Planning a wedding is thrilling—until the dress search starts feeling like a full-time job. Breathe. You’ve got this. And with a little know-how (and a cup of coffee), you’ll walk into your appointment calm, prepared, and excited. Here’s our no-fluff, straight-talk guide from the stylists at Detroit Bridal House.
Start With Your Story, Not the Style
Before you scroll yourself dizzy, ask: What feeling do I want on my wedding day? Romantic garden? Sleek city rooftop? Classic church aisle? When you name the vibe, the dress follows. It’s easier to choose lace vs. satin—or ballgown vs. sheath—when the scene is clear in your mind.
Quick prompts:
- “I want to move easily and dance all night.”
- “I’m going for timeless photos in 20 years.”
- “I love a dramatic entrance—hello, train!”
Bring 5–7 inspiration photos max. More than that, and things get muddy fast.
Know Your Timeline (So You Don’t Sweat It Later)
Bridal fashion runs on a different clock. Most designer gowns take 4–7 months to arrive, plus 6–8 weeks for alterations. Planning tighter than that? No worries—ask about rush options and ready-to-wear pieces.
Ideal timeline:
- 10–12 months out: Start shopping.
- 6–8 months out: Place your order.
- 8–10 weeks out: First fitting.
- 2–3 weeks out: Final fitting and pickup.
Cutting it close? We’ve helped many last-minute brides look fabulous. It’s doable.
Build a Smart Budget (With Wiggle Room)
Set a number that covers the gown, alterations, and accessories. As a rule of thumb, plan 10–15% of your wedding budget for bridal fashion. Keep a small cushion for the veil you’ll fall in love with or the perfect pair of earrings. Because, you know, love at first sight happens.
Detroit Season, Meet Fabric
Michigan weather keeps us on our toes. Choose fabrics that play nice with the season and your venue.
- Winter/early spring: Mikado, crepe, long sleeves, detachable overskirts, luxe capes.
- Late spring/summer: Chiffon, tulle, organza, airy sheath silhouettes.
- Fall: Satin, stretch crepe, layered tulle, structured styles with a light jacket or wrap.
Pro tip: If you’re doing outdoor photos, a bustle and a second pair of shoes can save the day.
Silhouette Cheat Sheet (Simple, not strict)
Every body is a bridal body. Try a few shapes and trust the mirror.
- A-Line: Easy, classic, flatters almost everyone.
- Ballgown: Regal, dramatic, cinches the waist—great for grand venues.
- Sheath/Slip: Minimal, modern, moves beautifully.
- Fit-and-Flare/Trumpet: Curves for days, still easy to walk in.
- Tea-Length or Mini: Fun, vintage, perfect for civil ceremonies and after-parties.
And if you love pockets? Say the word. We’re fans.
Bring the Right People (Yes, this matters)
Invite 2–3 trusted voices—the ones who cheer you on and respect your taste. Too many opinions can drown out your own. If someone can’t make it, FaceTime at the “I think this is it” moment. Easy.
What to bring:
- Nude seamless underwear and a strapless bra (if you wear one).
- Shoes at a similar height to your wedding shoes.
- Hair roughly how you’ll wear it, even just half-up.
- An open mind. It’s our favorite accessory.
The Try-On Game Plan
At your Detroit Bridal House appointment, your stylist will pull based on your inspo and venue. We’ll try 1–2 “wild cards” too—the dark horses often win.
How to evaluate a gown:
- Can you breathe, sit, and lift your arms?
- Do you love the front, back, and side equally?
- Are you smiling without trying? That’s a sign.
If you can’t stop swaying in the mirror, you’re close.
Alterations: Where the Magic Happens
A great tailor is every bride’s secret weapon. Expect 2–3 fittings for hem, bustle, straps, cups, and contouring. Tiny tweaks add comfort and make the gown look custom.
Want sleeves added, a neckline softened, or a slit raised? Ask us—we specialize in tasteful, structural changes that look intentional, not “afterthought.”
Veils, Capes, and Sparkle—Oh My
Accessories finish the story. Try options with the dress on; silhouettes and fabrics can change what works.
- Veil lengths: Fingertip for easy movement, cathedral for drama.
- Capes/overskirts: Two looks in one. Ceremony wow, reception ready.
- Jewelry: Let one piece lead. If your earrings sing, keep the necklace simple.
- Shoes: Test for comfort on hard floors. Dance break included.
Common Pitfalls (So You Don’t Trip)
- Endless shopping: After 8–10 gowns, everything blurs. When it feels right, trust it.
- Buying a size down “for motivation”: Order for your current measurements. Seamstresses can take in; letting out is trickier.
- Chasing trends that aren’t you: Fashion fades. Your smile in the photos won’t.
Eco-Thoughtful Options
Love the planet? Same. Ask about:
- Sample sales and upcycled veils.
- Detachable elements that create multiple looks without a second dress.
- Preservation services so your gown lives on—loaned, resold, or cherished.