Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress: Silhouettes, Prices and Fitting Tips
When should you start looking, which silhouette suits you and what does a wedding dress actually cost? The complete guide to finding your dream dress.
For many brides, the search for the wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of the preparation. With this guide you'll know exactly when to start, what to expect and how to approach the fittings.
When should you start looking?
Start 9 to 12 months before the wedding. A wedding dress is often made to order with a delivery time of 4 to 6 months. After that, two to three alteration sessions follow. Engaged later? Don't panic: many bridal shops have dresses in stock and there are wonderful sample sales.
The four main silhouettes
- A-line – fitted bodice, flowing skirt. Flatters almost every figure and is the most popular choice.
- Mermaid / fishtail – follows the body's lines to the knee, then flares out. Elegant and daring, but do test whether you can sit and dance in it.
- Empire – high waistline just below the bust. Comfortable, romantic and ideal during pregnancy.
- Ballgown – fitted bodice with a voluminous skirt. The classic princess feeling, stunning in large halls and churches.
What does a wedding dress cost?
At Dutch bridal shops you'll pay an average of €1,000 to €2,500 for a new dress. Also allow €150 to €400 for alterations. Want to save? Sample sales (30 to 70 percent off), second-hand platforms and rental have become fully-fledged alternatives — and sustainable ones, too.
Tips for the fitting appointment
- Bring at most two or three people whose opinion you truly trust
- Wear nude, seamless lingerie and bring heels of the right height
- Be open to advice: the dress that does nothing on the hanger is often the winner
- Don't take photos at the first fitting — look in the mirror, not at your screen
- Does it feel right? Then you're allowed to stop looking. The perfect dress doesn't exist, but your perfect dress does
Don't forget the accessories
Veil, shoes, jewellery and possibly a jacket or bolero complete the picture. Reserve €200 to €500 in the budget and try everything on together with the dress at least once.
