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First Time in a Bridal Salon??

Everything you need to know before you go to try on wedding gowns!

 The first time you walk into a bridal salon, it can be extremely overwhelming. Even if you have done your homework and have some ideas as to what you like, that style may not look good on your body! When you see rows and rows of white dresses, you can get a bit panicked! But relax, and follow these simple tips to having a successful appointment at the bridal shop!

 Do Some Homework
Before you head to the salon, look online and decide which styles and fabrics appeal to you. Even if you have never set foot in a bridal shop, you can still look at a few photos and decide what type of  look(s) catch your eye. You can either print photos, write down styles, or just get to know which fabrics you like. Here is a bit of background on dress styles and fabric!

 Vocabulary you should know:
A-line: shaped like an "A", not too "poofy" but still away from the body rather than skin-tight. This is also an example of a sweetheart neckline and a natural waist.
Fit and Flare: tight until about the knee or mid thigh, gives the body an hourglass shape. This would also be an example of a chantilly lace fabric. 
Ballgown: your typical princess dress. Tight in the bust, with a full skirt. Skirts like this are usually tulle (a softer netting-like fabric) or crinoline (a stiffer netting-like fabric, usually under the skirt). The top of the dress is satin with a sweetheart neckline. The belt on this dress is at the model's natural waist.
Sheath: a simple, shapeless skirt that falls naturally against the body. This type of dress is not tight in the legs like a fit and flare. This dress has cap sleeves and an empire waist (right under your breasts). The fabric is charmeuse with embroidered lace. 
Mermaid: this is a more dramatic form of the fit and flare. A mermaid dress is tight until the knee or mid calf. The top of this dress is lace, while the bottom is tulle. This is a modified sweetheart neckline which is not as defined as the previous examples. 
Chiffon: this fabric is light and airy, great for a hot day. Falls freely and has a Grecian feel. 
Ruching: the way the fabric is gathered or pleated. In this case, all of the lines meet at the waist which defines a waist line and gives the body shape. 
Now that you know the basics, you can go in with a bit of an idea of what you like. If you have never shopped before, I would highly recommend trying one of everything. I can't even tell you how many times I have worked with a bride who says "I hate lace and I hate fit and flare", but once the dress is on, it looks amazing on her body and she ends up with a lace fit and flare dress! You really have to try everything, then narrow it down from there. Your bridal consultant can also recommend styles and fabrics based on your body type and your venue. Don't be afraid! You are there to explore and experiment. 

 And never EVER feel pressured to buy right away! Go home, sleep on it, and if you can't stop thinking about a certain dress...it's most likely THE ONE!

 Good Luck and Happy Shopping!
For questions, tips, and tricks, email me at marissadyson@gmail.com

 COMMENT: What was your dress buying experience like?????

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