Within our modern society we can practically order anything on our phone and it will show up at our doorstep within a few days. The same now goes for wedding dresses! If you’re looking to save money on your wedding dress, online shopping for one is definitely a great place to start. Don’t worry, we have you covered with all the Do’s and Dont’s of online wedding dress shopping!

DO’s

1. Look for Try-At-Home Programs!

Has anyone actually ever bought a wedding dress they haven’t tried on before? If you’re online dress shopping, look for a company that offers a try-at-home program so you can ensure the fit and style is perfect for you. Afarose lets you pick up to 4 dresses to try on in the comfort of your own home. Click here to get started!

2. Make a Virtual Appointment with a Stylist.

Just because you’re shopping online doesn’t meant you won’t have the same luxuries as an in-person boutique. The stylists at Afarose are so excited to get on a video call with you to help you pick out dresses! Wether you have no idea where to start with wedding dress styles, or you know exactly what you want and just have a few questions on the alteration process, our virtual stylists number one goal is to get you in your dream dress. Book your appointment here!

3. Invite only people you trust.

Wether you only want to try on dresses by yourself, or with just a couple of close friends around, be sure anyone you keep around truly makes you feel good and who you can trust to give you honest opinions. Wedding dress shopping can be an emotional experience and all the support is needed.

4. Add accessories. A veil can help you picture yourself walking down the aisle.

Sometimes brides will try on so many dresses just to feel like there is no “dream dress” for them. Our favorite tip for when this happens is to add a veil. The veil will help you envision what you will look like in the dress walking down the aisle! Shop Veils here.

5. Order FREE bridesmaid dress swatches.

When buying online, it is so important to order a swatch to know exactly what shade and what texture the fabric is. You don’t want any surprises on your wedding day. Whenever you order a dress from Afarose, wether it’s to try on at home or to purchase, you can receive a couple of free bridesmaid swatches. These swatches can help you decide on your bridesmaid dress color and help you when picking out other decor for your wedding. Click here to order your free swatches!

DONT’S

1. Don't rule out any styles too soon.

They say that you always end up with the style you never thought you would love. Brides can be quick to judge a style that they have actually never tried on their body shape before. Allow our virtual stylist to give you suggestions and stay open minded to new styles!

2. Don't start shopping without a wedding date.

It is vital to know your wedding date before wedding dress shopping because some styles may take longer to create or alter than others. Afarose offers free custom sizing that can take up to 5 weeks, but that is an approximate time. If you think you need more or less adjustments, that time could change. Start shopping with enough time for this process and let your stylist know your wedding date!

3. Don't forget your wedding shoes. Ensure your dress is the correct length.

This tip is subtle, but IMPORTANT! Be sure to have your wedding shoes on while trying on dresses. A heel or no heel WILL make a difference in the way a dress lays on your figure. And you don’t want to make a mistake when sending in your measurements. Send this tip to a friend if you love them!

4. Don't order a size too small.

Lastly, don’t order a size too small. Just don’t do it. You do not need to add more stress onto your plate while wedding planning. And if for some reason you can’t reach your fitness goal by the wedding, you will be in a difficult predicament. Your body is perfect the way it is, and it is much easier to take something in, than to try and add more fabric.

We hope these tips can help all you brides out there while you’re looking for your wedding dress online! Follow us on Instagram @loveafarose to see more helpful wedding planning content.