For a dress that costs as much as a small vacation (on average, brides spend less than $2,000 on a wedding dress), you’d think brides would treat their wedding gown like treasure.
But the truth?
Many of us unknowingly treat our gown like an afterthought: rushed fittings, careless storage, no plan for cleaning or preservation, and whatnot. Right, ladies?
And the result? A gown that doesn’t fit, doesn’t last, or doesn’t photograph the way you hoped. In this guide, we cover the nine most common mistakes a bride-to-be can make with their bridal attire and provide guidance on how to prevent them.
9 Common Wedding Dress Mistakes Every Bride Can Avoid
Let’s take a look at some of the most common wedding gown mistakes you can avoid, so your gown stays perfect from fittings to the aisle.
1.Choosing the Wrong Size or Fit
Many brides get carried away ordering a size smaller, hoping they’ll slim down before the big day. But wedding dresses aren’t like everyday clothes that can be dramatically resized. Alterations can only do a little touch-up.
So, go for your size when buying the dress and rely only on professional seamstresses. Remember, it’s easier to take a dress in than to let it out.
2.Not Getting the Right Fabric As Per Venue/Season
A heavy velvet gown in a peak summer or a breezy satin dress at a winter wedding? Big-big mistake! Fabric choice plays a huge role in your comfort and overall look. Consider the venue, weather, and season before finalizing.
You don’t want to unnecessarily sweat, shiver, or constantly adjust the gown instead of enjoying the day.
3.Waiting Too Long to Start Shopping
It usually takes months to shop, order, or alter the gown the way you want to slay in it on the big day. Waiting until the last minute limits your choices and puts unnecessary stress on you. Start shopping at least 8–10 months ahead so you have enough time for fittings, adjustments, and accessorizing.
4.Skipping Alterations
No matter how gorgeous or expensive a dress you have bought, it will look unflattering if it doesn’t fit your body perfectly. Skipping alterations is one of the most common mistakes brides make.
So, always budget time and money for at least two to three fittings before the wedding.
5.Wearing the Dress Before the D-Day
We get it, brides! You cannot help but try on that show-stopping wedding dress again and again before the wedding. But constant handling increases the risk of stains, wrinkles, or fabric damage. So, limit your temptation to try on the dress and keep it safely stored in a breathable garment bag.
6.Neglecting Comfort
No matter how beautiful the dress is, if you can’t sit, dance, or even breathe in it, the day will feel miserable. Brides often forget that comfort matters just as much as style. Choose a gown that not only flatters you but also allows you to enjoy your day without constant tugging or fidgeting.
7.Overlooking Proper Storage Before the Wedding
Leaving your dress in a plastic bag or hanging it carelessly in the closet? Not a good idea at all. Fabric can crease, yellow, or pick up odors. Wedding gowns should be stored properly, typically in a breathable garment bag, hung securely in a safe location, and kept away from moisture, sunlight, and heat.
| If not a closet, take a hint from the incredible idea shared by this Reddit user on storing wedding gowns. Do try it out, ladies! |
8.Not Getting Appropriate Undergarments
The wrong bra or shapewear can completely ruin the way your gown looks and feels. Straps peeking out, visible lines, or a lack of support can distract from even the most gorgeous dress. Always plan your undergarments with the gown in mind, and test them during fittings to make sure everything sits smoothly and comfortably.
9.Not Planning for Cleaning and Preservation
After the wedding, too many brides just stash the gown in a closet and forget about it. Do that, and you risk ruining the gown for good. Sweat, hidden stains, perfume marks, and environmental factors can damage the fabric over time.
Therefore, opting for professional wedding dress cleaning and preservation is the best way to safeguard your dress from the risks of yellowing, fabric deterioration, foul odors, mold, and other long-term issues.
The Bottom Line
The truth is, your wedding gown doesn’t come with a manual, but it should. By skipping these common mistakes, you’ll protect your dress, your budget, and your peace of mind. Think of it as one less thing to stress about and one more way to step into your big day with confidence