The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Shopping: What to Wear To Try On Wedding Dresses

Emily's heart raced as she entered the elegant boutique, her eyes scanning the rows of exquisite wedding gowns. This was the day she had been dreaming of her entire life, and now, with her mother and best friend by her side, she embarked on the monumental task of finding the perfect wedding dress. She had spent weeks researching and preparing for this day, yet one lingering question persisted: ""Do you wear a bra to wedding dress shop?""

As she browsed through the delicate lace, soft silk, and intricate embroidery, Emily couldn't help but wonder if she had made the right decision to go without a bra. While she had read countless articles and forums on the topic, the thought of trying on these gorgeous dresses without the proper undergarments made her feel vulnerable and exposed. However, the saleswoman assured her that it was perfectly normal and even recommended, as it would help her find the perfect fit for her special day.

Emily's heart swelled with emotion as she slipped into the final gown, its luxurious fabric cascading around her like a waterfall of dreams. As she stepped onto the pedestal and gazed at her reflection, a tear escaped her eye. She knew in that moment that she had found the one. And as her mother fastened the last button, she realized that the decision not to wear a bra had been the right one. The wedding dress seemed to embrace her, molding to her body like a second skin, and she felt more beautiful and confident than she ever had before. Surrounded by the ones she loved, in the gown of her dreams, Emily knew that this was just the beginning of her happily ever after.

When it comes to wedding preparations, one of the most exciting yet challenging tasks is finding the perfect wedding dress. It's a magical moment when you finally slip into the gown of your dreams, but before you even set foot in a bridal shop, there's a crucial question to answer: Do you wear a bra to wedding dress shop? In this blog, we'll explore the factors you should consider before deciding whether or not to wear a bra while trying on wedding dresses.

Comfort: What To Wear To Try On Wedding Dresses

Your comfort is essential when trying on wedding dresses, as you'll likely be spending a significant amount of time in the fitting room. Wearing a bra can provide both physical and emotional comfort, especially if you're used to wearing one daily. For instance, if you're meeting friends for coffee, you might feel more at ease wearing a bra than going without one. Likewise, wearing a bra while wedding dress shopping can give you a sense of security and familiarity, allowing you to focus on finding the perfect gown.

On the other hand, some women might find bras restrictive and uncomfortable, particularly when trying on multiple dresses. If you belong to this group, it might be worth considering going braless during your appointment. Remember that comfort is a personal preference, so listen to your body and choose what feels best for you.

Drawn from our experience, we've noticed that brides who feel comfortable during their wedding dress shopping tend to have a more enjoyable and successful experience. So, whether you decide to wear a bra or not, prioritize your comfort to ensure a smooth and enjoyable dress hunting journey.

As an example, imagine going to a theme park wearing your favorite pair of sneakers versus wearing high heels. You'd probably have a much better experience wearing comfortable shoes, allowing you to fully enjoy the park's attractions. Similarly, feeling comfortable during your wedding dress shopping can make the entire process more enjoyable and memorable.

Dress Style: Do You Wear A Bra With A Wedding Dress

The style of the wedding dress you're interested in can also influence your decision to wear a bra. Some dresses, such as those with plunging necklines or open backs, might not accommodate a traditional bra. In these cases, it would be best to try on the gown without one, or opt for a strapless or adhesive bra that works with the dress's design.

Alternatively, if the dress you have your eye on has a more conservative neckline, wearing a bra could help you get a better idea of how the gown will look and feel on your big day. For instance, if you're trying on a dress with a sweetheart neckline, wearing a strapless bra can give you a more accurate representation of the final look.

When wedding dress shopping, it's essential to consider the gown's design and neckline and choose the appropriate undergarments. By doing so, you'll be able to visualize how the dress will look on your wedding day, ensuring that you make an informed decision.

For example, think of it like trying on a pair of jeans with different types of shoes. Wearing sneakers with a pair of skinny jeans will give you an entirely different look than wearing heels. Similarly, wearing the right bra with a specific dress style can significantly impact the overall appearance of your wedding gown.

Size Availability: Do You Wear a Bra Wedding Dress Shopping

Another factor to consider when deciding whether or not to wear a bra wedding dress shopping is the availability of sizes at the bridal shop. If you have a unique or hard-to-find bra size, it might be best to wear your bra to the appointment, as the shop might not have the appropriate size available for you.

Moreover, some bridal shops may not offer a wide range of bra styles, so you might prefer to bring your favorite bra to ensure you have the support and style you're looking for. This is particularly important for brides with larger busts who need extra support, as wearing a well-fitting bra can make a significant difference in how the dress looks and feels.

On the other hand, if you have a more common bra size and are open to trying different styles, you might not need to wear a bra to your appointment. Many bridal shops offer a variety of bra styles for brides to try on, so you can experiment with different options to find the perfect fit for your dress.

When we put this to the test, we found that brides who come to their appointment prepared with their preferred bra style and size tend to have a more successful shopping experience. So, whether you choose to wear a bra or not, be sure to communicate your preferences and needs to the bridal shop staff to ensure a seamless fitting.

Dress Fit: Wedding Dress Shopping 101

The fit of your wedding dress is crucial to achieving the perfect bridal look. Wearing a bra while trying on dresses can impact the dress's fit, so it's important to consider whether or not wearing one will give you the most accurate representation of how the gown will look on your wedding day.

For example, if the dress you're trying on has built-in support or sewn-in cups, wearing a bra might not be necessary. In some cases, wearing a bra with a dress that already has built-in support can actually hinder the gown's fit, making it difficult to get an accurate idea of how the dress will look on your big day.

On the other hand, if the dress lacks built-in support or you feel more comfortable wearing a bra, it's essential to choose the right style and size. Be sure to communicate your preferences with the bridal shop staff, as they can help you find the right undergarments for your gown.

Based on our firsthand experience, we've seen that brides who carefully consider the fit of their wedding dress and the impact of their undergarments tend to make more informed decisions when selecting their gown. So, before your appointment, take some time to research the types of bras that work best with your preferred dress style, and decide whether or not wearing one will help you achieve the perfect fit.

Counter Argument: Limited Options at Wedding Dress Shops

Despite the importance of wearing the right bra while wedding dress shopping, some bridal shops may not offer a wide range of sizes, styles, and prices to meet every bride's needs. In these cases, it might be best to bring your own bra to the appointment or opt to go braless if the dress style allows for it.

Additionally, some brides may have specific preferences or requirements when it comes to their undergarments, such as needing extra support or preferring a certain style. In these instances, wearing your own bra to the appointment can ensure you have the support and comfort you need while trying on dresses.

Ultimately, the decision to wear a bra or not during your wedding dress shopping experience comes down to your personal preferences, comfort, and the dress style you're considering. By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable dress shopping experience.

For example, just like choosing the right outfit for a job interview, selecting the appropriate undergarments for your wedding dress shopping appointment can impact your overall experience and confidence. So, take the time to consider your options and choose what works best for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, deciding whether or not to wear a bra to your wedding dress appointment depends on several factors, including comfort, dress style, size availability, and the gown's fit. By carefully considering these aspects and prioritizing your preferences and needs, you can ensure a successful and enjoyable wedding dress shopping experience. If you're ready to embark on your wedding dress journey, book a fitting appointment at Bergamot Bridal or browse our online store for a wide range of dress styles. Our team of experienced bridal consultants is here to help you find the perfect gown for your special day!