Question:
“I plan on losing weight for the wedding. Should I still order a dress I like even though I do not know what size I will be for the wedding?”

Bridal Fashion Expert, RoseLynn Micari-Fiumara’s Answer:
Let’s face it ladies – most of our life, we are trying to lose weight! When a bride comes in to fit and purchase a gown, I would say that nine out of ten brides claim they’re on some sort of weight loss plan. But only two of ten actually make their goal. That is completely fine. The stresses and demands of wedding planning don’t allow one too much time to focus on losing weight.

I suggest that if you are REALLY going to lose weight you have to be realistic. 10-15 lbs is about one size for most average size (10-16) brides. Be detailed in your diet and/or workout plan with your bridal fashion consultant. Remember sometimes working out can actually increase your back/bust measurements. Therefore, if you’re advised to order a particular size, you probably should.

I never recommend ordering more than one size smaller – even though you plan to lose the weight. Bridal gowns run much smaller than regular ready-to-wear clothing. If you are a size 8, you may need to order a 12 in a bridal gown – and that’s totally normal. Gowns are also more contoured than regular clothing and remember to leave room for a bra or bra cups under your gown.

It is a myth that bridal shops encourage brides to purchase gowns in a larger size to make more money on alterations. Good seamstresses are hard to find and they are very well paid. Most shops are lucky to break even with the alteration department at the end of the year. I can tell you honestly that we would rather see a dress fit perfectly on a bride, than one so large it has to be reconstructed.

When you find the dress of your dreams, go for it. Don’t wait to lose the weight before you order. It is easier to take a gown in a size then let it out a size. Letting out seams can damage the fabric of many gowns. It is very expensive to order fabric, lace or trims to remake a bodice that was ordered too small. Do know, that if you choose to wait out the purchase of your dream gown, you risk the gown becoming discontinued or having to deal with ‘rush order’ fees.

What’s the worst that could happen? You order your dress at your current size, you get to your goal weight, you look great and the gown has to be taken in! Hooray!