Going to your final fitting is just the beginning. Going properly prepared is mandatory.
Wear your wedding day lingerie: You won’t be surprised that wearing the right bra is essential, but so is wearing the right panties and pantyhose. You need to be certain that there is no tell-tale line.
Wear your wedding day shoes: The length has to be ideal to a fraction of an inch and this is only possible if you are wearing the right shoes. When you are properly under-garmented, you’re ready to check out every detail about the fit of the dress.
Start with the shoulders: It’s useless to fuss about the length first because if the shoulders need some altering, it will affect the length.
Check around the armholes: You want to ensure they are snug enough and won’t shift to show brassiere straps. However, beware them being too tight, because tight areas inevitably result in bulging flesh.
Check out the bust line: Breasts, waist and hips are what largely determine your basic figure, so see that the dress fits perfectly over the bust.
Check the waist: Your gown may have a natural waist and, if so, see that it precisely matches your own waist. It may have a drop waist, which allows a little leeway for error. Either way, you want the line to be flattering.
Check the hips: If your gown has a full skirt, you’re pretty much home free. But if you have a slim-fitting gown, such as a fit-and-flare, mermaid, drop waist or sheath, a fit over the hips should be smooth but comfortable. Try sitting and getting up several times to see if you are allowing for comfort and movement.
Check the length: Finally, it’s time to check the all-important length. Movement is required to
ensure that you don’t trip over a too-long skirt.
When you choose and order your dress, enquire about any details in regard to the fitting.
- What is the charge for alterations?
- What is the turn-around time?
- Does the shop have an in-house seamstress or are changes farmed out?
Ask lots of questions and make plenty of notes so there are no surprises.
Originally published in Today’s Bride magazine, Fall/Winter 2015.
