How to plan and order the perfect bridal outfit

Choosing a wedding dress is one of life’s most pleasurable dilemmas. Getting it right, however, takes some planning. This is the fun part of getting married and an occasion to express your style…

Setting a budget

A good way to define your budget is to set priorities. How much do you want to spend on jewellery, accessories and other trousseau outfits? How much can you realistically afford to spend on the main wedding attire?

Brainstorm with friends

Consider hosting a casual get together with your close friends so you can brainstorm about wedding ideas and talk about dress styles.

Do your homework

Check out the leading wedding catalogues, magazines and websites. Pick out your favourite styles by pulling out pages, photocopying or taking print outs from websites.

Word of mouth

Nothing beats asking women whose style you admire for their favourite shops or designers. Ask recent brides to recommend shops for good service.

Visiting shops

Try not to visit more than three shops in one day. It can become confusing and frustrating trying to remember which bridal ensemble was where. It may be advisable to give yourself a day’s gap in between shopping trips so that you can reflect on the dresses you tried on the day before.

Take notes

Ask your mother, sister or close friend to accompany you and get them to carry a notepad to make notes of details such as: colour, type of fabric, length of the lehenga, design of the embroidery, the sleeves, the shape of the neckline and the price. These notes will help you remember the unique details of each dress.

Book an appointment

Most designers and shops recommend that you make an appointment. That way you’ll be certain to receive the consultant’s full attention and service.

What to ask the shop

• Can they create a custom design
• Suggestions of styles to suit your body type and skin colour
• Samples of embroideries, fabrics and colours
• References
• Time schedule for delivery

Final fitting

Your final fitting should take place a month before your wedding. You need to ensure that your choli (bodice) fits perfectly. Walk around the shop and take note of whether the material feels scratchy and look out for any defects. Ensure that the shop packs your dress well to ensure that it will be crease‐free on the day.