How Many Wedding Dresses Should You Try On? [Preferably]

Your wedding is coming up. You’ve got a few bridal shops in mind and you know what style you are generally looking for. But how many dresses should you put on to see if is the right one for you and how many appointments are typically needed? In preparation for my own wedding and with these questions in mind, I spent some time researching to know exactly how to approach the process. I’ll be sharing my findings and the popular perspective here with you today.

So, how many wedding dresses should you try on? It is generally advised to try between 3-8 dresses across different fits, styles and fabrics. This way, you will be able to get a good feel and understanding of what is best for you. It is advised not to try on too many more than this. Otherwise, it can lead to confusion, feeling overwhelmed by the process, or self-doubt.

Of course, it all comes down to personal circumstances.

Some brides land on the dress with the first one they try on, whereas others need to try on more than 30 to find one that they are content with.

Generally, however, the less the better.

The truth is, you want to try on just enough dresses for a fair comparison, without extending the shopping experience unnecessarily.

While it is true that the process is exciting if you do not make a commitment to a dress that you find that you love; you are always risking the dangers of overthinking.

It can become very stressful and the whole experience can quickly turn sour.

Let us now take a closer look at some of those other questions you may be having regarding the process.

This way you will know exactly what to expect from the experience and can set your expectations accordingly.

Be sure to keep reading until the end, as we look at exactly when you should be looking to try on the dresses in relation to the date of your special day.

It’s actually more important than you think!

Do You Have To Make An Appointment To Try On Wedding Dresses?

It comes strongly advised that you make an appointment to try on wedding dresses. While it is true that at some bridal shops you may be able to walk in, most have dedicated time slots and it is generally a much better experience to have a specified time and booking.

This is because you will want the full attention and assistance of the bridal stylist in the store, who will not be able to give you the level of service you may require without an appointment.

Equally, having an appointment just makes the entire process that much more pleasant.

It will ensure you get a decent changing room too, with good visibility and access to a range of different mirrors at different angles.

Not being able to try on dresses when you expect you will is not ideal, and having to potentially come back at a later time is just highly inconvenient.

Besides, the bridal store will appreciate you making an appointment in advance.

It doesn’t take long and is easy to do so over the phone, via email, or even at the front desk of the bridal store.

Either way, giving the bridal store some time to prepare will be of equal benefit.

So, call and make the appointment ahead of time!

How Many Dresses Can You Try On In A Bridal Appointment?

The average soon-to-bride will try on between 5-15 dresses during a bridal appointment.

Although, the number of dresses that you can try on in a bridal appointment will depend on a number of factors, including how long your bridal appointment is booked for, how long it takes you to get in and out of dresses, how long you are in each one and your stamina to keep changing (wedding dresses are heavy after all!)

Generally, bridal appointments last for 1-2 hours. So, it depends on what is going to be realistic for you during that time.

If it is your first time wedding dress shopping, then you may even find that it takes you longer to try on each dress.

Typically, each dress takes longer when you do not have your style, fit, or fabric in mind.

How Many Wedding Dresses Can You Try On In An Hour?

You can typically expect to try on between 5-10 dresses in an hour, although a lot will depend on the speed at which you can change, how easily accessible each dress is, and how long you show each dress to any friends and family members who come along with you.

The best way to approach a bridal appointment is however to take your time with each dress, and ensure you have given each one that you try on enough time to get a feel for whether it is for you.

If this means that you need to make another bridal appointment, then this is the recommended approach to take.

How Many Wedding Dress Appointments Should I Make?

It is generally advised to make 2 wedding dress appointments initially. You should look to do so, preferably with one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

This is because trying on wedding dresses is actually quite exhausting and involves quite a lot of movement and activity.

Besides, it is common for bridal stores to be in different locations and you’ll likely need to factor in travel too.

By making only two appointments initially, and having that first day, you can then get a better understanding and feel for the style, design, fit and fabric that you like.

From there, you can always book further appointments as and when needed.

How Long Before A Wedding Should You Try On Dresses?

It is typically advised by wedding experts to begin researching for your wedding dress 12 months in advance of your wedding date and begin to shop 10 months prior. From there, you should look to have made a decision on your dress at least 8 months before your special day.

While you may have time beyond this, it’s important to not shop too soon.

The reason is, if you shop too far in advance you will likely look at, and even try on, considerably more dresses than you truly need to. This can result in confusion as to what you like and want best.

Besides, many new dresses will not have been released by the time, as they are released seasonally (around October and April).

But at the same time, you do not want to leave it too late either.

8 months out is advised as this gives you time to avoid any unnecessary stress, and ensure there is sufficient time for any alterations or changes.

When you think about it, most wedding dresses are made to order; so there is a lot involved and that needs to be done. From measurements to fabric orders, to payments.

So anything less than 6 months is likely going to be cutting it a bit fine.

Sometimes, you may even incur further charges as bridal stores need to work against the clock to have your dress ready.

Lastly, once you decide on your dress. Stop looking!

You don’t want to cast doubt on your decision and there is little to be gained once you have the dress you want!

Finally

Shopping for a wedding dress really is a unique and exciting experience.

That being said there is certainly a time and a place to do so, and the process should never be rushed or drawn out unnecessarily.

What matters is that you find the right style, fit, and fabric for you.

One of the best ways to do this is to certainly make a list of the things you want in your dress ahead of time.

Do your research and look online for ideas and recommendations.

When the time is right, look at and contact different bridal stores that are likely to stock it.

And when the time comes, be sure to try on variety; even if you do not think initially that may like it.

You’d be surprised at how many brides fall in love with a dress they never considered was a possibility.

At the end of the day try to enjoy the process and experience without overthinking it.

Trying on 5-10 dresses should be roughly expected, but you may need less or more.

It’s all about context!