We recommend ordering your wedding dress nine to twelve months before your wedding. Start booking bridal appointments earlier, so you have time to explore different styles and choose. Once you have found your DAMA dress, your boutique orders it from us in your selected size. Ask your boutique how to arrange the fittings and any alterations before collection.
If your wedding is sooner, contact a boutique and explain your date before booking. Ask about sample dresses and any styles currently available from stock.
How far in advance should I buy my wedding dress?
Aim to place your order nine to twelve months before the wedding. Your boutique can explain the options for your date and help you choose the appropriate size. The recommendation is a guide for planning your purchase; your boutique will confirm the arrangements for your particular dress.
Begin by browsing styles, setting a budget and booking appointments. Our guide to wedding dress costs explains what to include in your budget.
A timeline from your first appointment to collection
| Stage | What to plan |
|---|---|
| Before you order | Set your budget, save the names of dresses you like and book appointments. Ask which styles and sample sizes are available to try on. |
| Nine to twelve months before the wedding | Choose your dress and place the order. Your boutique will help you select the size and confirm any agreed changes to the design. |
| Once your dress arrives | Confirm how to arrange your fitting and any alterations. Bring the shoes and underwear you plan to wear. |
| During alterations | Attend your agreed fitting appointments. Check the length, fit and how comfortably you can move. |
| Before collection | Have the final fitting at the agreed time. Confirm any last adjustments and ask how to transport and store your dress. |
When should my final wedding dress fitting be?
Discuss the timing with your boutique. It should leave room for any final adjustments while allowing you to check the fit close to your wedding. Bring your wedding shoes and underwear, and any accessories that affect how the dress is worn. Walk, sit down and raise your arms so you can check how it feels in movement.
When should I buy my wedding dress if I am pregnant?
Tell the boutique that you are pregnant when you book and share your wedding date. Ask which designs offer the room and comfort you want, and discuss size selection and alterations together. An empire waist or a flowing A-line may be a useful starting point to try. Discuss the timing of fittings and how to allow for changes in fit.
What if my wedding is in three months?
Contact a boutique as soon as you can and ask what is available for your date. A sample dress or a style already in stock may be an option. Ask about the available size, its condition, the alterations needed and when you could collect it. The boutique can then help you decide which possibilities are practical for you.
If you are considering a sample, our wedding dress price guide explains what to check before comparing the cost.
What should I bring to my first bridal appointment?
Bring a few photographs or the names of dresses you like, together with your wedding date and an idea of your budget. If you know the heel height you plan to wear, bring suitable shoes. Ask the boutique what underwear it recommends for trying on its dresses.
Choose one or two people whose opinions you trust, and check the boutique’s guest policy. Whatever your usual dress size, ask which sample sizes and styles will be available at your appointment.
Where can I book a bridal appointment?
Use our store finder to contact a DAMA stockist near you. Browse the collection and mention your favourite designs when you book. If you would like help choosing which cuts to try, read which wedding dress suits you.