Your wedding dress timeline: When you should start shopping?

This is hands down one of the questions we get asked the most, and honestly, the answer usually takes brides by surprise.

"How long does my wedding dress take to arrive?"

A lot of brides assume that once they say yes to their dress, it's sitting in a warehouse somewhere ready to be shipped. But that's not usually how bridal works.

Most wedding dresses are made to order, meaning your gown is made specifically for you once your order is placed. From there, it needs to be cut, sewn, quality checked, and shipped before it arrives in store. It's a process, and it takes time.

So let's break it down.

STANDARD DELIVERY: 6–8 MONTHS

For most of our designers, standard delivery is around 6–8 months.

We know that sounds like a long time, but when you think about everything that goes into creating a wedding dress, it makes sense. Between the fabrics, construction, intricate detailing, and quality control, these gowns aren't mass-produced like everyday clothing.

Good things take time, and your wedding dress is definitely one of them.

NEED IT SOONER? EXPRESS MAY BE AN OPTION

If your wedding is a little closer than you'd planned, don't panic.

Many of our designers offer an express service, with delivery typically around 3–5 months, depending on the designer and style. Express fees usually apply, but it's often a great option for brides working with a shorter timeline.

The best thing to do is chat with your stylist—we'll always let you know what's possible.

SHORT ON TIME? OFF-THE-RACK IS YOUR BEST FRIEND

One of bridal's best-kept secrets? Off-the-rack gowns.

Whether it's from our main collection or our Last Chance Collection, buying off the rack means the dress is already here in store.

No waiting for production. No waiting for shipping.

If you find the one, it can often go home with you straight away.

This option is perfect for brides planning a wedding on a shorter timeline, last-minute brides, or anyone who simply doesn't want to wait months for their dress to arrive.

DON'T FORGET ABOUT ALTERATIONS

This is the part many brides don't factor in.Even once your dress arrives, you'll still need time for alterations to make sure it fits you beautifully.

Ideally, we'd recommend allowing around 2–3 months before your wedding for alterations. This gives plenty of time for fittings and any adjustments needed.

That being said, alterations can often be completed much quicker if required, so don't stress if you're cutting it a little fine.

OUR BIGGEST TIP?

Start shopping earlier than you think you need to! We recommend starting your wedding dress shopping journey around 10–12 months before your wedding and ideally having your gown ordered by 8–10 months out.

You don't need to have every detail of your wedding figured out, but having your dress sorted early takes so much pressure off later on.

And if you've left it a little late? Trust us, you're not the first bride to walk through our doors saying, "My wedding is in a few months, help!"

There are always options, and that's exactly what we're here for.

Whether you've got 18 months to go or 18 weeks, we'll help you find a dress that works for your timeline and makes you feel incredible. ✨

Brides by Francesca x