Fashion

What to Wear Wedding Dress Shopping (Bride, Bridesmaids & Guests)

by Kellee Khalil 06 Sep 2024 •8 min read

Wedding dress shopping is a thrilling milestone in the journey to your big day. Knowing what to wear wedding dress shopping can make the experience more enjoyable and productive. Whether you're the bride-to-be, a supportive bridesmaid, or an honored guest, your outfit choice matters. This guide will help you navigate the dos and don'ts of dressing for this special occasion.

From comfortable shoes to the right undergarments, every detail of your attire can impact your bridal appointment. We'll explore the ideal outfits for each person involved in the dress shopping process, ensuring everyone is prepared for a successful and memorable experience.

Choosing the perfect wedding gown is a significant decision, and feeling confident and comfortable during your appointments can make all the difference. By following our advice on what to wear and bring, you'll be well-equipped to focus on finding that dream dress without any wardrobe-related distractions.

So, whether you're heading to a high-end bridal boutique or a local wedding shop, let's dive into the essential tips for dressing appropriately for this exciting part of wedding planning. With the right preparation, you'll be ready to say "yes" to the dress in style!

What to wear wedding dress shopping

Wedding dress shopping is an exciting and pivotal part of wedding planning. It's a moment when the bride's vision for her special day starts to take shape. Whether you're the bride-to-be, a supportive bridesmaid, or an honored guest, knowing what to wear to a bridal appointment can significantly enhance the experience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll run through what each person should wear to ensure a smooth and enjoyable wedding dress shopping adventure.

What to wear to bridal dress shopping as the bride

As the bride, your wedding dress shopping outfit deserves careful consideration. When deciding what to wear to wedding dress shopping, prioritize comfort and practicality. The goal is to choose clothing that allows you to easily try on multiple wedding dresses without hassle.

Opt for a simple, button-up shirt or a loose-fitting dress that's easy to remove. This will help you slip in and out of gowns without messing up your hair or makeup. Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or accessories that might snag on delicate fabrics or interfere with the silhouette of the dresses you'll be trying on.

Shoes are another crucial element of your wedding dress shopping outfit. Bring a pair of heels similar in height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will give you a realistic idea of how each gown's length will look and feel. However, don't forget to pack a pair of comfortable flats as well. Wedding dress shopping often involves hours of standing and walking, so you'll appreciate having a more comfortable option when you're not modeling a specific dress.

Remember, the focus should be on the wedding dresses, not your outfit. Keep it simple, comfortable, and neutral to ensure that each gown you try on can shine without distraction.

What undergarments to wear wedding dress shopping

Knowing what to wear to try on wedding dresses extends beyond your outer layers. The right undergarments can make a significant difference in how a wedding gown looks and feels on your body.

For underwear, opt for nude, seamless styles. These will be virtually invisible under most wedding dresses, allowing you to focus on the gown's silhouette without distractions. Avoid bold colors or patterns that might show through lighter fabrics.

When it comes to bras, it's best to come prepared with a few options:

A strapless bra in a neutral tone
A nude, low-back bra for dresses with lower cut backs
A bra with convertible straps to accommodate various necklines

It's worth noting that many wedding dresses come with built-in support, so you might not need a bra at all. However, having these options on hand will help you see how different styles flatter your figure and provide the support you need.

If you're considering wearing shapewear on your wedding day, bring it along to your dress appointments. This will give you a more accurate picture of how your chosen gown will look on the big day.

What to wear wedding dress shopping as a guest

When considering who goes wedding dress shopping with the bride, it's common for close friends, family members, or bridesmaids to be invited.

If you've been invited to accompany the bride on her quest for the perfect gown, your wedding dress shopping outfit should be carefully considered too. The focus should always be on the bride, so avoid wearing anything that might steal attention or clash with the bridal gowns.

Opt for neat, casual attire that's comfortable yet presentable. A nice blouse paired with slacks or a casual dress works well. Avoid wearing all white, as this color is typically reserved for the bride. Also, steer clear of overly flashy or revealing outfits that might distract from the bride's experience.

Comfort is key, as wedding dress shopping can often take several hours. Choose shoes that you can stand and walk in for extended periods. Remember, you may be called upon to help the bride in and out of dresses or to fetch accessories, so your outfit should allow for easy movement.

What to Wear Wedding Dress Shopping as a Bridesmaid

Bridesmaids should follow similar guidelines when considering what to wear for wedding dress shopping. Your outfit should be comfortable and practical, allowing you to assist the bride as needed. A simple dress or a combination of a nice top and pants works well.

Choose clothes that are easy to change in and out of, as you may be trying on bridesmaid dresses alongside the bride's gown shopping. Wear minimal makeup to avoid the risk of staining the wedding dresses, and bring a hair tie to keep your hair out of the way when helping the bride with fittings.

Remember, your role is to support the bride and offer honest, constructive feedback. Your outfit should reflect this supportive role – stylish yet understated, allowing the bride and the wedding gowns to remain the center of attention.

What should the mother of the bride wear wedding dress shopping?

For the mother of the bride, deciding what to wear to a bridal appointment is about striking a balance between comfort and elegance. This is a special moment for both you and your daughter, so you'll want to look nice while still being practical.

A stylish blouse paired with dress pants or a casual dress is an excellent choice. Opt for outfits in soft, neutral colors that won't clash with the white wedding gowns. Remember, you may be on your feet for hours, moving between the dressing room and the viewing area, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Bring a light jacket or cardigan, as bridal shops can sometimes be cool. Also, consider wearing waterproof makeup – happy tears are common during these emotional appointments!

What to bring wedding dress shopping

Beyond your carefully chosen outfit, there are several items you should consider bringing to the bridal shop. Here are some wedding dress shopping tips for what to bring:

Camera (if allowed by the boutique): Many shops prohibit photos, but if it's permitted, you'll want to document the experience.
Notebook: Jot down your thoughts about each dress, including style numbers and designer names.
Water and snacks: Wedding dress shopping can be tiring, so stay hydrated and energized.
Any inspiration photos: Bring images of styles you like to give the consultant an idea of your preferences.
A folder for paperwork: You'll likely receive information about dresses, alteration services, and policies.

For what to bring wedding dress shopping as a guest, consider:

A positive attitude: Your support and enthusiasm can make the experience more enjoyable for the bride.
Constructive feedback: Be prepared to offer honest, kind opinions when asked.
Tissues: For those inevitable emotional moments!

For those wondering how to make wedding dress shopping special for the bride, consider bringing a small gift or planning a celebratory lunch after the appointment to mark the occasion

Remember, the goal of wedding dress shopping is to find the perfect gown for the bride's special day. Whether you're the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, wearing comfortable, appropriate attire will ensure a positive experience at the bridal boutique.

FAQs

Do you have to pay to try on wedding dresses?

Typically, you don't have to pay to try on wedding dresses at most bridal shops. However, some high-end boutiques may require a deposit or charge a try-on fee. It's always best to check the boutique's policy regarding fees when booking your appointment for wedding dress shopping.

Should I wear shapewear to try on wedding dresses?

Wearing shapewear when trying on wedding dresses is a personal choice. If you plan to wear shapewear on your wedding day, it's helpful to wear it while dress shopping. This allows you to see how the dresses will look with your intended undergarments, but it's not mandatory.

Do you wear a bra wedding dress shopping?

It's generally recommended to wear a bra when wedding dress shopping. Bringing different bra styles, including a strapless option, can be helpful. However, many wedding dresses have built-in support, so you might not need a bra. Discuss your preferences with your bridal consultant during the appointment.

Do wedding dresses have built in bras?

Many wedding dresses do have built-in bras or support. However, not all gowns come with this feature. If built-in support is important to you, ask your bridal consultant about dresses with this option. Some shops also offer the possibility of adding support to a dress you love.

Remember, wedding dress shopping is a memorable part of the wedding planning process. By knowing what to wear and what to bring, you can ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience that brings you one step closer to your perfect wedding. Happy shopping!

About The Author

Kellee Khalil is the Founder & CEO of Loverly. She lives in upstate NY with her fiancé and two dogs.

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