Preparing for Your Wedding Dress Appointment
What to wear, what to bring and what happens on the day.
You don't need to have it all figured out before your appointment. Come in with an open mind and we'll take it from there. Here are the few things that help, from what to wear to getting here.
What to wear
Nude, seamless underwear works best under lace and light fabrics. Most wedding dresses have support built in, so you may not need a bra. If you'd like to wear one, choose a strapless or nude style.
Skip fake tan and body lotion on the day, and keep your make-up light, as they can all mark the dresses. Wear something easy to take on and off, because you'll change a few times.
Bring guests whose opinion you truly value, and come with an open mind.AnnabelSenior Bridal Stylist
What to bring
- Photos of dresses you like. Screenshots on your phone are fine. If you've spotted one of our dresses online, send us the picture or style number when you book and we'll make sure it's here for you.
- Your wedding date. Even a rough one helps us advise you on timings.
- A rough budget. We can recommend dresses in your budget once we know what you're looking for.
- Your wishlist. Save dresses to your wishlist as you browse our website and show your stylist on the day.
- Your phone. Photos and videos are encouraged.
That's it; we take care of everything else.
Who to bring
You can bring two guests on a Saturday, and up to three Sunday to Friday. Choose the people whose opinion matters most to you. Our sales are usually on Saturdays, so it's two guests there too, and sale appointments last 45 minutes.
We kindly ask that children do not attend appointments. Your guests are welcome to take photos.
"Bring one or two people you trust. Your first appointment is about figuring out what you feel your best in. Too many opinions can cloud your judgement that early in the search."
What happens in your appointment
Bridal appointments last 75 minutes with your own stylist, who sees nobody else during that time. We start with a chat about your wedding plans and what you're looking for. Then we choose dresses together: the ones you've picked, plus a few you might not have.
"Try on things you would never normally consider. Eight times out of ten, that is the dress."
TaniaBridal ConsultantNobody here is on commission, so the advice you get is honest. Take photos, ask questions and enjoy it. There's no obligation to make a decision on the day.
You will only know if it's the one when you try it on, in the light, moving around in it.
A word about bridal sizes
Bridal sizes run one to two sizes smaller than the high street, so the number on the label may surprise you. Don't worry about it: we measure you and order the size closest to your measurements. Read more about wedding dress sizes.
If you find your dress
Our made-to-order gowns are ordered from the designer in the size closest to your measurements. Special orders take up to five months to arrive. We take a 50% deposit when you order, and the balance when your dress arrives.
Your first fitting is 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding, here in the boutique with our own seamstresses. Most brides need two to three fittings. See how our in-house alterations work.
Wedding soon? Our off the peg dresses are ready to take home the same day. Tell us your date and we'll let you know what's possible.
Getting here
We're at 203 Walworth Road, London SE17 1RL, a 5 to 10 minute walk from Elephant and Castle station. If you're driving, the closest car parks are Morrisons at 264 Walworth Road and Southwark's Wadding Street car park, SE17 3BA.
Our opening hours are in the footer and on our contact page. If you need a hand finding us on the day, call 020 7703 6796.
Questions
Do I need to bring shoes?
No. We have heels in the boutique for you to try dresses with. Once you've bought your wedding shoes, bring them to your fittings.
Can I bring more people?
For a bigger group, our Private VIP appointment gives you the boutique to yourself, with up to six of your closest people.
What if I don't find a dress?
That's fine; many brides visit more than once. If you'd like to try your favourites again, book a shorter Retry appointment.
