The Decision

  Take your time when it comes to selecting your wedding dress; you don't want to be hurried. Leave about nine months to find the perfect dress.However, don't allocate so much time that your dress is no longer exciting by the time the date comes around! The choice before you will probably seem daunting, but there are some ways of narrowing your decision.

  Consider what time of day your wedding is and how formal you plan on making the day. What about the location? If it's outdoors, does it call for a more informal gown? Your body shape will also have a marked influence on the dress you select. Your final choice should flatter you as much as possible. Naturally your budget will probably dictate something about the dress you end up selecting. A retail dress will usually cost about $1500 (plus alterations and accessories). If you're not willing to make concessions, and would prefer to have your dream dress created for you, a made-to-measure couture gown will cost you at least $2500-$3000.

  Whilst your budget is important, remember that this is a once in a lifetime purchase and you should follow your heart. It is incredibly exciting deciding upon your bridal dress and you will undoubtedly pour over magazines, friends and relatives wedding photos and through bridal fashion retailers for inspiration. Take your time and you will arrive at exactly the style you want.

  Your dress should also be selected to suit the theme of your wedding. Popular choices are medieval, gothic, modern, traditional, Scottish, Victorian or any other theme you have decided upon.

Enlisting Help

  You will need to enlist the help of your mum or a bridesmaid. This is a hard decision to make on your own, and you'll appreciate their objective opinion. Preferably, you want a companion who will be able to see all the gowns as you try them on, so they can offer an informed decision. You will also need to shop with someone who has similar ideas as you, or at least knows your style well. You do not want them to sway you from your own personal taste.

Shapes and Cuts

  By now, you will probably know what style of dress suit you. Keep this in mind as you begin shopping. When choosing such an important dress, you should stick with what you know looks good. What is your favourite neckline? When you buy skirts, what cut do you often find yourself attracted to?

The Picture of a woman in her wedding gown is one she will look back on throughout her life.