When should I buy my wedding dress if I am losing weight?

The key is to buy early enough for delivery but not to wait until you reach your goal weight. Most bridal shops recommend ordering in your size at the time of purchase, because it is easier to take a dress in than to let it out. If you lose a lot of weight, your seamstress can alter the dress closer to the date. Aim to buy 6 to 8 months before, so you have time for the dress to arrive and for fittings.

Do not delay shopping until you are at your target weight, because that risks missing delivery deadlines. Instead, tell the shop you plan to lose weight. They can advise on how much ease the style allows. For example, corset backs and certain fabrics are more forgiving. Avoid buying a dress that is too small, hoping to shrink into it. That adds stress and may not work.

Your final fitting should be 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding. By then, your weight should be stable. If you are still losing, tell your seamstress so they can plan for a last minute adjustment. Bring the shoes and undergarments you will wear on the day. Remember that healthy weight loss is gradual, so give yourself time. The dress should fit you, not the other way round.