The Cinderella Dress Effect

Walking into a bridal boutique can be one of the most intimidating and stressful moments for any bride. Sometimes we wish it could be as easy as our Fairy Godmother appearing and waving her magical wand, and Poof!

We found the perfect dress within moments and are dazzled by sales professionals. Although this would never happen in reality, there are several ways to prepare for finding the perfect dress and creating a positive atmosphere.

Here are some tips to help you on your journey of the Perfect Wedding Dress.

Know Your Body Shape 

Become familiar with your body type to help determine what dresses would enhance your best features and embrace your body shape.

Hour Glass

• Mermaid/Trumpet
• A-Line/Princess
• Column/Sheath

Tall & Thin

• Mermaid/Trumpet
• Column/Sheath
• Ball Gown

Petite

• Column/Sheath
• A-Line/Princess
• Empire Waist

Apple

• A-Line/Princess
• Ball Gown
• Empire Waist

Pear

• A-Line/Princess
• Ball Gown
• Empire Waist

Full Figure

• A-Line/Princess
• Empire Waist

Once you have determined which dresses will best compliment your features, it's time to start looking online and in magazines. Magazines provide great illustrations but on the down side not all designers advertise in bridal magazines or are available in your country to purchase.

Create your own catalogue or book with dresses that you would like to try on and would love to be your wedding dress. Store information such as designer name, collection, price and a picture. Bring this book with you during your visits at the dress boutiques.

Even though you may have some dresses that are a little over your budget, you could ask to see similar dresses that are in a lower price as well as if there are any clearance on previous collections from the designer. Let’s be honest, no body will know that your dress was on sale or was in last year's collection. Showing your book to your sales professional will give them a better understanding of what you are looking for and will make it easier to help fulfill your needs. 

It is never too early to start looking for wedding dresses and visiting boutiques. Some experts would advise you to start looking at least 8 - 12 months before the big day this will give you enough time for alterations. Please make sure to check with the boutique to ensure that the dress will be made in time for the wedding, other factors to take into consideration are customization, designers, where it is being made and the high demand during the season. 

Elizabeth - Bride to be

Source: Google Images - Cinderella 2015 & Wedding Dress Chart. Accessed March 9th, 2015