10 Tips for Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress (For You)

Struggling to find your dream wedding dress? You’re not alone.

Many of the brides I work with have already visited multiple boutiques, tried on dozens of dresses, and still feel like nothing is quite right. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by choice, or deflated when what you imagined doesn’t match how you feel in the mirror.

Recently, a bride came to me in tears because she didn’t love the dress she had bought from another boutique. She’d hoped it would feel right once it arrived, but it didn’t. She’d felt pressured to make a quick decision, swept up in the whirlwind of shopping, and resigned to ticking a “bridal look” box. Her enjoyment of the process had been eroded by disappointment, and she just wanted it to be over.

Sadly, I’ve heard this story more times than I can count over my 12 years working in the bridal industry. That’s why I’m keen on shifting the experience — so you can find a dress in a way that feels personal, joyful, and empowering.

Whether you’re wedding dress shopping in Manchester, London or anywhere across the globe, these ten tips will help focus your search, shift your mindset, and most importantly — remind you that the right dress is out there (even if it doesn’t exist yet).

1. Try on dresses — even the ones you wouldn’t expect to love

That minimalist slip you dismissed on the hanger? It might surprise you. Trying on a range of silhouettes and fabrics helps you understand what feels right on your body. Step outside your comfort zone and visit a mix of bridal boutiques with varied aesthetics — even ones you think aren't your style.

2. Look beyond bridal for inspiration

Pinterest, Instagram, and bridal magazines are great, but don’t stop there. Red carpet looks, couture runway shows, period dramas, historical costume books, or even a trip to a fashion exhibition can spark ideas. Resources like Love My Dress, Bridal Musings, and The Lane are full of real bride stories and styling ideas that might resonate.

3. Consider your venue before committing to a dress

Your wedding location shapes the kind of dress that will work. A dramatic satin ballgown might look incredible at Garthmyl Hall but feel out of place on a beach. Think about the vibe of your venue, the climate, the surfaces you’ll be walking on, and how you want to move: dancing, mingling, dining outdoors? Even if your venue isn’t booked yet, having a rough idea helps. Unless, of course, you want to plan the whole day around the dress — no judgement!

4. Look at your wardrobe

Your everyday style is a strong indicator of what makes you feel good. Do you gravitate toward structure or softness, minimalism or embellishment? Think about what you’ve worn to past events or parties that made you feel confident. It doesn’t mean your wedding look has to be expected or ‘normal’, it just gives you a starting point. Maybe you love a black jersey racer-back top? That could evolve into a pearl-beaded silk gown with a draped skirt and the same neckline.

5. Give yourself time (and sleep on it)

Start early if you can. That doesn’t mean rushing into a decision — quite the opposite. The earlier you begin browsing, the more options you'll have and the less pressure you’ll feel.

In a world that moves fast, it’s tempting to rush through the research phase just to reach a decision and tick it off the list. But I believe this stage can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the process, when you approach it as an experience in itself without the pressure to decide right away.

While most made-to-order wedding dresses require around 8 months, and bespoke bridal designers may book up a year in advance (especially for summer weddings), I always encourage my brides to sleep on it. Just because a dress feels “fine” in the moment doesn’t mean it’s the one. And just because a boutique is running a discount event doesn’t mean you should commit quickly.

If you're short on time, don’t panic as you still have a world of options. Whether that be off-the-peg samples, rush orders, or smaller bespoke designers may still be able to create something special.

6. Don’t forget about alterations and hidden costs

Almost every made-to-order dress will need alterations, even if it's just a hem. But customising a gown’s neckline, sleeves, or fit may not always be simple or affordable. Before saying yes to a dress that’s “almost right,” speak to an experienced bridal seamstress. Some boutiques underplay alteration costs or overpromise on what’s possible. Depending on your vision, a bespoke dress might actually work out better value (see tip 8).

7. Choose your fitting companion wisely

Bringing trusted support can help, but less is more. Take one or two people max whose opinions you trust and who understand your style. Avoid anyone who might project their own taste onto you.

If you struggle with confidence, or find the mirror overwhelming, know you’re not alone. Try reaching out to boutiques beforehand to share your concerns; a thoughtful response can make all the difference. Remember: you won’t be staring at yourself in the mirror on your wedding day, so go by how you feel in the dress.

8. Consider going bespoke

Seen bits you love, but nothing all in one dress? A bespoke, custom-made wedding dress might be the answer. Created from scratch, a bespoke gown reflects your personality, flatters your body, and is tailored to your exact needs — whether that’s unique style elements, a non-standard body shape, mobility restrictions, or just wanting something truly you.

If you're curious, you can read more about our bespoke process at Bronwen Bridge.

9. Speak to a few bespoke bridal designers

Going bespoke is a personal process, so you want the right fit, both in style and personality. Reach out to a few designers, ask about their process, and trust your gut. A good designer will listen carefully, explain things clearly, and help you feel at ease throughout.

While the majority of bespoke and custom designers are based in London, it is worth looking around the UK as prices can be understandably quite different. Although you will have to allow some more time for travelling there, you can alwys make a fun and memorable trip of it.

10. Trust yourself

You don’t have to cry, spin around, or have a big “say yes to the dress” moment. Some people do, but many don’t. What matters is how the dress makes you feel. Does it make you stand taller? Smile when you’re not trying to? That’s usually your answer.

Some brides wear pink party dresses. Others wear their grandmother’s gown. Some find something perfect in a charity shop before they’re even engaged. There are no rules. Your dress should feel like you.

Still searching? If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed or uninspired, it might be time to think differently. At Bronwen Bridge, we design gowns that don’t exist yet — dresses made to reflect your story, your shape, and your individual style.

Take a look at The Solenne Collection, read about the bespoke process, or get in touch to talk through your ideas.

You deserve a wedding dress that feels like you. Let’s create it!

Credits:

Many thanks to Alessandra from Arielinblue and Claire McClean for capturing the images in this post.