17 Wedding Dress Diagrams That Will Simplify Your Shopping

Buying the dress just got easier.

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1. Consider factors like budget and location, among others.

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If you're dying for a ball gown dress, you might want to reconsider a beach wedding. Plan out your priorities so you don't get overwhelmed while shopping.

2. Make a budget checklist.

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And don't forget to allow some room for expenses like alterations and a hair and makeup trial (they can sneak up on you).

3. Work backwards from your wedding date to create a timeline.

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If you're buying from a bridal salon, give yourself eight months or so to find and order your dress.

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And you'll definitely want to do a final dress fitting between two weeks and a month from the big day in case there are any final alterations.

4. Know the wedding dress basics.

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For your dream dress, think about: neckline, silhouette, train, and fabric.

5. Choose a silhouette.

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You can always add to it with personalized details.

6. Decode neckline styles.

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And think about what kind of neckline makes you feel most confident; you don't want to feel self-conscious about a strapless dress while doing your Naomi Campbell walk down the aisle.

7. Get familiar with fabrics.

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Think about the season of your ceremony (do you want a lighter or a heavier fabric?) and your preferred texture to narrow down some options.

8. Get the right fit.

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One smart bit of info? You may need fewer alterations with a corset dress because you can adjust the fit yourself.

9. And know how to properly measure yourself.

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Getting the right measurements can make a huge difference if you'r shopping online or buying vintage.

10. Think about color.

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Stark white can look very striking on a darker skin tone, while ivory can add warmth to fairer skin.

11. Decide on a train.

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It can be 10 feet long or not at all.

12. Pick your sleeves.

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Perhaps a romantic juliet sleeve? Or maybe a modern illusion will do the trick?

13. Or maybe you want a specific type of bodice?

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An embellished bodice is sometimes preferred by bustier brides. Try a few on and see if you like the effect.

14. Figure out what you should wear underneath it.

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Because you'd hate to splurge on a beautiful bra that creeps out of the sides of your dress.

15. Pick out the perfect veil.

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Would you rather a simple blusher for a city hall wedding? Or do you want to go all out with a cathedral veil? Some brides forgo the veil altogether.

16. Think about veil fabric.

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Would you rather go shimmery or matte?

17. And consider a headpiece.

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Totally optional, but worth a thought.