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Moira Hughes Couture ‘Pearl’ dress

Finding your perfect gown can be very time consuming and very emotional – is it the “right one”? Did I like the one I tried on yesterday better? Was it a better style for me? What about the colour? Moira Hughes Couture understands that the experience of finding your dream gown can be very overwhelming and we would like to give you some tips to make your choice an easy – and happy – one!

1. Who Should You Go To For Your Dream Wedding Dress?

Have a look at websites and the social media of the boutiques you have in mind. If you choose the three you feel most drawn to, you will ensure the best experience and avoid being overwhelmed

Ask for recommendations from recently married friends and read reviews. That way, you can make sure the service and experience match what you are looking for.

2. What Style Of Wedding Dress Is Best?

Be open minded when trying on dresses. You might be surprised by what suits your figure! Don’t worry about matching your dress to your venue or what your bridesmaids are wearing; just choose what you feel incredible in and this will shine through.

Be true to yourself. Sometimes others opinions can sway you but if you feel more comfortable in a dress with straps then stick to it!

If you have a very clear idea of what you want in terms of style, budget or details  let the designer know from the beginning so your experience is tailored to your needs.

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Moira Hughes Couture custom ‘Indianna’ dress

3. Where To Go To Find Your Perfect Wedding Gown?

Ask for recommendations from your friends.

Read reviews – most of the time these can give you a feel for how the designer operates.

Travelling to a boutique? Make sure it is somewhere you are happy to visit; are you prepared to travel a long distance for multiple fittings?

Make appointments in advance with your chosen boutiques.

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Moira Hughes Couture ‘Willow’ dress

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Moira Hughes Couture ‘Pearl’ dress

4. When Do You Start Looking? 

Most brides book the venue and set a date before finding their dress. This gives you a good timeline on how long you have until the big day.

If you’re having a gown custom designed for you, most designers will recommend you start looking about a year to 8 months in advance.

Set a time limit. Allow yourself a few weeks to find your gown. Giving you enough time to try different gowns but not so many it becomes overwhelming.

5. How Do You Prepare For The Boutique Appointment?

Feel good about yourself when you visit. If you want to wear makeup, your favourite heels or seamless underwear, do so.

If you have some ideas for your hair preferences, have a rough version done to get a feel for the overall look.

Bring one or two trusted opinions, or feel free to go on your own. Most brides find it more enjoyable with fewer friends in the first consultation.

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Images via Moira Hughes Couture

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Ms Chinoiserie Says: Some fabulous advice; particularly about what style of dress is best  – and how long it can take a dress to be designed!

About Moira Hughes: You can ask a woman of any age or nationality what her wedding dress looked like and 50 years later she will be able to tell you every detail. That’s why I love bridal, the whole experience. It is so special to be involved in making a woman feel more incredible than she ever thought possible.