On your wedding day, all eyes are going to be on you, which means that you want to look your absolute best. You find the perfect dress, but in order for it to look absolutely incredible on you, the dress has to be fitted to your body. Wedding gowns aren’t made to fit you perfectly right off the hanger; they need to be taken in, let out, shortened…

In order to ensure your wedding gown fits you perfectly, you have to have it fitted. In order to ensure your fitting goes well, and that a dress that fits you perfectly, here are some important things to know about your wedding dress fitting.

How long will it take and what should you expect?

You will likely need to have three fittings in order to ensure that the gown is properly sculpted to your body and that it fits properly. The first fitting will last about an hour. During this fitting, you will meet the fitter who will be assisting you through the process. The gown will be pinned and tucked so that it is sculpted to your body. After that appointment, the dress will be altered. At the second fitting, you will try on the dress again to see if any adjustments need to be made. The third fitting will ensure that the dress is fitted perfectly to your body. This is usually the final fitting.

When should the fitting occur?

Generally, you will be contacted about 10 weeks before your wedding date to schedule your first fitting. The second and third fittings are done closer to the date of your wedding to ensure that the dress fits you perfectly.

What should you wear to your fitting?

Bring the shoes and undergarments that you will be wearing on your wedding day to the fitting. Doing so will allow the fitter to obtain the proper fit for your gown.

Can anything be done if the bride loses or gains weight after the dress has been altered?

If you lose or gain weight, don’t fret! The gown can either be taken in or let out so until it fits you perfectly. Your seamstress will be an expert at measuring your gown and modifying it so that it will fit your body like a glove. If you gain weight, the seams can be opened and extra fabric can be added. If you lose weight, fabric can be removed and new seams can be made.

Is it OK to purposely purchase a dress that is the wrong size and have it altered?

Brides often think that it’s OK to purchase a dress that is the wrong size for one reason for another; for instance, they may think that they will lose weight. However, this is not a good idea. If you purchase a dress that is too far off your size, altering it may dramatically change the entire look of the gown. If you do buy a dress that is the wrong size, your best bet is to purchase one that is bigger than your actually size, as it is easier to take in than let out.

Move Around

While having your dress fitted, make sure you really move around in it. Walk, dance and sit. Wear it for a while at your fitting. You are going to be wearing the gown the entire day and you want to make sure that you are comfortable. Moving around in it after it is adjusted will allow you to determine if it you will be comfortable on the most important day of your life.