Wedding dress shopping can be both exciting and stressful, and finding the perfect gown is crucial. But Is 15 Months Too Soon to Buy a Wedding Dress? While many experts advise starting the process at least a year before the big day, could starting even earlier cause its own set of issues? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of shopping for your wedding dress 15 months ahead of time.
“The optimal time to purchase a wedding dress is generally between 9 to 12 months before the wedding,” says renowned bridal stylist Jessica Mulroney. With this in mind, you might wonder if 15 months is too far in advance. One concern is that fashion trends and personal style can evolve over time, which may affect your choice of gown. In this post, we will discuss the potential pitfalls and benefits of buying a wedding dress 15 months prior to your special day.
Our comprehensive wedding dress handbook covers everything you need to know about shopping for your dream gown. And, according to recent surveys, a staggering 60% of brides-to-be start shopping for their dress 12 months or more before the wedding. So, rest assured that you’re not alone in your early search. Dive into this article to find the answers to your concerns and make an informed decision on when to buy your wedding dress.
In This Article
Is 15 Months Too Soon to Buy a Wedding Dress?
No, you can get a great wedding dress ordering 15 months in advance. That said, you can also comfortably order a dress 9-12 months before your wedding, so you may want to consider waiting to make sure you’ve considered everything (and to minimize alterations).
Factors to Consider
Wedding Date
When deciding whether 15 months is too soon to buy a wedding dress, the first factor to consider is your wedding date. If you have a specific date in mind and have already booked your venue, it’s never too early to start looking for a dress. However, if your wedding date is still flexible or far in the future, it may be best to wait a bit longer before making a purchase. Keep in mind that some dresses can take several months to arrive after they are ordered, so it’s important to factor in enough time for alterations and fittings as well.
Budget
Another important factor to consider when deciding whether to buy a wedding dress 15 months in advance is your budget. If you have a strict budget for your wedding, it may be best to wait until closer to your wedding date to purchase a dress. This way, you can ensure that you have enough funds set aside for other wedding expenses and can avoid overspending on your dress.
Body Changes
It’s also important to consider any potential body changes that may occur between the time you purchase your dress and your wedding day. If you are planning to lose weight or gain muscle, it may be best to wait until closer to your wedding date to purchase a dress. This way, you can ensure that your dress fits perfectly on your big day.
Style Trends
Finally, it’s important to consider current style trends when deciding whether to purchase a wedding dress 15 months in advance. While classic styles are always in fashion, trends can change quickly in the bridal industry. If you are set on a specific style that may not be in fashion in 15 months, it may be best to wait until closer to your wedding date to purchase a dress.
Pros of Buying Early
Buying a wedding dress is a significant decision, and many brides-to-be are uncertain about when to start shopping. While some may think that 15 months is too early to buy a wedding dress, there are several advantages to purchasing it well in advance. Here are some of the pros of buying early:
- More Time for Customization: If you order your dress early, you will have more time to customize it to your liking. You can work with a seamstress to add or remove details, change the neckline, or add sleeves. This allows you to create a one-of-a-kind dress that perfectly suits your style and personality.
- Greater Selection: Wedding dress designers typically release their new collections about a year in advance. By shopping early, you will have access to the latest styles and trends before they sell out or become unavailable. You will also have a wider selection to choose from, including dresses that may need to be ordered from overseas.
- Less Stress: Planning a wedding can be stressful, and buying your dress early can help alleviate some of that stress. You will have one less thing to worry about, and you can focus on other aspects of your wedding planning.
Overall, buying a wedding dress 15 months in advance may seem too early for some, but it can be a smart decision for those who want a customized dress, a wide selection, and less stress during the wedding planning process.
Cons of Buying Early
While it may be tempting to start wedding dress shopping as soon as possible, there are some potential downsides to buying your dress too early.
1. Limited Styles
If you start shopping for your wedding dress more than a year in advance, you may find that the styles and trends have changed by the time your wedding day arrives. This means that the dress you fell in love with may no longer be in style, or you may have missed out on newer styles that you would have preferred.
2. Changes in Body Shape
It’s not uncommon for brides to experience changes in their body shape leading up to their wedding day. This can be due to weight loss, weight gain, or even pregnancy. If you purchase your dress too early, it may not fit as well as you had hoped by the time your wedding day arrives.
3. Dress Regret
Buying your wedding dress too early can lead to “dress regret,” which is the feeling of disappointment or regret after purchasing a dress. This can happen if you find a dress you like better later on or if your style preferences change over time.
4. Storage and Preservation
If you purchase your wedding dress too early, you’ll need to find a safe and secure place to store it until your wedding day. This can be a challenge, especially if you’re moving or don’t have a lot of storage space. Additionally, the longer your dress is stored, the greater the risk of damage or discoloration.
5. Budget Constraints
If you purchase your wedding dress too early, you may find that your budget has changed by the time your wedding day arrives. This can be due to unexpected expenses or changes in your financial situation. If you’ve already purchased your dress, you may be forced to make sacrifices in other areas of your wedding budget to accommodate the cost of the dress.
Alternatives to Buying Early
While some brides may be tempted to purchase their wedding dress 15 months or more in advance, there are alternatives to consider. Here are a few:
- Borrow or Rent: Consider borrowing or renting a wedding dress instead of purchasing one early. This option can be more affordable and allow you to wear a designer dress for a fraction of the cost.
- Wait for Sales: Many bridal shops have sales throughout the year, so waiting for a sale can save you money on your dream dress. Keep an eye out for end-of-season sales or holiday sales.
- Customize a Dress: If you have a specific vision for your wedding dress, consider customizing a dress instead of purchasing one early. This option can be more expensive, but it allows you to create a one-of-a-kind dress that fits your style and personality.
Another alternative is to simply wait until closer to the wedding date to purchase your dress. This allows you to take your time and enjoy the wedding planning process without feeling rushed or stressed about finding the perfect dress.
Ultimately, the decision to buy a wedding dress early or wait is a personal one. Consider your budget, timeline, and wedding vision before making a decision. Remember, there are alternatives to buying early that can save you money and allow you to create a unique look for your special day.
Conclusion
When it comes to buying a wedding dress, the timing can be a tricky thing. Some brides prefer to get it out of the way as soon as possible, while others like to wait until the last minute. But is 15 months too soon to buy a wedding dress?
Based on our research, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It ultimately depends on your personal preference and wedding timeline. However, most experts recommend purchasing your wedding dress between 8 and 10 months before the wedding, assuming your engagement period is around 14 months.
If you do decide to purchase your wedding dress 15 months before your wedding, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you have a secure place to store it until the big day. Second, be aware that alterations may be necessary closer to the wedding, so be prepared to make additional appointments with your seamstress or tailor.
Ultimately, the decision of when to buy your wedding dress is up to you. Just remember to take your wedding timeline and personal preferences into account, and don’t forget to enjoy the process!
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people ask about buying a wedding dress 15 months before the wedding:
Is 15 months too soon to buy a wedding dress?
It depends on your personality and preferences. If you are a planner and want to have everything ready well in advance, then 15 months may be just the right time to start shopping for your wedding dress. However, if you are more spontaneous and want to wait until closer to the wedding day to make your decision, then you may want to consider waiting a bit longer. Read about some early shopping experiences for more insights.
When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?
Most experts recommend starting to shop for your wedding dress about 9-12 months before the wedding. This gives you plenty of time to find the perfect dress, have it ordered or made, and make any necessary alterations. However, if you have a specific dress in mind or want a custom-made gown, you may want to start shopping earlier to ensure you have enough time to get everything done. Check out these 10-month wedding dress shopping tips for guidance.
What are some things to consider when buying a wedding dress 15 months before the wedding?
- Wedding theme and venue: Consider the style and formality of your wedding when choosing a dress.
- Budget: Make sure you have a clear idea of how much you want to spend on your dress.
- Body shape: Choose a dress that flatters your body type and makes you feel confident and beautiful.
- Alterations: Keep in mind that alterations may be necessary, so factor in the cost and time for these.
Read about 18-month wedding dress shopping experiences for more information.
What are the benefits of buying a wedding dress early?
Buying a wedding dress early can give you peace of mind and reduce stress as the wedding day approaches. It also allows you to take your time and find the perfect dress without feeling rushed or pressured. Additionally, buying a dress early may give you more options and allow you to take advantage of sales or discounts. If you’re worried about not having enough time, explore these last-minute bridal gown options for inspiration.
