What to Wear to Try Wedding Dresses: Expert Tips for a Perfect Fitting

Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. It’s not just about trying on dresses—it’s about finding the one that makes you feel amazing and brings your wedding vision to life. Knowing what to wear and how to prepare can make the whole experience way easier and a lot more fun. 

From picking the right undergarments to deciding who to bring along, there’s a lot to think about. Don’t worry though—we’ve got all the tips you need to get ready for your appointments and focus on finding the dress of your dreams.

Prioritizing Comfort for Easy Changing 

Wedding dress shopping usually means trying on a bunch of dresses, and some of them can be heavy, fancy, or just tricky to put on. Wearing something comfy to your appointment makes the whole process so much easier and lets you stay relaxed and focused. 

When you head to your fitting, keep in mind these tips for choosing the perfect dress.

What to Wear 

• Clothes That Are Easy to Take Off 

Skip outfits with too many layers, tricky buttons, or tight materials like skinny jeans that are hard to wiggle out of. Go for something simple, like a button-down shirt or a loose top with leggings or a skirt. 

• Keep Layers to a Minimum 

You’ll be slipping in and out of multiple gowns during your appointment, so wear something simple and easy to change out of—think leggings, a loose top, and undergarments you feel good in. The goal? Maximize your comfort and minimize the hassle so you can focus on what really matters: finding the dress that feels like you.

Not sure which silhouette will look best? Our Wedding Dress Styles Guide is a great place to start before your appointment.

Choosing the Right Undergarments 

What you wear underneath your outfit can make all the difference in how dresses look when you’re trying them on. The right undergarments can create a smooth silhouette and give you a better sense of how the gown will actually fit on your big day. 

Tips for Choosing Undergarments 

• Go for Nude or Seamless Options 

Neutral-colored undergarments (like nude, white, or ivory) are essential since they won’t show through white or light-colored dresses. Seamless styles are also great for avoiding visible lines or bumps. 

• Think About Shapewear 

If you’re planning to wear shapewear on your wedding day, bring it with you to the fitting. This helps you see how the gown will truly fit and avoid any surprises later. 

• Pack a Strapless Bra 

Many wedding dresses have unique necklines, so having a strapless or convertible bra on hand is a good idea. Even if you don’t plan to wear one on your wedding day, it’s helpful for trying on dresses with styles that might need it. 

Undergarments are the foundation of how a dress fits, so having the right ones with you ensures you get a clear picture of your wedding day look.

Bring the Right Shoes 

The boutique might have a few heels you can borrow, but it’s always better to bring your own—ideally something close in height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day. Heel height affects how the dress falls and whether alterations are needed, so bringing a similar pair helps you see the full picture.

If you're visiting more than one boutique in a day, it's perfectly fine to wear something more comfortable between appointments—like supportive flats or sneakers. Just keep the wedding-height pair on hand for fittings. You’ll stay comfortable throughout the day and still get an accurate sense of how your dress will look in motion.

Keeping Accessories Minimal 

While wedding gowns are often paired with stunning accessories, the initial try-on appointments are all about the dresses themselves. 

What to Bring (and What to Keep at Home) 

• Minimal Jewelry 

Opt for simple studs or small earrings, and leave bulky necklaces and bracelets at home. You don’t want accessories getting in the way of the dresses or snagging delicate fabrics. 

• Hair Accessories 

If you plan to wear a veil, clips, or a headpiece, it can be helpful to bring one to see how it complements the gowns. 

Remember, this stage is about finding the dress. Once you've narrowed it down, you can play around with accessories later. 

Go Natural with Makeup and Hair 

Looking great for dress fittings doesn’t have to mean a full face of makeup. Wearing the right amount of makeup ensures you have a polished look without risking any accidental stains. 

Quick Tips for Makeup and Hair 

• Light and Natural 

Avoid heavy makeup that could transfer onto dresses. A little foundation, some blush, mascara, and a touch of lip balm will do the trick. 

• Secure Your Hair 

Bring hair ties or clips so you can easily adjust your hairstyle to suit different necklines. 

The goal is to enhance your natural features without creating more stress (or extra cleanup for the boutique). 

Picking the Right Company for Support 

Who you bring dress shopping can be just as important as what you wear. This moment is special and personal, so choose companions who support you and your style. 

Who to Invite 

• Limit Your Group 

Too many opinions can be overwhelming. Stick to two or three people whose advice you trust. 

• Positive Energy Only 

Choose friends or family who will uplift and encourage you during the process. 

• A Trusted Voice 

Having someone who knows your personal style can help when narrowing down options. 

Ultimately, this is your day, and your dress decision should reflect your unique personality and vision for your wedding. 

Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Brides 

Shopping for a wedding dress is such an exciting moment, and a little preparation can make the experience just as magical as you’ve dreamed. It’s like the first step in your wedding journey. With some planning, the right mindset, and a good support crew, you’ll find a dress that makes you feel amazing, confident, and ready to walk down the aisle. 

Looking for your dream wedding dress? At Blush & Ivory, we’re here to make your bridal journey effortless and exciting. Explore our stunning collection and let us help you find the perfect dress for your big day. Book your appointment—your perfect gown is waiting!