Ask the expert | Rachel Scott Couture tackles wedding dress shopping by numbers
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Numbers. We are all obsessed with them, from the number of followers you have on Instagram or TikTok, to getting that new ‘PB’ on your workout, to the number of calories you have consumed that day (and no, we don’t think you need to squeeze into that smaller dress size!).
No matter the brand, the style, or the occasion we all worry about numbers… even for our wedding day.
Without fail, whenever a bride walks into our store, there are always numbers on their mind, whether it be dress size, age, budget or timeframes.
We have been conditioned to pay great attention to some numbers, but in all honesty, they often don’t mean anything when it comes to your dress shopping experience.
So, I’m going to lay it all out for you, what numbers matter and what really don’t when it comes to finding your dream wedding dress.
‘Noa’ by Danielle Frankel
Don’t let dress size dictate your vision!
It’s no surprise that the most common number brides get fixated on is dress size.
We have, in recent years, become much more aware of sizing and its lack of consistency and inclusivity across brands, countries and markets.
It makes something as simple as buying a pair of jeans near impossible.
Through years of buying high street clothing, we have all become experts in fudging the lines of fit.
You might rule out certain styles due to ill-fitting seams, waistlines sitting too high or low, or opt for fabrics with stretch to accommodate a bust and hips.
One thing we hear far too often is ‘I’d love to wear that but not with my figure’.
Now imagine, instead of having to buy a style or size that compensates for the lack of perfect fit, you could have something made to your exact measurements and the way you actually want it to be – suddenly all those limitations are eradicated!
We are also often asked ‘What style would you suggest for my shape?’ and that is something I simply do not subscribe to, especially because we don’t need to worry about it when size isn’t an issue.
My team and I have a diverse fashion background ranging from textiles to tailoring to garment design, and the one thing we can all agree on is that a dress size really means nothing these days.
From one brand and designer to another, sizing is already drastically different, with different size charts, construction methods and fabrics all playing a part.
One reason we love working with the designers that we do is that we can opt to go fully made to measure with our dresses, meaning there are zero compromises!
For us, making something fit is just a technicality, so your style options really become limitless!
From the Halfpenny London design room
Age is just a number
Now we definitely don’t do these numbers!
We often hear the words ‘older’ or ‘mature’ bride, but I want to make it clear that you are just a bride!
And actually, we love this demographic, because they are often less driven by fads and trends, knowing exactly what they don’t want – which helps us to find exactly what they do.
We very much believe in a wedding dress matching a bride’s personality as opposed to any predetermined idea of what is appropriate for a ‘mature bride’.
Similar to when brides ask the, ‘What dress should I wear for my body shape?’ question, it really isn’t as simple as ticking boxes.
And let’s be honest, where would be the fun in that?!
Timeframes
You might have heard the horror stories of, ‘You haven’t found your dress yet? You need to have bought it at least a year in advance!’
Well, I can’t speak for all bridal shops and designers but I know that our quickest ever turnaround, from order to delivery, was one week for an entirely made to order dress.
I’m not suggesting that you plan to leave it that late, but my point is not to let anyone rush your decision, and make you think you need to order something you aren’t 100% sure of just to avoid walking down the aisle in your birthday suit!
Budget
One of the most important numbers for you and us to help you find the right dress, but one that people often feel uncomfortable talking about.
First of all, this is a no judgement zone!
This is just as important for us to know as if you need to have your arms covered to hide a tattoo, or if you are allergic to silk.
This is one that we need to know to be able to steer you in the right direction and get you your dream dress in the most logical way for you and your budget.
Appointments and who to bring
We always tell our brides to bring whoever they need to be able to make the best decision for them.
This can be drastically different for everyone.
Some brides will want their entire bridal party and close family to be a part of the process, needing that feedback to feel secure in their decision, whilst others
would find that entirely overwhelming!
At the other end of the spectrum, some brides prefer a more focussed approach opting to have an appointment on their own so they can be super-efficient and
work out the right direction for them, before inviting friends and family to share their opinions.
For this reason, we don’t like to impose any rules when booking in to try dresses, and are extra flexible with our appointment options, from early morning to late evening, seven days a week to allow you to find a time that suits you and anyone else you need at your appointment!
In terms of actually making your decision, everyone is entirely unique, and some people might choose their dress instantly and can wrap everything up in one appointment, whilst others might need two, three of four to find that sweet spot.
Measurements
Your measurement appointment is going to give the designer everything they need to be able to make your dress from scratch to fit perfectly.
We are definitely conditioned to be afraid of this word and probably avoid it at all costs, but in exactly the same way as dress size means nothing, this is just a tool to get you your dream dress!
Measurements do NOT have to be taken on the day of your purchase either!
We always tend to hold off until much closer to your wedding date, so that we’re as accurate as possible and you’re not worrying.
So don’t put off finding your dress to slim into a smaller size, or ‘get into shape’, because you really have to love your dress exactly as you are – and changes to your shape or size will be accounted for in your dress timeline.
How many fittings will you need?
Ah, fittings, the homestretch in your wedding dress experience!
We are very lucky to have a fabulous seamstress in-house, who will take care of any last little nips and tucks.
These are usually small alterations that can account for any changes needed to make your dress fit precisely and effortlessly!
You might wonder why you would need something like this when you have ordered a made to measure gown, and quite simply it comes down to the fact that we are all a little wonky from everyday living.
For example, one shoulder might need to be slightly tighter than the other to keep it in place, or your weight might have changed slightly since your measurements were taken.
At the very least, you usually need your hem to be taken up to the perfect length for your wedding shoes.
‘Andi’ by Danielle Frankel
The most important number?
Remember the most important number at the end of the day is number one, YOU, the bride!
Do what is best for you and what will make you look and feel the best version of yourself on your big day.
