Wedding Wednesday - Wedding Day Attire Timeline

This Wedding Wednesday we’re talking timelines.  Not just any timeline, but wedding attire timeline.  When should you start shopping for your wedding gown?  How far in advance should the groomsmen order their tuxedos?  We’ve got answers to these questions and more below!

Wedding Gown

Start shopping for your wedding gown 9-10 months prior to your wedding (if your getting married in 6 months, go right now!).   Choosing a wedding dress is the part of the wedding planning process that brides are often most excited about, but don’t start shopping too soon!  Styles change, as may your taste.  Also, don’t visit the bridal shops until you are ready to purchase a dress.  It’s quite disheartening to try on that perfect gown and fall head over heels in love, but walk out with nothing.

Once you’ve chosen your dress, you should pay for and order it by 8 months prior to your wedding date.  Wedding gowns, on average, take 4-5 months from payment to delivery.  Of course, all shops and designers are different.  Allow yourself ample time for delivery and alterations.  Schedule your first fitting for 3 months out, 2^nd fitting for 6 weeks out, and the final fitting should be 2-3 weeks before your wedding date.

Bridesmaids' Dresses

Aim to have your attendants’ dresses picked out with 8 months to go, and have your girls order their dresses within the 4-6 month window.  This will allow 2-3 months for delivery and 4-6 weeks for alterations (allotting time for a 2^nd fitting, if needed).  Again, all shops are different.  Some dresses may come in right away, while some of the smaller boutiques may require more time.  Check with your specific location, once you have narrowed down that perfect bridesmaid dress.

Veil, Shoes, Accessories

About 5 months before the big day is when you should start shopping for your veil, shoes, undergarments, and accessories.  You’ll need your shoes and undergarments by your first fitting.  Consider bringing a couple different types of undergarments with you.  Different cut bras, shape-wear, petticoats, etc. can drastically change the look of your gown.  You’ll want to make sure everything fits perfectly and isn’t visible with your dress on.

Groom and Groomsmen Tuxedos/Suits

The style of the groom’s and groomsmen suits should be chosen by 4 months prior to the big day, and ordered about 2-3 months out.  Check with the store where the suits are being rented.  Many of the bigger chains have larger inventory and the suits can be ordered a little bit later.