Your First Wedding Dress Fitting: What to Expect (No Stress!)

So you've said yes to the dress and now it's time for your first wedding dress fitting! I totally get it—you might be feeling a mix of excitement and nerves right now. Trust me, that's completely normal. Your first fitting is such a special milestone in your wedding planning journey, and I'm here to walk you through exactly what to expect so you can feel confident and prepared.

Here's the thing: your first wedding dress fitting is where the magic really happens. It's when your dress transforms from a beautiful sample into YOUR wedding dress. The seamstress will assess how the dress fits your body and discuss all the alterations needed to make it absolutely perfect for your big day.

Let's dive into everything you need to know to make your first fitting amazing!

Getting Ready for Your Appointment

What to Bring to Your First Wedding Dress Fitting

Okay, let's talk about what you absolutely need to bring with you. These items will help your seamstress get the most accurate fit possible:

Your Wedding Shoes (or Something Close)

This is super important! The height of your shoes affects the hem length of your dress. If you haven't bought your wedding shoes yet, bring a pair with a similar heel height to what you're planning to wear. Even a slight difference can throw off the entire silhouette.

The Right Undergarments

You'll want to wear the exact bra and undergarments you plan to wear on your wedding day. If you're planning to wear shapewear or a special bra, bring it! The fit of your dress depends heavily on what's underneath, so don't skip this step.

Inspiration Photos

Bring photos of any specific looks you love or details you want to incorporate. Maybe you saw a gorgeous neckline adjustment on Pinterest or a beautiful bustle style. Your seamstress can work magic, but they need to know what you're envisioning!

Hair Accessories (If You Have Them)

If you've already chosen your veil, headpiece, or hair accessories, bring them along. This helps you see the complete look and ensures nothing interferes with the dress's design.

Pre-Fitting Checklist

Here are some things to keep in mind before your appointment:

Eat Something Light

You don't want to be hangry during your fitting, but you also don't want to feel too full.

What to Eat Before Wedding Dress Shopping? A light snack beforehand is perfect.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, but maybe not right before your appointment. You'll be standing for a while, and bathroom breaks in a wedding dress can be tricky!

Skip the Lotion

Avoid putting lotion on your arms, back, or anywhere the dress might touch. Some lotions can stain delicate fabrics, and you definitely don't want that.

Bring a Supportive Friend

Consider bringing one trusted person—maybe your mom, sister, or best friend. They can help you remember important details and offer moral support. Just don't bring too many people, as it can get overwhelming.

What Happens During Your First Wedding Dress Fitting

Meeting Your Seamstress

Your seamstress or bridal consultant will be your best friend throughout this process. They've seen it all and are there to make you feel comfortable and confident. Don't be shy about speaking up if something doesn't feel right or if you have concerns.

They'll start by having you put on the dress and taking a good look at how it fits. This might feel a bit awkward at first—standing in front of mirrors while someone examines every angle—but remember, they're professionals who want you to look absolutely stunning.

The Fitting Process

Here's what typically happens:

Initial Assessment

Your seamstress will look at the overall fit and take notes about what needs to be adjusted. They'll check the bust, waist, hips, shoulder fit, and overall length.

Pinning and Marking

This is where it gets real! Your seamstress will use pins to mark where alterations need to be made. You might feel like a pincushion, but don't worry—they're experts at this and will be careful.

Discussing Alterations

Your seamstress will explain what alterations are needed and why. Common adjustments include taking in the bust or waist, shortening the hem, adjusting shoulder straps, or adding bustles for your train.

Trying Different Positions

You'll probably sit, walk, and move around in the dress to make sure it fits properly in all positions. This helps ensure you'll be comfortable throughout your entire wedding day.

Questions You Should Ask

Don't be afraid to ask questions! Here are some important ones to consider:

About the Alterations Process:

• How many fittings will I need?

• What's the timeline for completing alterations?

• What happens if I lose or gain weight before the wedding?

About Costs:

• What's the total cost for all alterations?

• Are there any additional fees I should know about?

• What payment methods do you accept?

About Care and Storage:

• How should I store my dress after alterations?

• Do you offer steaming services before the wedding?

• What should I do if something gets damaged?

What Happens After Your First Fitting

Scheduling Your Next Appointment

Your seamstress will schedule your next fitting based on how much work needs to be done. Most brides need 2-3 fittings total, but this can vary depending on how many alterations are needed.

Timeline Expectations:

• First fitting: 6-8 weeks before the wedding

• Second fitting: 2-3 weeks before the wedding

• Final fitting: 1 week before the wedding

Between Fittings

Try to maintain your weight as much as possible between fittings. Small fluctuations are normal and can usually be accommodated, but significant changes might require additional alterations.

Keep your dress safe and follow any storage instructions your seamstress gives you. Most dresses should be hung properly and covered to protect them from dust and damage.

Common First Fitting Worries (And Why You Shouldn't Stress!)

"The dress doesn't fit perfectly"

That's exactly why you're having alterations! Very few dresses fit perfectly off the rack. Your seamstress is trained to make it fit you like a glove.

"I don't know if I chose the right dress"

It's normal to have some doubts, but remember why you chose this dress in the first place. Sometimes seeing it on you again after a few months can feel different, but that's okay!

"I'm nervous about the alterations"

Professional seamstresses work with wedding dresses every day. They know exactly how to make your dress fit perfectly while maintaining its beauty and structure.

Making the Most of Your Fitting Experience

Remember, this is supposed to be fun! Yes, it's a big investment and an important step, but it's also an exciting milestone in your wedding planning journey.

Take photos if your salon allows it. You'll want to remember this moment, and it's fun to see the transformation from your first fitting to your final fitting.

Don't rush the process. Take your time, ask questions, and make sure you're completely happy with how everything looks and feels.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Dress?

Your first wedding dress fitting is going to be amazing—I just know it! You're going to feel like the beautiful bride you are, and seeing your dress transformed to fit you perfectly will be such a special moment.

If you haven't found your dream dress yet, don't worry! The team at Bridal and Formal Boutique & House of Tux is here to help you find the perfect gown for your special day. With their personalized service and stunning selection, you'll find a dress that makes you feel absolutely radiant.

Remember, this is your time to shine. Enjoy every moment of this process, from finding your dress to that final fitting when everything comes together perfectly. You've got this, and you're going to look absolutely stunning on your wedding day!