When Should You Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress?

Finding your dream wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day - but knowing when to buy your wedding dress can make all the difference between a calm, enjoyable experience and a last-minute rush. 

At Veil & Bloom, we always recommend giving yourself plenty of time to explore styles, enjoy the process, and allow for alterations. Here’s a simple timeline to help you plan your bridal journey with confidence. 

12–18 Months Before Your Wedding: Start Browsing 

As soon as you have your wedding date and venue, it’s the perfect time to begin gathering inspiration. Browse Pinterest, bridal magazines, and designer collections to get a sense of the silhouettes, fabrics, and styles you love. 

Even if it feels early, this stage helps you understand what type of dress fits your vision and sets you up for a smooth shopping experience later on. 

9–12 Months Before: Book Your Bridal Appointments 

This is the ideal window to start trying on dresses. Most made-to-order gowns take around 16 weeks to be designed and delivered, so starting early ensures you’ll have a full selection of designers and styles available. 

Booking your appointment around this time also gives you space to revisit a favourite dress if needed, without feeling pressured to make a decision on the spot. 

7–9 Months Before: Say “Yes” to the Dress 

By this stage, you’ll have tried on a range of styles and likely narrowed it down to a few favourites. Now is the perfect time to make your final decision and say "yes" to your dress!  

Ordering during this window also means you can enjoy a relaxed timeline for the next steps - alterations, accessory styling, and any finishing touches. If you’re planning additional bridal looks (such as a second dress or reception outfit), this is also a good time to start exploring those. 

2–3 Months Before: Alterations Begin 

With your gown now safely in the boutique, it’s time for the final stage of your bridal journey - alterations. During this phase, your seamstress will refine the fit of your dress so it feels comfortable and looks flawless. 

By this point, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your wedding dress is almost ready to wear. With the finishing touches underway, you can simply look forward to the moment you step into your gown and everything comes together. 

Final Thoughts 

In short, starting your dress search around 12 months before your wedding is ideal - but it’s never too early to begin exploring. At Veil & Bloom, we’re here to make every moment of your bridal journey feel calm, personal, and joyful. 

If you’re newly engaged or ready to begin your search, we’d love to welcome you to the boutique.

Book your appointment today and start your dress journey with us.