What to wear Wedding Dress Shopping

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 20:52:08 GMT

Comfortable, Confident & Photo Ready!

What to Wear Wedding Dress Shopping (Bride + Guests Guide)

If you’re getting ready to shop for your wedding dress, you might be wondering:

“What do I even wear to a bridal appointment?!”

Here’s exactly what to wear (and what to avoid) when shopping for your wedding dress.

What Should the Bride Wear to Dress Shopping?

The goal is simple: wear something comfortable and easy to change in and out of.

1. Nude or Neutral Undergarments

Seamless, neutral undergarments work best under bridal gowns.

Avoid bright colors or heavy textures, as they can show through lighter fabrics like lace or satin.

2. A Strapless Bra (Optional)

Most wedding dresses have built-in support so a bra isn’t always necessary.

However - bringing a strapless bra can be helpful for certain styles. Our expert consultants will guide you along the way!

3. Comfortable Clothing

Wear something easy to take on and off. Keep in mind a consultant or guest will be in the changing room along side you to assist you so wear whatever makes you feel the most comfortable in that setting. The best options:

A simple dress
Leggings and a tank top
A loose top and jeans

You’ll be changing multiple times - so comfort is key.

Should You Wear Makeup to a Bridal Appointment?

Yes—but keep it light. Your group will take approximately 100 photos of you during your appointment - feel camera ready and confident!

A natural makeup look helps you feel confident while trying on dresses but heavy makeup can transfer onto gowns.

Think: soft glam or everyday makeup.

What Shoes Should You Bring?

You don’t need your exact wedding shoes yet.

Instead, bring:

Heels similar to your planned height or
A comfortable pair of shoes you can easily slip on and off

Andrea's Bridal provide platforms to stand on so you can see how the dress will look at the right height.

Should You Bring Accessories?

You can—but keep it simple.

Helpful items include:

A hair tie or clip
Minimal jewelry
Inspiration photos

Andrea's Bridal offers tons of veils and accessories to try on so you can truly bring your wedding vision to life

What NOT to Wear Wedding Dress Shopping

Avoid anything that makes changing difficult or could damage dresses:

Spray tans that may transfer
Heavy makeup or dark lipstick
Complicated outfits
Heavy jewelry

Keeping things simple helps protect the gowns and keeps your appointment stress-free.

Make the Most of Your Bridal Appointment

The best way to prepare is to come in with an open mind.

Many brides end up choosing a dress they didn’t expect—and that’s part of the magic of the experience.

Working with our expert bridal consultants can help guide you toward silhouettes and styles that truly fit your vision. We love what we do!

Start Your Wedding Dress Shopping Experience

At Andrea's Bridal, brides receive personalized styling support in a relaxed and welcoming boutique environment.

Whether you’re just starting your search or ready to find “the one,” having the right preparation can make all the difference.

✨ Schedule your bridal appointment here:
https://www.andreasbridalmaine.com/appointment

When Should You Start Shopping for Your Wedding Dress?

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 03:47:59 GMT

An honest timeline for wedding dress shopping...

One of th e most common questions our brides ask is: When should I start shopping for my wedding dress?

The short (and maybe surprising) answer: about 9–12 months before your wedding date.

You may still be getting used to saying "fiancée" but starting early ensures you have time for ordering, shipping, fittings and alterations without feeling rushed.

Your wedding gown sets the tone for the wedding and is deeply personal - give yourself time to enjoy this exciting part of wedding planning!

Why Wedding Dresses Take Time

Most bridal gowns are made-to-order , meaning your dress is ordered from the designer after you choose it. Most designers won't even cut the fabric until the order is placed. Production alone can take several months to get all the special details right.

Once the gown arrives, brides typically need 2–3 alteration appointments to achieve the perfect fit or to customize their vision with a seamstress.

Ideal Bridal Shopping Timeline

Here is a typical wedding dress timeline:

12 months before the wedding
Start researching bridal silhouettes, designers and price points.

9–10 months before the wedding

Schedule your bridal appointment. You can book with us online (link below) or by calling 207-772-5313
https://www.andreasbridalmaine.com/appointment

6–8 months before the wedding
Your dress is ordered and production begins. Use this time to finalize other details of your bridal party now that you have your dress!

2–3 months before the wedding
Andrea's Bridal offers a "Try On" appointment so you can try YOUR gown on, shop for accessories or veils and show friends/family that may not have been at the first appointment. This is often where you fall in love with your wedding dress again! Alterations and final fittings begin with your seamstress shortly after.

What If Your Wedding Is Sooner?

Don’t panic. We offer a large selection of in house "off the rack" and "sample sale" gowns - often at a discount from retail pricing. You are able to take that dress home that day!

We also work closely with designers to find "in stock" options that can be shipped within weeks, not months.

A bridal stylist can help you explore options that fit your timeline and we love a challenge! When making your appointment, let your consultant know your wedding date and any other time concerns - we are happy to help!

Ready to Start Wedding Dress Shopping?

Find us in downtown Portland, Maine & schedule a personalized styling appointment at Andrea's Bridal.