We talk a lot about the one—the perfect partner, the love of our life. But there’s another “one” we’re expected to find: the wedding dress. For something so romantic, the whole process can feel… unexpectedly stressful. What if I never had that moment? The one where you look in the mirror and just know?
So I did something different. I turned to online shopping, and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I made. Here’s my step-by-step guide to making the search for ‘the one’ online a little more magical—or at the very least, way less stressful.
Step 1: Why Online?
Buying a wedding dress online might sound a bit wild—but trust me, it gives you freedom you didn’t know you needed.
- No pressure. More time. No appointments, no one rushing you to decide. Just you, your laptop, and all the time in the world.
- Try-on experience? Your rules. No overly bright changing rooms. No strangers’ opinions. You choose who you want to try your dresses with—and how.
Step 2: Get Inspired & Refine your style
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- Browse Pinterest, bridal websites, even reels
- Bookmark or save dresses that spark something
- Look for patterns in what you like and refine it
💡 If, like me, you’re looking for a dress that doesn’t scream bridal, it could be your opportunity to get that white designer dress!
In the next blog post, I’ll finally share the five websites that made the cut—after months of browsing—for elegant, silk dresses that’ll leave the groom completely speechless.
Step 3: Make a Plan
- Choose 3–5 Dresses: Order a few styles you love. Try to time their arrival so they come around the same time as your dress try-on.
- Choose Shoes and Accessories: You don’t need the shoes right away, but I recommend ordering at least 2–3 heel heights to try with your dresses. It helps with the overall silhouette and hemline decision.
- Make a Return Plan: Before you order, take a quick scroll through the reviews—fit notes, fabric quality, and real customer photos can save you from disappointment later. Then, make it easy for yourself and write down:
- When each dress is arriving
- When you have to return it
- How to return it
I know it sounds so basic, but if you order from multiple websites, it gets confusing real quick.
Step 4: Get Your Measurements Right
You want your dress to fit you like a glove, so save yourself the hassle and order the right size!
- Grab a soft measuring tape (or buy one online)
- Measure your bust, waist, and hips—not too tight
- Compare with the brand’s sizing chart
- If you’re between sizes, check reviews, or size up and plan for tailoring
Step 5: Make the Try-On Moment Magical
Here comes the fun part. Once your dresses arrive, don’t rush. Choose a day, block your calendar, and turn your living room into a mini bridal studio.
Invite a few friends over, do your hair and makeup, set the mood, maybe even decorate a little. Order or make something tasty, pop some champagne, and start the try-on party.
Some if my favorite tips to make it unforgettable:
🎶 Create a try-on playlist—think early 2000s bangers for a dancey vibe, or soft indie love songs for a dreamy mood
📸 Set up your phone on a tripod (or a stack of books)—take photos from every angle, even the silly ones
👗 Test accessories—veils, capes, earrings, heels, even sunglasses (why not?)
🕯️ Add candles or fairy lights to make the room feel a bit magical
💬 Keep a notebook or shared Notes app open—rate each dress with your friends
Final Thoughts
Finding the one—whether it’s a person or a dress—isn’t easy. I definitely felt overwhelmed and unsure at times. But honestly, once I found it, it was the best feeling.
Going the online route might not be for everyone, but for me, it was just the right choice. I could take my time and find something that really felt like me—which is so damn important.
If you’re in the middle of this process, I hope this helped even just a little—or at least gave you some ideas. I’d love to hear from you in the comments: how is it going?
Coming soon: the sites I kept going back to (after way too much browsing), and the dress I ended up picking. Can’t wait to show you. 🤍
