When To Buy Your Wedding Dress, And Why A Stylist Can Make All The Difference
Finding your dream wedding dress can be one of the most magical parts of wedding planning. The difficulty can be in knowing when to start looking. This can feel overwhelming. Do you start shopping right after the engagement? Wait until you’ve booked the venue? And what if you’re planning a small and short engagement?
At StyldLife, our expert virtual stylists are here to help brides every step of the way. Whether you’re narrowing down silhouettes or finalizing the perfect look, our stylists are here for you. Regardless of the type of dress you’re looking for, time is key, and we’ve got the ultimate guide!
9-12 Months Out: The Dress Discovery Phase
Start browsing, dreaming, and consulting with a StyldLife bridal stylist around 9 to 12 months before your big day. While that may sound early, most designer gowns take 6 to 9 months to produce, and that doesn’t include shipping or alterations.
Working With A StyldLife Stylist Virtually At The Stage Allows You To:
Explore flattering silhouettes based on your body type
Get expert suggestions tailored to your venue and vision
Curate inspiration boards or mood boards
Discover designers that align with your style and budget
Save time narrowing down options before you book try-ons
Virtual styling gives you clarity before you ever step into a bridal boutique.
8-10 Months Out: Say Yes with Confidence
Once you’ve had time to explore and visualize your look, it’s time to make your final dress decision, ideally 8 to 10 months before your wedding. This will give your gown plenty of time to be. Made, delivered, and tailored without the rush. Our stylists are here to:
Help you compare fit, fabric, and overall feel
Review photos and videos from boutique visits
Guide you when choosing veils, accessories, and shoes to complete the look
It’ll be like having a trusted BFF in your pocket.
2-3 Months Out: Time for Alterations
Once your dress has arrived, it’s time for a fitting! Most brides need 2-3 rounds of fittings to ensure their gown fits like a glove. Thieve fittings start around 2-3 months before your wedding.
Here’s what you can expect from your StyldLife stylist:
Walk-through of what happens during a normal fitting
Help you spot tailoring issues early
Offer input for accessories
Help you prep for. Your dress rehearsal or bridal portraits
On a Tight Timeline? Don’t Worry
Getting married sooner? StyldLife works with brides on every timeline, even those planning a wedding just a few months away.
We’ll help you:
Find a beautiful off-the-rack option
Shop trusted bridal boutiques with quick shipping
Access designer sample sales and trunk shows
Pull together a full bridal look fast (including gowns, shoes, accessories, and more!
Let Us Help You Curate Your Dream Look
Your wedding dress is one of the most personal style decisions you will ever make, but you don’t have to do it. alone. With StyldLife’s virtual stylists, you’ll get expert advice, honest feedback, and curated guidance every step of the way. Because every bride deserves to. Feel her most confident to feel her most confident and radiant self, from “Yes!” to “I do”.