First Time Dress Shopping!

Dress shopping is exciting! Congratulations! Definitely try on at least one of each shape type, just to get an idea of what you like and what you don't. Be open to trying on anything, even if you think you won't like it - dresses often look differently on a hanger than they do on a person. Ask whether the dress can be customized: if you want different straps, or a different shape, or a different neckline, etc. Some dresses can be ordered with customizations (though often at an additional cost). Wear underwear that is nude colored. Bright or dark colors may be able to be seen through some of the dresses. Take pictures of each dress you like, and from multiple angles, so you can look through them later. If you have any inspiration photos of styles you like (or even examples of what you don't like), bring those with to show the consultant. If you don't like a particular dress that you try on, don't be afraid to say so. Have fun, and happy dress shopping!

View Quoted Comment This is all so helpful! Thank you!

Like Lisa said, take a ton of photos so you can look back later.



Maybe do you hair nicely that day to get an idea of a more polished look.

Don’t buy a dress right away. A lot of people have “dress regret” and they wish they could return the dress but they can’t because of return policies. David’s bridal usually has dresses in stock (not made to order) so you can just order the dress online when a sale hits.


Good luck and have fun!

Try to let the stylist which part of the dress you don’t like. Pattern of lace, too much chest showing, too fitted here etc. I went to 3 stores and prob 40 dresses before I found one I just felt right in. Some people know after 1 dress. Recommend trying on at least 1 or 2 of each of the main styles with enough of a style difference to see if it’s the fit or particular dresses design. Good luck.

View Quoted Comment Thank you for the advice!

View Quoted Comment Thank you! I definitely plan to try on styles I don’t think I’ll like in case I end up actually liking it on myself. I know everyone says you might end up getting something totally different from what you thought you’d like!

Congrats! This is one of the most exciting parts! Here are some things I found helpful:


1. Do your hair and makeup before going. It helps to see yourself in the dresses at least partially “done-up”
2. This might sound weird, but don’t wear a bra or only do just the nipple covers. I started out at my first few shopping sessions wearing the stick on cups, but found that it just got in the way of seeing the different dresses on me. Go without one if you have the courage (I found it ended up not being as vulnerable or scary but some women can’t get past that, so I get it) and then figure out the bra situation *later* once you have your dress.
3. Ask the stylist if she can take pictures of you in the dresses since you are going alone.
4. Try on styles you think you don’t want right now at least once so you can either confirm “yeah that’s definitely not for me” or “wow I didn’t think I’d like this but I actually do!”
5. Don’t put pressure on yourself by wanting to find “the dress” at your first appointment. It does not always happen for everyone, and it’s not a bad thing if you need to go in another time or try a different store. I went to SEVEN stores and then re-visited one of them again before I decided on “the dress” 😂

A lot of brides buy a dress with a low back or low sides and then wonder what kind of undergarments/spanx they can wear without them showing. I know they sell stuff that’s “low” but I personally would want to be all tucked in with high waisted spanx. If that’s you, then a low back would not work for high waisted spnx. Good luck and have fun!