Choosing a bridal outfit is one of the biggest decisions you will make in the run up to your wedding. It’s often the first thing people think about, and with good reason, as there is so much to consider. With all those choices, sometimes what you want, and what you really need, get lost in the chaos of planning.

To ensure you find your perfect outfit for the big day, we’ve put together these simple but important tips to help guide you. 

Budget, Budget, Budget

No matter how big and lavish the wedding, everyone should set an outfit budget. Whether it’s large or small, one of the most important things you can do is choose your price range and stick to it.

The best thing to do is to simply avoid looking at dresses and outfits that are out of your price range. This stops you from being disappointed and ensures you can’t go over budget. As soon as you see an expensive outfit you love, no others will match up.

If you’ve already made the mistake of looking at budget-busting bridal wear, try using them as inspiration instead. If your budget allows it, you could even buy a cheaper outfit and use the leftover cash to add ‘high-end’ alterations, without spending a fortune.

Find your shape

Finding a flattering shape can be a really difficult task for some people, but if you plan ahead, you can make bridal shopping a lot easier. Wedding outfits are notoriously difficult to get on and off, right? So trying on hundreds of different styles in a bridal store is not what you want to be doing.

Instead, find a small handful of potential styles and try on things you already own. These will be a lot easier to try on than bridal wear and should give you a good idea of what style suits you before it comes to trying on the real thing.

Work with your colour scheme

Many brides make the mistake of picking a colour scheme and buying decorative items before they have even chosen their bridal outfit. This can be a mistake because you may end up falling for a piece that doesn’t quite work with your preferred colour scheme and when that happens, it can cost you time and money.

If you’ve already chosen a colour scheme, try to avoid trying on outfits that you know might not work and instead, focus on ones that complement the decorations and bridal party outfits. If you haven’t thought about your colour scheme yet, then consider choosing your outfit first and work your colours around that.

Think practically

Finally, when looking at wedding outfits, remember to think practically for the big day. Lavish and ornate bridal wear is beautiful but isn’t always practical. Unless you’re planning on changing, you’re going to be wearing your wedding outfit most of the day – which can get uncomfortable if there’s too much going on. You’ll also need to consider the little things like going to the toilet, sitting down for dinner and having your first dance.

All of these things can be hard to do in a bridal outfit, so either opt for a practical choice or consider a dress change after the ceremony.