When to go dress shopping

You should start looking now. Alterations can take a while.

I would probably start looking immediately. Most brides tend to start shopping about a year out, as it can take that long to receive your dress and have time for alterations. Add into it the current pandemic state, plus the issues with the post/delivery services, and many dresses are being significantly delayed.

I think now would be a good time to start dress shopping!

For reference, I am also October 2021. I bought my dress a little over a month ago and the bridal shop told me it would not be in until February 2021 for me to pick up. Accounting that there might be delays and you would have to do alterations, I think now would be a good time to look.

From all the research I have found, typically you want to select and purchase your dress about 9-12 months prior to your wedding. So I would start browsing, seeing what types of styles you like, which bridal shops have the most designers, or have the dresses you want. If you are ready to start making appointments, go for it! If you're not, I wouldn't feel too stressed until December/January rolls around.

The rule of thumb is to have your dress ordered 10 months out. This allows time for it to arrive and time for alternations. I got married October 5th of 2019 and I ordered my dress in January of 2019. I started dress shopping in December of 2018.

Now! I’m getting married next October, and I ordered my dress at the end of July. Due to delays and whatnot thanks to Covid, it is now supposed to arrive in March.

Now, now, now. Dresses can take 6-9 months to arrive, then allow 2 months for alterations.

Date twins!!! 🥰 I have a bridal appointment on the 24th where I’ll hopefully find the one! My future wife just bought hers last weekend and they said it could take up to 6-8 months to come in.


Good luck to you if you start looking soon! I hope you find the one ☺️