What to Wear to Wedding Dress Shopping
Shopping for your wedding dress should feel magical, but let's be honest—it can also be a little overwhelming. One way to make the experience more fun and stress-free? Wearing the right outfit! Believe it or not, what you wear to your bridal appointment can make a big difference in how smoothly the day goes and how much you enjoy the process.
We're here to walk you through what to wear (and what to avoid) to ensure you're setting yourself up for a successful and enjoyable wedding dress shopping experience. Let's start planning your outfit!
Comfort is Key
First things first, wedding dress shopping often means trying on a LOT of dresses. That means you’ll be changing in and out of outfits for hours, so comfort should be your top priority. Opt for something lightweight and breathable, such as a sundress or leggings with a comfy top. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re swapping dresses with ease instead of wrestling with tights or stiff fabrics.
Remember, some bridal boutiques have intimate settings where you may be changing in smaller spaces, so wearing something simple can save time and effort.
Invest in the Right Undergarments
Having supportive and seamless undergarments is crucial for an easy dress-trying experience. The right bra will make a world of difference when it comes to how dresses fit and feel. We'd recommend wearing a strapless or convertible bra so you're covered for any neckline. For added comfort and versatility, consider nude-colored undergarments to avoid visible lines under lighter dresses.
If you’re planning to wear shapewear on your wedding day, bring it along! Trying it on with potential gowns will give you a better sense of the fit and look. Plus, it ensures no surprises later when you’re assembling your big-day ensemble.
Wear Easy-to-Remove Outfits
When it comes to outfits for the day, here’s the secret sauce: the simpler, the better. A button-up shirt or a zip-up hoodie paired with comfy pants is a fantastic choice. Why? They’re easy to slip on and off without messing up your hair or makeup in the process. Save the complicated jumpsuits and tight tops for another day.
If you’re already wearing your favorite “easy outfit,” you’ll breeze through the transitions from one stunning gown to the next.
Choose Practical Footwear
The shoes you wear to your bridal appointment matter more than you might think! If you’ve already chosen your wedding shoes (go you!), bring them along to try on with dresses. Your shoes can impact how the dress falls, especially if you’re deciding between a floor-length gown or one with a dramatic train.
Not ready to commit to wedding-day heels just yet? No worries! A neutral pair of comfortable heels, flats, or wedges will still give you a sense of how your dresses will look. Just make sure they’re easy to take on and off as you’ll likely have to swap in and out of them throughout your appointment.
Keep Accessories Light
When it comes to accessories, less is more for wedding dress shopping. Skip heavy jewelry, oversized handbags, and elaborate hats or scarves. These might only get in your way when you’re trying on dresses. A simple pair of stud earrings or a dainty necklace works perfectly without overshadowing the star of the show (your gown!).
If you’re planning to wear specific accessories with your wedding dress, such as a veil, family heirloom jewelry, or special shoes, feel free to bring those along. Just keep it to the essentials to stay organized.
Go for Natural Hair and Makeup
While it’s tempting to get fully dolled up, we recommend going for a polished yet natural look for your bridal appointment. A little mascara, some foundation, and a touch of blush will go a long way in helping you feel confident and put-together without distracting from the dresses you’re trying on.
If you have a hairstyle in mind for your big day (like a simple chignon or loose waves), you might want to mimic that style during your appointment. It will make it easier to envision how you’ll look when you say, “I do!”
Pro tip? Bring a hair tie or clip along as a backup. Some dresses will have higher necklines or intricate details that are easier to admire with your hair pulled back.
What to Avoid Wearing
Now that we’ve covered what you should wear, here are a few things to leave at home:
Heavy perfume: Wedding dress shopping is often done in close quarters, and strong scents can be overwhelming (or triggering!) for others.
Messy makeup: Avoid wearing bold lipsticks or heavy foundation that could transfer onto the gowns. Remember, these dresses are delicate!
Complicated clothing: Say no to difficult layers, tight bodysuits, or clothing that’s tricky to slip in and out of.
Bulky items: Large bags or totes can make the fitting area feel cramped. Stick to the essentials!
Make the Most of Your Appointment
Wedding dress shopping is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so keep it fun, lighthearted, and special! By dressing comfortably, choosing supportive undergarments, and bringing practical footwear, you’ll feel ready to tackle anything your bridal appointment throws your way (including falling in love with the perfect gown!).
If you’re ready to start wedding dress shopping, why not book an appointment at a boutique that treasures you and your unique style? Bridal Chateau offers over 500 gowns in all sizes, styles, and price points. At their Buffalo boutique, you’ll enjoy a joyful and inclusive shopping experience with expert stylists who treat you like a queen.
Happy shopping, bride-to-be! Your dream dress is closer than you think.
