All brides-to-be desire a smooth-sailing wedding planning experience and wedding day, especially when it comes to the wedding dress. And while we all wish and hope for zero problems and accidents, sometimes they can’t be avoided. Common wedding gown problems can range from fit issues to unexpected mishaps on the big day, but you definitely can take precautionary steps that will help you avoid these. Here are some common wedding gown problems and tips on how to avoid them.
Poor Fit
A dress that doesn’t fit well can be uncomfortable and affect the overall look. So whether you’re having a custom wedding gown made or renting one, ensure that it fits you very well.
Tip: Start alterations early and choose a reputable tailor to ensure a proper fit. Consider your body changes, and schedule a final fitting close to the wedding date.
[From: A Classy White Wedding with a Banquet at Giando Italian Restaurant & Bar / Photo: Jeff Lee Pictures]
Last-Minute Alteration Issues
Rushed alterations can lead to mistakes and a less-than-perfect fit.
Tip: Plan ahead and schedule fittings well in advance. Allow ample time for any necessary adjustments. If you really can’t avoid a last-minute alteration, be extra vigilant with the changes but also help your vendor in whatever way; work as a team to get the changes done quickly and accurately.
[From: Classic Elegance Fills This All-White Hotel Wedding / Photo: Aupho Wedding]
Stains and Spills
Accidents happen, and stains on your dress can be stressful. Wearing an immaculate white dress means that any stain or spill will be very visible.
Tip: Be cautious with food and drinks, and assign someone to help you manage the dress during the day. Have a stain removal kit on hand and practice stain removal techniques beforehand on other white garments. This way, you will be able to clean up easily in the event that you have a stain on your wedding day.
[From: A Charming Baby Blue Outdoor Garden Wedding / Photo: Jeremy Wong Weddings]
Weather-Related Issues
Weather changes can impact your dress, especially if it’s too hot, cold, or rainy.
Tip: Be mindful of the weather and the season on your planned wedding date. Have a shawl or wrap for colder temperatures and consider a shorter dress or protective measures for wet weather. If it will be hot, look into the right wedding dress fabric that will keep you cool throughout the day.
[From: A Romantic Hong Kong Wedding with The Most Stunning Floral Decorations / Photo: KC Chan Photography]
Makeup and Hair Stains
It’s common to take preparation photos and videos during the wedding. This means you’ll change into your dress with your makeup and hair done. If you have a second or third wedding look, you’ll also change with hair and makeup done. If you’re not careful, you may end up with stains on your dress.
Tip: Use a cloth or sheet to protect the dress during the process and place a cloth or sheet over your face when changing to avoid makeup contact with the your wedding gown.
[From: A Romantic Misty Wedding Day at The Peak Lookout / Photo: MC Photography]
Undergarment Visibility
Visible bra straps or undergarments can detract from the dress and ruin your wedding day look. You also don’t want anything else peeping especially if you have very low necklines or low-back dress designs.
Tip: Choose undergarments carefully and consider built-in options. Test them with your dress to ensure they are not visible. Move around when you test the dress and undergarments or built-in options to see if you’re comfortable and to ensure everything is in place.
[From: A Scenic and Romantic Wedding at Amtarda Overlooking the Mountains / Photo: White Label Photo]
Transportation Issues
Getting your dress to the venue without wrinkles or damage can be a challenge, too.
Tip: Use a garment bag for transport and consider professional steaming at the venue. Plan for a safe and spacious place to hang the dress upon arrival. If your wedding gown designer or bridal shop offers to transport the dress for you, you can go for this option so they can also ensure the dress arrives in tip top condition.
[From: A Sophisticated and Stylish Wedding at The Peninsula Hong Kong / Photo: Jeff Lee Pictures]
Bustle Malfunctions
The bustle of a wedding gown can be complex and malfunctions can occur during the reception.
Tip: If your wedding dress has a bustle, practice moving around with it with your bridesmaids during the final fitting. Consider a simple bustle design or have a professional show you and your attendants how to fix it if in case it malfunctions after moving around.
[From: This Church Wedding is Filled With Delicate Colors and Elegant Details / Photo: Hyvis Tong Photography]
Overlooking Comfort
Finally, being uncomfortable in your dress can affect your enjoyment of the day.
Tip: So aside from choosing the most gorgeous dream wedding dress out there, don’t overlook comfort. Prioritize comfort when choosing a dress. Consider factors like weight, movement, and breathability.
[From: A Charming Teal Outdoor Garden Wedding at One-Thirtyone / Photo: The Hour Gallery]
Remember, preparation and planning are key to avoiding many wedding dress problems. Having a support team, including bridesmaids and a wedding coordinator, can also help address any unexpected issues that may arise on the big day.
