockey, choosing a wedding day wardrobe is just as important an item on your "to do" list.
Finding the perfect wedding gown and bridesmaid's attire is not as easy as it may seem. Consider this down-to-earth advice to avoid a few headaches during the adventure we call planning a wedding.
Bridal-gown gaffes
Many would-be brides are so swept up with emotions concerning their wedding that they make some mistakes and have common misconceptions about the big day.
If you've bought every bridal magazine on the newsstands, you'll soon take in more information than you can handle. Limit yourself to a few periodicals. This will help prevent paging through hundreds of styles of gowns and having trouble deciding on one.
And don't start browsing too early. If your wedding is two years away, styles will likely change between now and then, and some lines may be discontinued.
When you have some general ideas of what you like, don't head into the store with your heart set on one particular gown; unless you're built like Heidi Klum or Tyra Banks, how a gown looks on the pictured model may not always be the way it looks on you. Be open to trying a variety of cuts and styles -- even ones you hadn't considered.
You may be surprised that the lacy number you thought you'd avoid is the perfect gown for you.
Bridal stores are often stocked with samples in a few sizes, unless they cater to a specific group, like plus sizes. Don't expect to fit perfectly into the gowns you try on. While that does make it more difficult to get an accurate picture of how you will look in the gown, remember that if you like the general style of the gown, it will look that much better in your size.
Sticker-shock doesn't mean price here, ladies. Major trauma can occur when you and your bridesmaids learn about bridal-gown sizing charts. Don't expect your gown to be the size you wear in ordinary clothing. Customarily, these gowns are cut smaller, and you'll probably order one a few sizes larger than your normal size.
For example, if you wear a 10, depending upon the designer, you may need to order a 14 or 16. These sizes are based upon your hip, waist and bust measurements, and then they're compared to the sizing chart for that manufacturer.
It's better to have a dress that's too large rather than one that is too small. That way, the gown can be altered to fit you perfectly.
Bridesmaid blunders
Incorporating your closest family members and friends into your big day is an honor. However, expect a few bumps along the way. Knowing about possible pitfalls can help you smooth out the ride.
Personality clashes: Kristen wants to wear crimson and Karen wants to wear powder blue. Andrea is busty and Jill is stick thin. How can you possibly choose a gown that will suit everyone when there are so many personalities and body types to consider?
Remember, you're the bride, and while it's nice to solicit the advice of your bridesmaids, you ultimately have the final say. If you want them to wear a red and green plaid gown with a big bow on the back, the ladies should grin and bear it.
When trying out bridesmaids' gowns, it is a good idea to take along at least two members of your bridal party with varying body types. That way you can see how a particular style will look on both frames.
Sticker shock, take 2: This time, we are talking about cost. Bridesmaids may agree to be in your wedding without fully understanding the costs involved. Expect that a few will be taken by surprise when they see how much that satin and tulle number will be, not to mention its alterations.
You may want to help lighten the burden by offering to purchase their shoes or another accessory.
Alterations
Alterations will definitely be needed for you and members of the bridal party. Stressing the importance of fittings will help things go smoothly.
Taking measurements: A member of the store staff will take your measurements and order the closest-size dress. Keep in mind that plus-size dresses may require an additional charge. A deposit is usually required at the time of ordering.
They've arrived: As the bride, you will receive all calls concerning the arrival of your bridal party gowns and, of course, your own. You will be responsible for informing the bridal party that they need to make their first fitting appointment, usually scheduled at least a month before the wedding date.
First fitting: Bring the undergarments, particularly the bra, you will be wearing and shoes that are similar in height to the ones you will wear on the wedding day to your fitting. A seamstress will decide where alterations need to be made. Be sure to speak up about anything that is uncomfortable or changes you would like to make.
Remember that straps can be made wider, hems can be shortened and tops can be taken in. Major alterations that involve adding fabric may require an additional cost.
Some stores include alterations in their initial dress price. Others have a set scale for work that needs to be done. Inquire about this early on, and factor it into your budget.
Next appointment: Depending upon the alterations, a follow-up appointment will be set for a few weeks later. At this time, you'll see how the gown fits after the alterations have been completed. It is essential to have your wedding-day shoes at this time to ensure that the length of your gown is just right.
At this time, if everything fits, your dress will be steamed and you can take it home. If additional work needs to be done, another appointment will be necessary.
Wardrobing your wedding party doesn't have to be a chore. Preparation is the key to heading off confusion, arguments and hard feelings so your wedding experience and memories will be enjoyable.
-- Metro Creative Graphics
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