Busting Bridal Myths: Wedding Dress Shopping Myths Debunked
- Missy
- Sep 16
- 3 min read
Shopping for your wedding dress should be one of the most exciting moments of your bridal journey, but along the way, you might hear some “advice” that isn’t exactly accurate. At Ivory & Main, we’ve seen it all: well-meaning friends, outdated ideas, and even myths passed down from appointment to appointment that can leave brides confused or second-guessing themselves. The truth is, the right gown is out there for you, but understanding what isn’t true can make the process smoother and a lot more fun. Let’s break down some of the most common myths we hear during bridal appointments, and share the truth you really need to know.
Myth #1: “You have time. So go home and think about it and call back in a few weeks” (even though you’re only 6 months out from your wedding date)
The Truth: You do not have as much time as you think to decide on a gown. Yes, we may be a year out from your wedding, and that is PLENTY of time. However, it can take up to 10 months for your gown to be made and delivered to the store. Plus, we need to reserve some time for alterations — around 6-8 weeks. SO, it is not as much time as you originally may have thought!
Our Advice: if you know it’s the one, commit to it! No need to wait and risk not getting it in time for alterations OR having the dress be discontinued (which happens more frequently than you would think)
Myth #2: “Size down a few sizes since you might lose weight. The seamstress can always let the dress out a few sizes.”
The Truth: DO NOT SIZE DOWN YOUR DRESS! We can take in dresses, but we cannot let them out!! The only option you will be left with if you size down and it doesn’t fit is to add a corset (which ultimately changes the whole look of the gown AND can be costly in alterations).
Our Advice: If you plan on losing weight, be honest about it with your stylist, and we can come up with a game plan together.
Myth #3: “They can just close the plunge neckline in alterations.”
The Truth: Physically closing a plunge is impossible! The dress is cut to have a plunge; by attaching those seams, you will create a bubble in the fabric beneath the plunge around the stomach area that is not so flattering. Our only option to fix the plunge will be to cover it up with appliqué (which does look beautiful and is a wonderful option!)
Our Advice: Ask your stylist and make sure you are fully educated on how your alterations will work BEFORE saying yes to your dress.
Myth #4: “They can just change the shape of the dress/the features you don’t like in alterations.”
The Truth: Majority of the time, if you want to change the shape of your dress… It’s just not your dress. And that’s okay!! Don’t commit to a gown that needs major reconstruction to be the one. Altering the dress too much will only have you spending way too much money on alterations, and you will NOT be 100% certain of how the dress will look when it’s done. (Plus, certain things are just not even possible to change…like turning a halter top into a strapless!)
Our Advice: It is important to always tell your stylist what you would change about the dress, and they will find your dream gown that fits the criteria you are looking for!
At the end of the day, your bridal appointment is about finding a gown that makes you feel incredible, not about following myths or outdated “rules.” Being informed, honest with yourself (and your stylist), and open to the process is the best way to ensure you say “yes” to the dress with confidence. Remember, your dream gown doesn’t need major alterations, a size gamble, or endless overthinking. It just needs to feel like you. At Ivory & Main, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, so you can skip the myths and start making memories.
Ready to find your dream wedding dress? Book your appointment here.
Comments