What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting

Your wedding dress fitting is one of the most exciting milestones in the wedding planning journey. It’s the moment when your dream dress begins to feel like your dress—perfectly tailored to fit your body and your vision. To help you feel confident and prepared, we are sharing our guide on What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting and how to make the most of the experience when you find the perfect dress.

What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting

1. How Many Fittings to Expect

First on our list of What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting is knowing how many fittings to expect. Most brides need two to three fittings before the gown is ready for the big day. The first fitting is typically scheduled 2–3 months before the wedding. This is when your seamstress begins alterations, adjusting the gown to your measurements. The second or follow-up fitting should be scheduled about a month before the wedding to fine-tune adjustments and add any additional embellishments you may want, such as lace, belts, or beading. The third or final fitting is usually within two weeks of the wedding to ensure everything is perfect.

2. What to Bring With You

Also on our list of What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting is what to bring with you. For the most accurate fitting, make sure you bring your wedding shoes (or a pair with the same heel height). In addition to your wedding shoes, you should also bring undergarments and shapewear you plan to wear with the dress.  This will allow you to see how the undergarments will look under the dress and give you time to make adjustments, if needed. Lastly, any accessories such as your veil, jewelry, or belt, if you want to see the full look. Again, this will allow you to make any adjustments before your big day.

3. What Will Happen During the Appointment

Knowing what will happen during the appointment is also on our list of What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting. The seamstress will pin and mark adjustments for the hem, bodice, straps, or sleeves. Also, you’ll practice walking, sitting, and maybe even dancing in your gown to test comfort and movement. Be prepared for small tweaks.  Keep in mind that it’s normal for the dress to look slightly unfinished until the final fitting.

4. Who to Bring With You

Bring one or two trusted people whose opinions you value, such as your Mom and maid of honor.  Although some brides like to bring the entire bridal party to the wedding dress fitting, too many voices can make the process seem overwhelming.

5. Tips for a Stress-Free Fitting

One of our tips for a stress-free fitting is to wear light makeup and styled hair so you can imagine your wedding day look. You must be honest with your seamstress about comfort—don’t settle if something feels too tight or loose. Also, give yourself time. Alterations are an art, and rushing the process can cause unnecessary stress.  Plan and schedule your fitting in advance to avoid any stress.

Bonus Tip

Your wedding dress fitting is a special part of the wedding planning journey. It’s when the gown becomes uniquely yours. Go into the appointment with patience, trust your seamstress, and remember: every stitch brings you closer to the moment you walk down the aisle.

If you want to learn more about our guide on What to Expect at Your Wedding Dress Fitting, contact us to speak to one of our wedding planners.