With an expanding array of styles and increasingly affordable options, brides are increasingly turning their attention to online wedding dress stores. According to Shelley Brown, The Knot’s senior fashion and beauty editor, nearly half of females (45 percent) adjusted their attire search due to the impact of COVID, as revealed in The Knot 2020 Wedding Attire Study. As buying wedding dresses online trend gains momentum, it becomes essential for brides to carefully consider factors when opting to buy their wedding dresses online.
Here are seven tips for a successful online wedding dress purchase.
1. Decide on Your Budget.
While the significant price reduction is a key reason why modern brides buy wedding dresses online, it's still essential to have a budget plan in place. Establishing a realistic minimum and maximum range is not only a safeguard against overspending but also a strategic way to streamline your choices. This approach saves time and helps avoid unnecessary stress during the sometimes overwhelming process of wedding dress shopping.
2. Check Return Policy.
Understanding the return policy is crucial; ensure you comprehend what can be returned and what cannot before making a purchase. Additionally, be aware of the refund amount. While it's common for online stores to impose restocking fees and shipping fees, the key question is how much. Returning a wedding dress from New York to California may not be as a big deal as shipping it to Hong Kong. Carefully read all the details and consult customer service for any needed clarification.
3. Ask About the Fabric Used.
You may come across two wedding dresses with similar styles, but one is $500 cheaper than the other. Don't immediately go for the cheaper onw. Instead, delve into the details. Check the lace – is it adorned with pearls and crystals, and is it full-body or half-body? For those inclined towards a simple style, consider whether it's made with satin, crepe, chiffon, silk, or mikado. Regardless of your preference, understanding how each fabric presents the dress differently is crucial. If you're interested in a direct comparison between satin and mikado, our article Same design, different fabric: Mikado vs Satin provides an insightful exploration of the differences.
Same design, different fabric: Mikado vs Satin
4. Check Out Images from Review.
Rely on genuine customer reviews and photos for an authentic perspective on the dress. Be cautious of fake reviews and prioritize those offering insights into the style and fit, especially from customers with body types similar to yours.
5. Order 6 Months in Advance.
While The Knot suggests 8-10 months and Brides recommends a year for wedding dress orders, these timelines are primarily geared towards physical stores. When opting for an online purchase, it's essential to focus on the processing time and delivery time of the specific online store. In many cases, ordering at least six months in advance is advisable. Most online stores fulfill orders within a 2-month timeframe, and some may even deliver sooner for pre-made dresses. Ordering six months ahead provides a buffer for unforeseen issues, ensuring sufficient time for potential alterations.
6. Opt for Customized Sizes or Corset Back.
To avoid costly alterations, consider ordering custom-sized wedding dresses. According to Alexis Bennett Parker, a fashion commerce editor and writer for Vouge, "Bridal sizing, in general, can be totally different from traditional sizing. It’s important to make sure you’re reading the details. Taking your measurements is also extremely helpful." Some online stores, like Lilyaen, offer free customized sizing and options like corset lace back closures, providing flexibility in both fit and design.
Photo by The Sewing Garden
7. Keep communication open.
Maintain open communication with the online store. Ask questions before making the purchase and keep communication lines open throughout the process. If you experience changes, such as weight loss, inform the store to discuss potential adjustments. This also offers insights into the store's customer service efficiency for post-sale situations.
Online wedding dress shopping can be a cost-effective and convenient option when approached wisely. By following these tips, brides can navigate the process with confidence and make informed decisions when selecting their dream wedding dress online.