Brides often have a tough time making a selection of a wedding gown.
Their list of favorites already features five designs, but they simply won't stop looking for more.
If you're confused about the type of dress to don on your Big Day, you might want to think about vintage wedding dresses.
They make unique and attractive style statements.
Buying a vintage wedding dress is different than buying a wedding gown at the local boutique.
Read on for pitfalls to avoid when shopping for vintage clothing.
What Era? The era to emulate becomes the first factor of consideration.
1930's is a good point to start.
Nonetheless, there's no harm going back a decade.
Each decade witnessed different trends - slim fits, lowered waists, long sleeves, lace boleros, fuller skirts, raised necklines, ruffles and frills, lace detailing and much more.
The body shape is a guideline to choose a vintage pattern.
The style you choose should suit you; accentuating attributes and concealing flaws.
Sizing and Measurements Vintage clothing is sized differently.
In the early days, women wore corsets and girdles to get that ultra thin waist and slim fit.
If you've watched period films, you will be able to relate.
For this reason, you might need a size or two larger than what you are accustomed to.
The bust, waist and hip measurements should be supplemented with shoulder and arm width.
Stains and Tears Older the gown, greater are the signs of wear and tear.
When buying, examine the vintage wedding dresses for rips, stains and other imperfections.
Inquire about defects even when shopping online.
You need not put down the gown because it features stains and tears.
Some flaws are repairable.
An embellishment, lace motif or skillful sewing can act as a cover-up.
Many buy a stained Vintage wedding dress believing a stain remover will fix it.
Vintage fabrics are very delicate and hence should be washed or repaired by professionals only.
Missing Buttons What difference will two missing buttons make? More than you can imagine.
The buttons affixed to the dress are probably older than you are.
Finding the same today is next to impossible.
Consider if all the buttons can be replaced.
Plus Sizes Plus size vintage wedding dresses are hard to find because most of them were made to smaller sizes.
However, if you have your heart on a dress, don't despair.
You can employ a skillful seamstress to create a duplicate for you.
You can make it look similar with vintage lace motifs and embellishments.
Where to buy Vintage Bridal dresses? A good place to shop is a local vintage or antique store.
Antique stores are well stocked with beauties of the bygone era.
Antique store items are not only one-of-their-kinds but are also preserved in the best condition.
Thrift stores are another place to look for weddings gowns and accessories.
New arrivals are added every week.
Estate and garage sales are a great source for cheap wedding dresses.
You can also shop online too.