Shopping for a wedding dress can be of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. However, it can also be one of the most stressful decisions to make. One of the most common questions brides-to-be ask is whether it’s too late to buy a wedding dress, especially if they only have 7 months or less until their big day.
While it’s ideal to start shopping for your wedding dress at least a year in advance, life doesn’t always go as planned. Sometimes, you may not have the luxury of time to shop for your dream wedding dress. But is 7 months too late to buy a wedding dress? The answer is, it depends.
The timeline for buying a wedding dress depends on various factors, such as the type of dress you want, the designer, and the alterations required. In general, it’s recommended to start shopping for your wedding dress at least 8-10 months before your wedding day to allow enough time for the dress to arrive and for alterations to be made. However, if you’re short on time, don’t panic. There are still options available to you.
In This Article
Wedding Dress Timeline
Ideal Timeframe to Buy a Wedding Dress
When it comes to buying a wedding dress, timing is everything. While some brides may be able to find their dream dress in just a few weeks, others may need several months to find the perfect gown. Here is a general timeline to consider when shopping for your wedding dress:
| Timeframe | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 12-18 months before the wedding | Start looking for dresses and book appointments at bridal shops |
| 8-10 months before the wedding | Purchase your wedding dress |
| 6-8 months before the wedding | Schedule alterations, fittings, and accessories appointments |
It is important to keep in mind that some dress designers may have a longer lead time than others. So, it is always best to check with the bridal shop or designer to see how long it will take for the dress to be made and shipped.
Factors That Affect the Wedding Dress Timeline
While the above timeline is a good guideline, there are several factors that can affect the wedding dress timeline:
- The style of the dress: Some dress styles may take longer to make than others.
- The designer: Different designers may have different lead times.
- The time of year: Bridal shops may be busier during peak wedding season, which could affect the timeline.
- The level of customization: If you are having a dress custom-made, it may take longer to make and fit.
It is always best to discuss these factors with your bridal shop or dress designer to get a better idea of how long it will take to get your dress.
Is 7 Months Too Late?
Pros of Buying a Wedding Dress 7 Months Before the Wedding
While it’s generally recommended to start shopping for a wedding dress at least 9-12 months before the wedding day, 7 months can still be a reasonable amount of time to find the perfect dress. Here are some pros of buying a wedding dress 7 months before the wedding:
- You have a clearer idea of your wedding theme and style, which can make dress shopping easier and more focused.
- You have plenty of time to shop around and try on different dresses, without feeling rushed or pressured to make a decision.
- You may be able to take advantage of off-season sales or sample sales, which can save you money on your dress.
Cons of Buying a Wedding Dress 7 Months Before the Wedding
While there are some advantages to buying a wedding dress 7 months before the wedding, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:
- If you’re a bride who likes to stay up-to-date with the latest wedding dress trends, buying a dress 7 months before the wedding may limit your options, as new collections may not be released yet.
- If you plan on losing weight or making significant changes to your body before the wedding, buying a dress 7 months in advance may not give you enough time for alterations and fittings.
- If you’re a bride who is indecisive or tends to change her mind frequently, waiting until 7 months before the wedding to start dress shopping may not leave you enough time to find the perfect dress and make any necessary alterations.
Ultimately, whether 7 months is too late to buy a wedding dress depends on your personal preferences, wedding timeline, and budget. It’s always a good idea to start shopping for your dress as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time to find the perfect one, but if you’re short on time, 7 months can still be a viable option.
Alternatives to Buying a Wedding Dress
Renting a Wedding Dress
If you’re worried that 7 months is too late to buy a wedding dress, renting a dress is a great alternative. Renting a wedding dress can be a more affordable option, and it allows you to wear a designer dress without the designer price tag. Many bridal shops offer rental options, and there are also online rental services that make the process easy and convenient.
When renting a wedding dress, make sure to read the rental agreement carefully. You’ll want to know the rental period, the return policy, and any fees or penalties for damages. You’ll also want to make sure the dress fits well and is comfortable to wear, so consider scheduling a fitting appointment before renting.
Buying a Pre-Owned Wedding Dress
If you’re looking for a more sustainable option, buying a pre-owned wedding dress is a great choice. Pre-owned dresses are often in excellent condition and can be significantly less expensive than buying a new dress. There are many online marketplaces and consignment shops that specialize in pre-owned wedding dresses.
When buying a pre-owned wedding dress, it’s important to ask questions and do your research. Make sure you know the dress’s history, including any alterations or repairs that have been made. You’ll also want to make sure the dress is authentic and matches the seller’s description. Consider working with a reputable seller or consignment shop to ensure a smooth and secure transaction.
Final Verdict
When it comes to buying a wedding dress, it’s important to start your search early to ensure you have enough time to find the perfect dress and make any necessary alterations. While 7 months before the wedding date may be cutting it close, it’s not necessarily too late to start looking for your dress.
It’s important to keep in mind that the process of buying a wedding dress can take several months, especially if you’re having a custom dress made. Most independent bridal retailers require about 5-6 months to create and alter gowns, so if you’re planning to go this route, it’s important to start the process as soon as possible.
If you’re buying a dress off the rack, you may have more flexibility with your timeline. However, it’s still important to give yourself enough time to shop around and make any necessary alterations. Many brides find their dress and fill in the order form several months before their wedding, allowing plenty of time for the dress to arrive and any alterations to be made.
Ultimately, the best time to buy your wedding dress depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you’re feeling stressed about finding the perfect dress in time for your wedding, consider working with a bridal consultant or shopping at a store with a wide selection of dresses in stock. With a little planning and patience, you can find the dress of your dreams, no matter how much time you have to work with.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about buying a wedding dress:
Is 7 months too late to buy a wedding dress?
While it’s always best to give yourself enough time to find the perfect wedding dress, 7 months is not too late to start shopping. Many bridal salons have a wide selection of dresses available for purchase off the rack, which means you can take your dress home with you that same day. However, if you’re looking for a made-to-order dress, it’s best to start shopping at least 8-10 months before your wedding day to allow for production time and alterations. If you have less time, like 4 months or even 3 months, there may be last-minute bridal gown options available.
How many dress fittings do I need?
The number of dress fittings you’ll need will depend on the type of dress you choose and how many alterations are necessary. On average, brides have 2-3 fittings before their wedding day. It’s important to schedule your fittings well in advance to ensure that your dress fits perfectly on your big day.
What should I bring to my dress fittings?
When you go to your dress fittings, be sure to bring the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will give you a better idea of how the dress will look and fit on your wedding day. You may also want to bring accessories, such as a veil or jewelry, to see how they look with the dress.
What if I change my mind about my dress?
If you change your mind about your dress after you’ve purchased it, it’s important to speak with the bridal salon as soon as possible. Many salons have strict return policies, so you’ll want to make sure you understand your options before making a purchase. If alterations have already been made to the dress, it may be more difficult to return or exchange it.
How much should I budget for my wedding dress?
The cost of a wedding dress can vary widely depending on the designer, style, and fabric. On average, brides spend around $1,500 on their wedding dress. However, there are many beautiful dresses available at lower price points, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. If you’re wondering whether 10 months is enough time or if 18 months is too early to buy a wedding dress, keep in mind that every situation is unique, and it’s essential to find a timeline that works for you.
