The Ultimate Timeline: When to Order, Alter, and Finalize Your Wedding Dress at CLE Bride

If you’re newly engaged, you’ve probably already started diving deep into wedding planning, and one of the most exciting tasks is finding the dress. At CLE Bride by Expressions, we’re here to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. The key to a relaxed journey from "yes to the dress" to walking down the aisle? A solid timeline.

We're pulling back the curtain on the perfect schedule for ordering, altering, and finalizing your wedding gown so you can enjoy every moment.

10-12 Months Before the Wedding
If you've been scrolling through gowns or have your eye on a specific designer, you might be wondering, "When exactly should I order?"

Our answer: 10 to 12 months before your wedding date.

Morilee Style 2707

Why such a long lead time? Here's the reality check: wedding dresses are not typically pulled off a shelf. They are meticulously made-to-order just for you. While regular shipping can sometimes bring a gown in as early as 4 months, the standard production and shipping time frame is closer to 6 to 8 months. Planning for that 10-12 month window ensures that even with the longest production time, you still have ample time for the essential next step: alterations. Avoid the stress - lock in that order early!

2-3 Months Before the Wedding
Once your gorgeous gown arrives at CLE Bride, the magic continues with alterations. This is where your dress transforms from a beautiful garment into a custom-fitted masterpiece that flatters you perfectly. We’ll make sure to help you find the perfect seamstress in the area to help bring your dream dress to life. 

Start your first alteration appointment about 8-12 weeks (2-3 months) before the wedding.

Stella York Style 8028

On average, though it depends on many factors, it takes three fittings to perfect your dress:    Fitting #1: The Consultation and Pinning Bring the exact undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day. These items directly impact the length and fit! Your seamstress will discuss the fit, bustle options, and any custom changes. The gown will be pinned to define the initial major adjustments (hem, sides, etc.).

Fitting #2: Checking the Major Adjustments
The major work is complete! Try the dress on to ensure the hemline and body fit are correct. The seamstress will usually finalize the bustle and any detail work, like straps or neckline adjustments.

Fitting #3: The Final Try-On
This is typically at least 1-2 weeks before the wedding.
Try on the dress one last time to ensure everything is perfect. You'll practice bustling the gown if you need to (bring your maid of honor or someone who will be helping you get into the dress if you can!). You'll take your finalized, steamed, and ready-to-wear gown home!

The journey to finding your dream dress is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning, and having a clear timeline makes all the difference. Ready to start the search? We can’t wait to help you find the dress that makes you feel like the most beautiful version of yourself! Book your bridal appointment with CLE Bride by Expressions today.