Starting the Wedding Attire Process: What to Know Before You Shop

Wedding attire is a big part of planning, but it’s also an area where many couples feel unsure about when to start, what to prioritize, and how to navigate the process. During this week’s episode of 52 ‘Til I Do, we discussed the early stages of wedding attire shopping—from timelines and expectations to what you need to consider before making your final selections.

If you’re just starting to think about what you’ll wear on your wedding day, this guide will help you understand the process and set yourself up for a smooth experience.

When to Start Shopping for Wedding Attire

Attire planning begins earlier than many couples expect, especially if customizations or alterations are involved.

General Timeline Guidelines

• Wedding Dresses: Most gowns take ten to twelve months to arrive after ordering, with alterations adding another two to three months.
• Suits & Tuxedos: If renting, reservations should be made three to four months before the wedding. If purchasing custom attire, start ten to six months in advance.
• Wedding Party Attire: Bridesmaids' and groomsmen's outfits should be chosen at least six months before to allow for ordering and alterations.

If you are shopping on a shorter timeline, be prepared to explore off-the-rack options or rush fees for expedited orders.

Setting Expectations for Wedding Attire Shopping

Before stepping into a bridal salon or tuxedo shop, it helps to know what to expect.

For Wedding Dresses:

• Appointments are usually required. If you’re going to a boutique, book ahead.
• Sample sizes may not be exact. Bridal sizing is bonkers and far different from street sizing. Clips or panels of extra fabric may be used to show fit on your body. Your body is beautiful the way it is, try not to put too much stock into these sample sizes! 
• Alterations are nearly always necessary. Standard sizing rarely fits exactly as you’d want it to, so factor alterations into your budget and timeline.
• Bringing the right people is important. Too many opinions can make the process harder, so consider limiting your group to those whose feedback matters most.
• You don’t have to “say yes” on the first trip. Take your time before making your decision. 

For Suits & Tuxedos:

• Decide if you’re renting or buying early. Rentals work well for formalwear but may not be the best option for unique color schemes or personal style preferences.
• Custom suits take longer. If you’re having something tailored, plan ahead to allow for fittings and adjustments.
• Coordinating with the wedding party takes effort. If groomsmen are renting, ensure they all get fitted by the shop’s deadline to avoid delays.

Shopping Strategies Based on Priorities

Every couple has different priorities when it comes to attire. Some focus on tradition, others on comfort, and some want a bold statement piece.

Here are a few ways to approach the process based on what matters most to you:

• If tradition is important: Start with classic silhouettes and colors that align with cultural or family expectations.
• If comfort is a priority: Look for lightweight fabrics, stretch materials, and breathable designs.
• If uniqueness matters: Explore non-traditional options like jumpsuits, colorful gowns, patterned suits, or unconventional accessories.

Wedding attire is highly personal, and there’s no single right choice—only what feels best for you.

How Attire Fits into the Bigger Planning Picture

Choosing wedding attire isn’t just about the outfits themselves—it also connects to other planning elements, including:

• The season and venue: Outdoor summer weddings may call for lighter fabrics, while winter weddings might require layers or accessories for warmth.
• Color coordination with the wedding party: If you want cohesive styling, consider choosing colors and fabrics that complement each other.
• Photography and movement: Some dress styles or suit fabrics interact differently with lighting and movement, so factor in what will photograph well.

The best time to start thinking about these factors is before shopping, so you’re not making rushed decisions under pressure.

Final Thoughts on Wedding Attire Planning

Wedding attire shopping can be an exciting experience, but it’s most enjoyable when you approach it with realistic timelines and clear priorities.

To recap:

• Start the process early, especially for items requiring tailoring or customizations.
• Know what to expect before shopping so you’re prepared for fittings and alterations.
• Choose attire that fits your style, comfort level, and wedding setting.
• Remember that accessories, shoes, and undergarments also play a role in your final look.

For a deeper breakdown of what to expect in the early stages of wedding attire shopping, listen to the full episode of 52 ‘Til I Do on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. 

Have more attire-related questions? Send us a message at hello@marryment.com or get in touch on our social media—we love helping couples navigate this part of wedding planning!

Photo Credit to JNA Visuals

‍Marryment proudly serves couples all across Chicago and the surrounding Chicago Suburbs including popular areas such as Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Naperville, Evanston, Joliet, Oak Park, Skokie, Barrington, Downers Grove and Northbrook, to name a few. We also love destination weddings. We'd love to be a part of your wedding day! Schedule your free planning call with us today.

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