One of the most exciting parts of wedding planning is shopping for the perfect dress. However, with so many details to consider and decisions to make, it can be overwhelming to know when to start looking for your dream gown. Many brides wonder if 6 months before the wedding is too late to buy a dress, and the answer is not a simple one.
According to wedding experts, the ideal time to start shopping for a wedding dress is 9-12 months before the big day. This allows for plenty of time to browse different styles, try on dresses, and make alterations. However, life doesn’t always go according to plan, and sometimes brides find themselves with less time than they anticipated. So, is 6 months before the wedding too late to buy a dress?
While it may not be the ideal timeframe, 6 months before the wedding is still enough time to find and purchase a beautiful wedding dress. It’s important to keep in mind that some dresses can take up to 6 months to arrive after they are ordered, so it’s best to start shopping as soon as possible. With some careful planning and a bit of luck, you can still find the perfect dress for your special day, even if you’re working with a tight timeline.
In This Article
Factors to Consider
Choosing the perfect wedding dress is one of the most important decisions for any bride-to-be. But what if you’re running out of time? Is 6 months before the wedding too late to buy a dress? Here are some factors to consider when making this decision.
Wedding Dress Shopping Timeline
Wedding dress shopping can take a significant amount of time. It’s important to consider how long it will take to find the perfect dress, have it altered, and shipped to you. If you’re shopping six months before your wedding, you’ll need to factor in the time it will take to find the dress, which can take several weeks or even months. Once you’ve found the dress, you’ll need to allow time for alterations, which can take several weeks. Finally, you’ll need to consider shipping times, which can vary depending on the dress and the retailer.
Alterations Process
Most wedding dresses require some alterations to ensure a perfect fit. If you’re shopping six months before your wedding, you’ll need to make sure you have enough time for alterations. It’s important to find a reputable tailor who specializes in wedding dresses and can provide a quick turnaround time. Keep in mind that alterations can be expensive, so you’ll need to factor this into your budget.
Availability of Desired Dress Style and Size
Another factor to consider is the availability of the dress style and size you want. Some dresses may need to be ordered in advance, which can take several weeks or even months. If you have your heart set on a particular dress, it’s important to check with the retailer to make sure it will be available in your size and color. If the dress is not available, you may need to consider other options.
Overall, shopping for a wedding dress six months before your wedding can be risky, but it’s not necessarily too late. It’s important to consider all the factors and make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.
Options for Last-Minute Shoppers
Off-the-Rack Dresses
If you’re short on time and need a dress quickly, off-the-rack dresses are a great option. These dresses are already made and available for purchase in-store or online. You can visit a bridal boutique or department store and try on dresses to find one that fits you perfectly. Off-the-rack dresses are usually less expensive than custom-made dresses, and you can take them home with you the same day.
Rush Order Dresses
If you have a little more time, you can order a rush order dress. These dresses are made to order and can be delivered in a shorter timeframe than normal. However, they may come with an additional fee. Rush order dresses are a good option if you want a dress that is personalized to your preferences, but you don’t have the luxury of waiting several months for it to be made.
Sample Sale Dresses
Sample sales are a great opportunity to snag a designer dress at a discounted price. Bridal boutiques often hold sample sales to make room for new inventory, and you can find dresses that are in excellent condition. Sample sale dresses are typically off-the-rack dresses that have been used for display or tried on by other brides. You may need to make some alterations to get the dress to fit perfectly, but you can save a lot of money by purchasing a sample sale dress.
Tips for Successful Last-Minute Dress Shopping
Be Open-Minded
When shopping for a wedding dress on a tight timeline, it’s important to be open-minded about the style and design of your dress. While you may have envisioned a specific style or silhouette, it’s important to try on a variety of dresses to find the perfect fit. Keep in mind that some styles may not be available in your size or may not be able to be altered in time for your wedding day. So, be open to trying on different styles and designs.
Bring a Trusted Companion
Having a trusted companion with you during your last-minute dress shopping can be incredibly helpful. They can offer a second opinion and provide support and encouragement as you make your decision. Choose someone who knows your style and preferences and who will be honest with you about how the dress looks on you.
Know Your Budget
Before you start shopping, it’s important to know your budget. Last-minute dress shopping can be more expensive, so it’s important to have a clear idea of how much you can spend. Stick to your budget and don’t be tempted to overspend, as this can cause unnecessary stress and financial strain.
Be Prepared to Purchase on the Spot
Last-minute dress shopping often means purchasing a dress on the spot. Be prepared to make a decision quickly, as dresses may sell out or may not be available for long. Make sure you are comfortable with your decision and that the dress fits well.
By following these tips, you can successfully find a beautiful wedding dress even on a tight timeline. Remember to be open-minded, bring a trusted companion, know your budget, and be prepared to purchase on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about wedding dress shopping:
Is 6 months before the wedding too late to buy a dress?
It depends on the type of dress you want. If you’re looking for a made-to-order dress, it’s cutting it close. Most made-to-order dresses take 6-9 months to create, so if you want a custom gown, it’s best to start shopping at least 10 months before your wedding day. However, if you’re open to buying a dress off the rack or from a sample sale, 4-6 months is a reasonable amount of time to find your dream dress.
When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?
The ideal time to start shopping for your wedding dress is 12-18 months before your wedding day. This gives you plenty of time to find the perfect dress, have it altered, and make any necessary changes. However, if you’re short on time, don’t worry! You can still find a beautiful dress with less time. Just be prepared to make quick decisions and possibly pay rush fees.
How many fittings do I need?
The number of fittings you need depends on the type of dress you choose and how well it fits you initially. On average, most brides have 2-3 fittings to ensure the dress fits perfectly. However, if you have a more complex dress or need significant alterations, you may need more fittings. Check out our guide on when it’s too late to buy a dress.
What should I bring to my dress appointment?
It’s a good idea to bring a strapless bra, shoes with a similar heel height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day, and any accessories you plan to wear, such as a veil or jewelry. It’s also helpful to bring pictures of dresses you like or a Pinterest board to show the consultant your style preferences. Learn more about the ideal time to buy a wedding dress.
