You’ve worn all sorts of dresses in your life but none will
be as discussed, anticipated and photographed as the one you’ll wear on your
wedding day. Most brides have very specific ideas about The Dress, which is why
they have it professionally made rather than bought from a store. Once you’ve
picked the perfect dressmaker, follow these tips to make sure the dress you’ve
been daydreaming about is brought to life.
Do Your Homework
Whether you’ve been planning this dress since you were a
starry-eyed teenager or only from your engagement, page through bridal magazines
and wedding catalogues/ galleries and scour the Internet to find some
inspiration. Look at fabric samples but don’t buy anything until you’ve
consulted with your dressmaker. They are experts in textiles and will have a
better idea of how the material will translate (or not!) into your wedding
dress. You want your personality and style to shine through, so think about
details like length, neckline, waistline and sleeves.
• The more information you give your dressmaker, the easier
it will be to produce your dress.
Have Some Fun
Now that you have specific ideas, take your bridesmaids and
try on a few ready-to-wear dresses. It’s fun and it makes your wedding day feel
more real. It’s also a chance to see what cuts suit your body shape. Be brave
and put on something you wouldn’t ordinarily pick - you may be pleasantly
surprised.
• Trying on dresses will help you figure out what styles you
like and dislike.
Consulting With Your Dressmaker
Weddings are big events and they take a lot of planning, so
make sure you give your dressmaker enough time to finish your frock without
having to rush. On average this is between 4 – 8 months but it depends on the
details of the dress. Find out what you need to bring to your fittings; the
shoes and underwear you’ll wear on your wedding day are recommended as they
help with sizing. Designers are visual, so make sure you come armed with all
your sketches, photos, magazine cut-outs and ideas. Be upfront and honest about
your taste, the style of the wedding and your budget and expect the same
frankness from your dressmaker.
What to ask:
• When will the dress be finished?
• Are there additional charges you’re going to surprise me
with?
• Can I negotiate the terms of payment?
Compromise is Key
Even if you’re quite certain about what you want, banish
bridezilla and keep an open mind. The style you love might not suit your body
shape and the material you have your heart set on might not work with the style
you choose. Your dressmaker may suggest a different cut or alternative fabric
that will do a better job of accentuate your assets. You need to find a happy
union between comfort and looking drop-dead gorgeous. Speak to your dressmaker
about sourcing the material as they may be able to get it cheaper than you.
What to ask:
• What fabric do you recommend?
• What colour goes best with my skin tone?
• What style suits my shape?
• What do you expect me to supply?
Your Dress Fittings
Whatever you do, don’t rush your fittings! It’s so important
to make sure your dress fits properly, so plan ahead to book your dates. Don’t
squeeze the appointments into your lunch break, give yourself time to relax and
enjoy the experience. When your dress is on, move around to make sure it’s
comfortable, that it stays up and that you can breathe, after all you’ll be
doing a lot of dancing on your wedding night!
What to ask:
• How many fittings will there be?
• When is the last fitting?
• What if my weight changes and I need final adjustments?
Say Yes to the Dress
A custom-made wedding dress turns a bride’s fantasy into
reality. By making sure you know what you want, you can get the best out of
your dressmaker and you’ll walk down the aisle in a dress that’s come straight
from your dreams.
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