If you’re nervous about buying a wedding dress online, rest assured that you’re not alone. Many brides find it hard to make up their mind about ordering their gown from an online store but it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are a few tips to guide you in buying the perfect gown.
· Know the fabric you want
Unlike brick and mortar stores where you can run silk through your fingers, you won’t be able to physically examine the type of fabric you want to buy. It’s best to keep in mind the type you want and pay special attention to the description section to know the fabrics used. You don’t want to select a gown that looks nice but uncomfortable to wear.
· Have a realistic budget
It’s pointless admiring a bunch of gowns out of your price range. And while you set a budget, keep in mind that you’d probably need to purchase a veil, petticoat, shoes, underwear and jewellery as well. That’s not all; you also have to consider other factors such as shipping, tax and alterations.
· Affordable or cheap
Much like every other item, you get what you pay for when you buy a wedding gown online. While it’s a great idea to look for ways to save, going for a ridiculously inexpensive gown can cost you in the long run. Items that sell for such crazy low prices often have a quality that falls way below average. So if you notice that the gown you’re interested in is super cheap, you might want to look elsewhere.
· Scan through policies of the online boutique
Most online stores offer a return policy but some don’t. You don’t want to order a gown online only to discover that it doesn’t meet your expectations and you can’t return it. Also, it’s important to check their restocking fee so you don’t end up parting with a significant sum when you return a gown.
· Make the purchase well in advance
Unlike other items like gadgets, wedding gowns can take some time before they get to you. In fact, some labels state that their delivery time takes as long 4-6 months, largely because of the manufacturing. When shopping, make sure the estimated delivery time works for you so you can avoid disappointment. This tip is also applicable to those who are picky shoppers.
· Know your measurements
Since you can’t try on the gown on-site, you will need to know your own measurement so you can easily find the perfect fit. You need just three: your bust, waist and hips. If you need to, get a friend to help. But should you find yourself debating between two sizes, it’s safer to go for a bigger size as you can get your tailor to adjust it accordingly.
· Ask for clarifications
Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have any. A good sales representative will never make you feel like you’re asking too many questions because they know how hard it can be making a purchase online. Be sure to ask lots of questions before buying a wedding dress.
Summary
You will agree that nothing beats browsing through wedding dressed with your bridesmaids and mother. The tips above can make your experience less daunting and help you find the gown that meets your expectations.