Choosing a wedding dress can seem like a big decision. After all, you’ll be looking back at photographs of you wearing your dress for years to come. Here are 5 wedding dress appointment tips.

Some people have dreamed about trying on an array of beautiful wedding dresses for years since they were little and playing dress-up.

For other brides, the thought of trying on dresses might be making them nervous. Hang-ups about body image, cost and having people look at you can all make your first dress appointment feel like a chore, rather than the fun experience it should be.

1. Take Someone You Trust

My first tip would be to take someone with you that you trust. And I mean really trust. If any of your friends have ever made a comment about your looks, weight, hair colour, tattoos etc that wasn’t positive then they are not the one.

While I have a great relationship with my Mum, I know that’s not the same for everyone. Also sometimes Mums can be more invested in how they think you should look on your wedding rather than how you want to look.

I would also argue that less is more here. One or two people with you are great, but any more and you might find everyone’s opinions overwhelming.

A good friend will be honest, but gentle with any criticisms and should make sure these are about the dress rather than the way you look.

2. Try As Many Different Styles As You Can

Many of us have preconceived notions about the type and style of dress we would like. But a lot of brides are surprised when they try something a bit different to what they originally thought they wanted.

Even if it’s just to rule them out, try a few different styles that are a bit outside of what you like, it could lead you to find your perfect dress.

3. Don’t Be Afraid of Colour

While wedding dresses are traditionally white, more and more brides are choosing something with a hint of colour. Cream, gold and champagne tones can all still feel bridal without steering too far from traditional.

Of course, if you want to go all out on the colour front, then there is nothing wrong with it, it just makes it more likely you’ll need your dress to be custom-made.

4. Accessories Can Make or Break A Dress

If you find a dress that you really like, but don’t love, it might be time to try some accessories.

Dresses, especially those that are a little bit plainer, can feel like they lack the wow factor. Adding shoes, a veil and a tiara or some other jewellery can help you get a feel for what the dress will look like on your big day.

Don’t forget to take any accessories with you, for example, if you plan to wear a veil that belonged to a family member. This will help you match the colour and style to your dress.

5. Don’t Feel Pressured Into Buying There and Then

Just because you’re trying on dresses, it doesn’t mean you have to purchase there and then. Take your time, choose some favourites and maybe come back another day with a different friend or family member to make your final choice.

The only exception to this is if you’re buying ‘off the rack’ or from a sample sale where the dress may not be available later on. If it’s your dream dress and a great price then you should buy it there and then!

Trying on wedding dresses should be an enjoyable experience and as long you’re being kind and polite the staff should make you feel like a princess, no matter what your size, shape or appearance.