Wedding Dress Shopping Outfit Dos & Don’ts
Wedding planning and dress shopping can feel a little overwhelming, so the last thing you need is to stress about what to wear to your bridal appointment! The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to have fun.
That said, a few little tips approved by someone who has seen it all, author of ‘The Wedding Dress Survival Guide’ and owner of Tilly’s bridal boutique, Siân Leyshon-Fleming, can help you avoid outfit mishaps and make the absolute most of your bridal appointment.
Here’s what to know before you step into the fitting room:
Dos
- Come prepared – bring inspo photos and as many details about your wedding theme as possible so we can help you find the perfect fit.
- Keep makeup light and fresh – so you can feel glam without leaving marks on the dresses.
- Opt for a strapless bra or no bra – the best option for trying on a range of necklines and styles.
Don’ts
- Don’t wear bright or patterned underwear – we don’t want anything to show through, distracting from the dress.
- Don’t over-accessorise – Let the dresses shine. You can add sparkle later!
- Don’t wear complicated outfits – Easy on, easy off is key when trying on multiple gowns.
“Don’t over do it with the self tan and foundation… It messes up the dresses!”
Siân Leyshon-Fleming – Owner of Tilly’s & Author of The Wedding Dress Survival Guide
What Underwear to Wear Wedding Dress Shopping
They say the secret to feeling fabulous in any outfit starts with what’s underneath, and when it comes to wedding dress shopping, that is definitely true! You want underwear that supports, flatters, and totally disappears under those dreamy gowns.
On the day of your appointment, we recommend wearing seamless, nude underwear. These beauties won’t show through delicate fabrics, distract from the gorgeous silhouettes, or steal the spotlight from your dream dress. Plus, they keep the mystery alive while giving you the smooth, confident foundation you need to say “yes” to the dress.
If you’re planning to wear shapewear on the big day, be sure to bring it with you while dress shopping. That way, you’ll get the full picture of how each gown will really look and feel when you walk down the aisle.
Many of our brides ask “should I wear a bra wedding dress shopping?”. For the best versatile fit for a range of wedding dress styles, you should wear a well fitting, nude strapless bra.
Jewellery to Wear to Your Bridal Appointment
You definitely don’t need to wear any jewellery to your bridal appointment. But if you feel a little bare without your usual sparkle, we recommend keeping it simple and sticking to the same metal tone you plan to wear on the big day. Whether that’s gold, silver, or rose gold it will give you a more realistic vision of your bridal look.
The goal is to let the dress shine and not be distracted by bold accessories just yet. Think of this as the ‘getting to know you’ stage with your gown, there’s always time to layer in extra sparkle later once you’ve found the one.
Don’t Forget the Right Shoes
Whilst we don’t expect you to have chosen your shoes before you choose your dress. It is a good idea to have an idea of what kind of heel height you’d like to wear on the big day. Try to bring a shoe of similar height along with you to get a better idea of where the dress will sit and help you visualise your look for the big day.
If flats feel more you, it’s also a good idea to bring a pair along when trying on dresses,to see if the length works for you (and covers your Converse, if that’s your thing ).
What to Bring in Your Wedding Dress Shopping Bag
Pack tissues for those happy tears when you find the one! Keep your makeup essentials handy for quick touch ups so you feel fresh and glowing throughout your entire appointment… and the celebrations after.
Bring your Pinterest board of dreams to share your style inspo and help guide your search. And pack some hair clips and bobbles in case you fancy trying an updo. They can draw attention to beautiful necklines.
With these in your bag, you’re ready for a day full of magic, memories, and celebrating.
Feel ready to say yes to your dream dress, equipped with these tips? Tilly’s Bridal Boutique stocks a range of designers and styles including a fabulous collection of plus size wedding dresses. With private appointments with a dedicated stylist where you’re sure to find the one in our Leamington Spa wedding dress shop.
Published:
Wednesday, 27th Aug 2025
Approved by:
Sian Leyshon-Fleming – Owner of Tilly’s & Author of The Wedding Dress Survival Guide