What to Wear (and Bring) Wedding Dress Shopping: Your Bridal Appointment Checklist
You booked your bridal appointment. Now the questions start. What should you wear? Do you need special shoes? Who should come with you?
We walk brides through their first try-on at our private studio in German Village every week. A little preparation makes a big difference. Here's exactly what to wear and bring wedding dress shopping, so you can relax and focus on finding the one.
What to wear wedding dress shopping
Nude, seamless underwear. Skin-tone underwear won't show through lighter fabrics or lace. Skip anything with bold colors or patterns. A thong or seamless brief gives you the cleanest look in fitted silhouettes.
A strapless bra (or none at all). Many of our gowns have built-in support or open backs. A strapless bra or sticky nipple covers lets you see the neckline and back of each gown as it's meant to look. If you're unsure, bring two options and our stylists will help you decide.
Easy-on, easy-off clothes. You'll change several times. A button-down, a wrap dress or a zip-up top is easier than a pullover, and it protects your hair and makeup.
Hair and makeup like your wedding day (if you can). You don't need to go full glam. But a bit of makeup and a hairstyle close to your plan helps you picture the final look. If you're thinking an updo, bring a hair tie or clip.
Skip heavy self-tanner and dark lipstick. These can transfer onto delicate fabrics. Our sample gowns are worn by many brides, and we work hard to keep them beautiful for each one.
What to bring to your bridal appointment
Shoes with your wedding-day heel height. If you already have your shoes, bring them. If not, bring a pair close to the height you plan to wear for length measurements.
Shapewear, if you plan to wear it. Bring what you'd actually wear on the day so the fit is true.
Inspiration photos. Save a few gowns you love on your phone. Pinterest boards and Instagram saves are perfect. Gowns you don't love are just as helpful.
Your wedding details. Your date, venue and season shape our recommendations. A November wedding at a downtown Columbus venue calls for something different than a summer garden ceremony.
A realistic budget. Knowing your range helps us pull the right gowns from our designers.
Water and a snack. Trying on gowns is more work than it looks!
Who to bring wedding dress shopping
Keep your group small. Two or three people whose opinions you trust is the sweet spot. Too many voices can make it harder to hear your own.
Our private appointments mean you'll have the studio to yourself, so your group can relax, too.
A tip from our stylists: bring the people who know you, not just the people who love weddings.
What to expect at a private bridal appointment
Before you arrive, one of our stylists will reach out to learn about your vision, your wedding and your style. That way, we've already pulled gowns we think you'll love when you walk in.
During your appointment, you'll try on gowns from designers you won't find anywhere else in Ohio, including KYHA, Sarah Seven, Lihi Hod, Suzanne Neville and Alyssa Kristin. Our stylists will help with every gown, explain how each one is made, and walk you through ordering and alterations timelines.
When to start wedding dress shopping
We recommend starting 10 to 12 months before your wedding. Designer gowns are made to order, and you'll want time for alterations. Read our full wedding dress shopping timeline for the details.
Book your bridal appointment in Columbus
Ready to find your gown? Book a private appointment at our German Village studio. We'd love to help you say yes.
FAQ
What should I wear to try on wedding dresses? Wear nude, seamless underwear and a strapless bra/sticky covers. Choose clothes that are easy to change in, like a button-down or wrap dress, and keep makeup light to protect the gowns.
Do I need to bring shoes to my bridal appointment? Nope! Most brides end up barefoot! Taking shoes on and off for each gown can be tiring. It might be helpful to bring shoes in the heel height you plan to wear that day in case you need to take a length measurement.
How many people should I bring wedding dress shopping? Two or three trusted people is ideal. A smaller group makes it easier to hear your own opinion.
How long does a bridal appointment take? Most of our appointments last 90. That gives you time to try on several gowns without feeling rushed.
Should I wear makeup wedding dress shopping? Light makeup helps you picture your wedding-day look. Skip heavy foundation, self-tanner and dark lipstick, which can transfer onto the gowns.
How far in advance should I shop for a wedding dress? Start 10 to 12 months before your wedding. Designer gowns are made to order and need time for production and alterations.
Where can I find a private bridal appointment in Columbus? Brick + Ivory offers fully private bridal appointments at our studio in German Village, with exclusive designers including KYHA, Sarah Seven, Lihi Hod, Suzanne Neville and Alyssa Kristin.
