How to Shop Like a Stylist: Busting Bridal Myths & Making the Most of Your Consultation
From the stylists who’ve seen it all — and still get goosebumps when you find “the one.”
Let’s be real: the world of wedding dress shopping comes with a lot of myths. From Hollywood-style “yes!” moments to the idea that you have to cry or bring a squad of ten, it’s no wonder some brides walk into their consultation overwhelmed before we even unzip the first gown.
Here’s the truth: finding your dress should feel empowering, not pressure-packed. So let’s bust some outdated bridal myths and give you our stylist-approved tips to get the most out of your consultation — and actually enjoy the process.
MYTH #1: “You have to try on all the dresses.”
TRUTH: No, you do not. You just have to try on the right ones.
As stylists, we’re trained to read silhouettes, fabric drape, and how certain designs interact with posture, movement, and most importantly, personality. You don’t need to exhaust yourself with 40 gowns. In fact, that’s a sure-fire way to give yourself FOMO even when you’ve already found the one. Life is too short to keep second-guessing yourself, so don’t cloud your judgment. Instead, opt for a few intentional, well-chosen looks that speak your language. And of course, choose the bridal boutiques accordingly.
Stylist Tip: Come in with a mood, not a mandate. We’ll help you translate that into silhouettes that actually work for your body and your vibe.
MYTH #2: “You’ll just ‘know’ when you cry.”
TRUTH: You might cry. You might laugh. You might just feel a really calm, quiet yes. All of it is valid.
The idea that your dream dress has to elicit waterworks is outdated. What really matters? That you feel powerful, beautiful, and like yourself turned up to 11.
Stylist Tip: Ditch the rom-com expectations. Let’s focus on how the dress makes you feel in your gut, not what it looks like in someone else’s highlight reel. As stylists, we’ll be there to pressure test your feelings so you always feel attuned to what’s best for you.
MYTH #3: “More people = more fun.”
TRUTH: More people usually = more opinions. And that gets loud fast.
Bringing a massive entourage might sound fun until you’re trying to decode five conflicting reactions. Instead, bring the people who truly get you, the ones who support your choices, not second-guess them. If you found out the hard way that the entourage is inhibiting your vibe, then take stock by yourself, come back again, solo. You can always reintroduce your nearest and dearest at a time when you feel in control.
Stylist Tip: If your inner circle is too opinionated, come solo for the first appointment. Find the dress, then invite them back for the reveal.
MYTH #4: “If it’s not what you pictured, it’s not the one.”
TRUTH: The dress you fall for might totally surprise you.
You’re allowed to change your mind. In fact, it’s often the “wild card” gown — the one outside your comfort zone — that makes you feel like you in a whole new way. But here’s the nuance, oftentimes people will tell you to try on absolutely everything, and that’s the thing, this too can also lead to confusing your buying journey. Do the work to pressure test what you feel you want, and let the stylist use their expertise to recommend when the time is right. If in doubt, ask for advice too in your appointment.
Stylist Tip: When we pull something left-field, we’re not ignoring your style — we’re reading between the lines. Simultaneously, trust the process whilst trusting your gut.
MYTH #5: “You need that glass of bubbly to loosen up.”
TRUTH: Maybe that bubbly is confusing you.
We’re a no alcohol studio, which was a conscious decision we made a long time ago. Sometimes, that allure of the glamorous glass of bubbly can take over the appointment and cloud exactly how you feel about the dress. Think about it this way, you’re making an expensive purchase, therefore it’s wise to keep it. clear head when doing so.
Stylist Tip: We have both still and sparkling water on and an endless supply of Lovehearts, but make sure to eat before your appointments, as you might find yourself tired by the end of your dress shopping day.
MYTH #6: “You need the right shoes and a full face of makeup to make the right decision.”
TRUTH: Just no!
Just your normal everyday makeup is fine! No, you don’t need that tan either. You’ll be trying on samples which are either going to be a bit too big or a little bit small - you’re going for what gives you the right feel, not what looks picture perfect from the get-go. Having a full face of makeup isn’t going to suddenly help you visualise how the dress will feel. As for shoes, all dresses will be altered depending on your height and shoes later down the line. So, unless you have a very specific shoe in mind and want to bring them, there’s no need to bring shoes with you. We have lots of heels for you to try on in your appointment.
Stylist Tip: Make sure you feel comfortable, that’s what matters. If in doubt, ask your bridal party not to take pictures of your face when taking shots of the dress, and the same goes for selfies, too.
How to Actually Shop Like a Stylist: Our No-BS Tips
1. Prep With Purpose
Wear nude, seamless underwear. A strapless bra if you like. If you’re planning on shapewear, bring it. It’s not about being “photo-ready” — it’s about fit, support, and making the try-on feel closer to the real thing.
2. Know Your Wedding Vibe
Make sure to book in the pre-consultation zoom before your appointment to tell us about your venue, season, and the mood you’re going for. We don’t need a theme, just a sense of the story. Are we channelling “cool minimalist rooftop” or “romantic Tuscan villa”? The more context, the better our pulls.
3. Speak Up
We want your honest reactions. Hate a neckline? Say so. Love a fabric? Tell us. Your feedback helps us zero in quickly — no judgment, no apologies.
4. Don’t Apologise for Your Body
This is a no-body-shaming zone. Every body is a bridal body. We’re here to highlight what you love and make you feel amazing - full stop.
5. Be Ready to Say Yes (Even if It’s Your First Appointment)
You don’t have to say yes. But be open to it. Your dream dress might show up sooner than you think. Being emotionally and financially ready means you won’t miss the moment when it feels right. This also means discussing the budget before the budget with whoever is purchasing the dress (if it isn’t yourself) is key.
Last Word From Your Stylists
Bridal styling isn’t about trends or rules — it’s about you. We’re not here to box you into a look. We’re here to champion your style, challenge the clichés, and help you discover the dress that feels unapologetically right.
So let go of the myths. Forget the noise. And get ready to shop like a stylist.
Your dream dress isn’t just waiting — it’s ready for you to own it.