Designer Wedding Dress Guide

Find a designer wedding dress that will thrill you from the moment you put it on.

Priscilla Of Boston Wedding Dresses


Every bride dreams of the perfect dress. With the right designer gown, it's easier than you think. An experienced boutique, knowledgeable personnel and your own creativity will help make your designer gown shopping experience seamless.

Knowing Your Designers

If you already have a designer in mind, prepare for your shopping trip by looking through magazines or on the internet for the designer?s latest gowns. Many designers unveil their creations at the beginning of each season, but you?ll probably find the largest selection in the late winter to early spring in preparation for June, the most popular marrying month of the year. If you plan to shop mid-season, look online for popular picks (and often, sneak peeks at soon-to-be available gowns).

A bride who doesn?t have a preference for one specific designer can preview gowns in the general style she?s been considering. Have some firm ideas in mind before entering the store. Viewing additional styles (silhouettes) in advance can also be to your advantage. Be flexible; you may be surprised by a wedding gown silhouette that turns out to be perfect for you.

Suiting Your Style

Finding the right designer wedding dress depends upon the formality of your wedding, the time of year, and your own sensational sense of style. Remember: this is your day. No matter how appropriate a particular cut, material weight and type of dress may seem, if it doesn?t thrill you, then it?s time to move on in your search. Don?t worry; a well-trained designer wedding dress salesperson can guide you in the right direction toward your very best dress, and a little homework on your part will give you the foreknowledge you need.

Start with your body shape. What body parts do you love to accentuate? Do you have lovely shoulders that would look terrific in a sleeveless gown? Are you proud of your arms, your neck, your waist or hips? Keep your favorite assets in mind when choosing your designer gown. For instance, opera-length gloves along with a sleeveless bodice will accentuate lovely arms and hands. A close fit from midriff to the top of the hips cinches in and focuses on the waist, and flowing materials (such as in an empire silhouette gown) give a delicate and feminine appearance to the midriff, waist, hips and legs. The ?mermaid? or slim/column silhouette draws the eye to your legs, giving them a long, lean and glamorous appearance. And of course, a flirty, short-length gown shows off those gorgeous calves.

Finishing Touches

While shopping for your designer wedding dress, don?t forget the accessories. Ask the boutique whether they carry, or can offer recommendations for, your veil, shoes and wedding jewelry. Most bridal shops offer veils and head pieces that either match a gown or complement one or more of its details. Don?t be afraid to ask the advice of your wedding sales professional if you?re stuck for ideas. He or she just may have the perfect finishing touch to make your wedding dress dream come true.