15 Questions to Ask Before Buying Your Wedding Dress

Before you say “yes” to the dress, pause for a reality check. Wedding dress shopping is magical, yes, but it’s also a big investment of time, money, and emotions. With supply chain delays, tariffs, and custom sizing to consider, it’s more important than ever to ask the right questions before committing to your gown.

To help you navigate the process, here are 15 must-ask questions every bride should consider before buying her wedding dress.

Picture wearing a heavy satin ballgown at a beachfront ceremony in July—romantic, sure, but you’ll melt in minutes. On the flip side, a lightweight chiffon slip dress may not keep you warm at a December wedding.

You’ll need to walk, sit, hug, and (let’s be real) dance. If your gown restricts you from lifting your arms or taking more than a tiny step, you may regret it halfway through the night.

Ask yourself: Will this gown let me enjoy my wedding day without feeling restricted?

Some dresses need a little extra support, like a structured bra, shapewear, or a petticoat. Others may call for statement jewelry, a dramatic veil, or specialty shoes. Accessories can add hundreds to your total spend, so budget accordingly.

Here’s the truth: even if your dress is custom made to your measurements, it won’t arrive perfectly tailored. Alterations are non-negotiable.

Ask the salon:

Plan for 2–3 rounds of fittings at a minimum.

Pre-pandemic, dresses typically took 4–6 months. Now, with tariffs, material shortages, and shipping delays, gowns can take 9–12 months (sometimes longer!).

Before you put down a deposit, check reviews, confirm their policies in writing, and see how they handle customer service. Reputable salons will be transparent about timelines, fees, and expectations.

Most made-to-order gowns are final sale with no cancellations or returns since they’re custom-made to your size. If you’re not 100% sure, ask about off-the-rack options. These sometimes have more flexible return policies.

If your gown requires major adjustments (like adding sleeves or changing the neckline), expect more fittings. For most brides, plan on 2–3. Make sure you book fittings early and leave plenty of time between the last one and your wedding date.

Most salons require a 50–60% deposit when you order your gown, with the remaining balance due when it arrives. Make sure you understand the payment timeline and cancellation rules.

Many designers allow small changes like adding straps, altering the train length, or swapping out buttons. Others may be more limited. Ask before you fall in love with a vision that isn’t possible.

Your dress should feel like you, but it should also make sense with the vibe of the day. A dramatic cathedral train may overwhelm a rustic barn, while a sleek slip dress may feel underwhelming in a grand ballroom.

If your gown has a train, you’ll need a bustle to lift it for the reception. Bustles vary in complexity (and cost), so talk to your seamstress about which option works best for your gown’s silhouette.

Some fabrics (like shiny satin or heavily beaded gowns) can reflect light differently in photos. Don’t be shy about snapping a few quick iPhone pics in the salon. You’ll be surprised how different a dress can look in photos compared to the mirror.

Sample sales, clearance events, and designer trunk shows can save you serious money. If you’re not in a rush, ask your salon about upcoming promotions before committing.

Between the dress, alterations, accessories, appointment fees, taxes, and shipping, your gown may cost more than the price tag suggests. Get a full breakdown so you can budget realistically.

Wedding dress shopping should feel fun and exciting, not stressful. By asking these questions, you’ll not only set realistic expectations but also avoid surprise costs and last-minute panic.

Remember: gowns now take up to a year to arrive, alterations are always necessary, and returns are rare. Give yourself time, ask all the questions, and trust your gut when you find the one that makes you feel like a bride.

Your dress is the centerpiece of your wedding day look, and the right choice will make you feel confident, comfortable, and totally unforgettable.