Finding the Perfect Gown

Picking your wedding dress is probably fairly high on your priority list. Once the date and venue have been selected and you have a basic idea of the theme of your wedding the next question for any bride is "What type of gown shall I wear?" It is important that you prepare yourself for what's in store before you go shopping.

Shopping for a wedding dress is different from your usual shopping spree. There are some tips to follow if you want to feel confident and in control, not hassled and frazzled.

• Buy a few wedding magazines (if you haven't already done so_ to get a general view of the styles of gowns available.
  
• Most key designers and stores advertise in the first few pages of a magazine but check out the whole magazine as you can get ideas from anything.
  
• Try and decide on a style of gown you want before you go shopping. Read up on what styles will enhance your best features while hiding your flaws. This will narrow down your selection and save you time. Feel free to take your scrap book of ideas with you when you go shopping.
  
• Shop with only one or two trusted friends or family members as too many opinions will make you even more confused. Your mother, best friend or sister have your best interests at heart and will be able to give you an honest opinion.
  
• Wear your best underwear on the day you decide to try on dresses. Don't wear any old bra or underwear as you will be embarrassed if you need the shop assistant's help to do up a corset. Wear a bra that fits well in neutral colours or white to get a feel of how the dress will look.
  
• Call the stores in advance to see if you need to make an appointment. Most stores like to offer personal services and have a consultant to take you through the range of dresses available. Do not be intimidated if the boutique requires you to make an appointment as this means they will attend to you personally and help you make the right choice.
  
• If you have a bigger budget or if your husband-to-be is willing to splash on your wedding dress, get your custom-made by a well-known wedding couturier.
  
• Be adventurous and try on as many gowns as you can since they won't charge you for trying. On the rack, some gowns may not be what you're looking for or something you wouldn't be seen dead in, but it could look absolutely gorgeous once you put it on.
  
• Know your options: made-to-measure, off the rack or rent.
  
• Always keep in mind your wedding theme, venue and style.
  
• Check your timeline. Order your gown at least 6 months in advance and schedule a fitting two weeks to a month before your wedding.