Shopping early for your prom dress, wedding gown, or special occasion dress is crucial when it comes to securing your dream dress! Learn how to avoid missing out out.
Prom Dresses Sell Out Quickly
Prom Dresses begin to arrive in stores in December for the next year’s prom season. These in-stock dresses can sell out very quickly. When a certain style sells out, there is a possibility of having it made by the manufacturer, but that can take up to 14 weeks! If you’ve waited too close to your prom date to order, you would be out of luck and have to choose another dress. If you have your heart set on that one very special dress, it’s important to order early!
Other Delays to Consider
Most formal dresses are now made in China - this is not to be confused with counterfeit dresses from Chinese websites. Authentic designer dress manufacturing takes place in China and many dresses require hand beading and other fine detailing which takes time to perfect. Also, during the early months of the year, China celebrates their Chinese New Year and their factories are closed for 2-3 weeks. No prom dresses are produced during the celebration weeks, so special orders placed during this time have additional production and delivery time.
It’s also important that you take the time to measure carefully and choose the correct size for your dress. Getting the right fit the first time is important since other sizes may not be available later on.
Time for Finishing Touches
No matter how carefully you are in choosing your dress, alterations may be needed – having the hemline shortened, bra cups added, or a side seam taken in are common adjustments. Every body is different and a few custom tailoring touches are usually part of getting that perfect look! These alterations take time, so be sure to factor in that additional time when ordering. You can even check with your local seamstress to get some cost and time estimates.
Don’t forget to shop soon for shoes, jewelry, and accessories. And getting your dress early means you can ensure your dress matches perfectly with your date’s tuxedo!
Made to Order Wedding Dresses
Did you know that most wedding dresses are not purchased off the rack, but instead special ordered from the designer? After you find your perfect dress, you choose the size and color you need, and sometimes the length, trim color, or additional options, and the dress is made for you. Creating dresses like these, in fine fabrics, and often with hand beading or embroidery, takes time. Most are also made overseas and need ample time for shipping too. The average time needed to receive a special order dress is 12-16 weeks, while some can take a few weeks longer. You’ll want to be sure to budget this time into your wedding planning schedule, as well as time for alterations, shopping for accessories, and coordinating with the rest of the bridal party.
Shop Early for Your Prom Dress
Many dresses sell out during prom season so for best selection – shop early! From December to February, prom dresses begin arriving in prom and bridal stores. You'll have the largest selection of prom dresses if you shop during those early months of prom season. These dresses are made in China and many are handbeaded. They take about 8-10 weeks to special order because of the handwork.
During the early months of the year, China celebrates their Chinese New Year and their factories are closed for 2-3 weeks. No prom dresses are produced during the celebration weeks. If dresses are ordered right before or during their holiday, that adds about 2-3 weeks to the production time.
If you have an early prom in March or April, you should shop very early if you have a favorite prom designer such as Sherri Hill, Terani, Jovani or Alyce Designs you want to wear for your prom. In prom stores, try on different styles to discover your favorite look. Or if you are shopping and plan to order online at TJ Formal.com, take accurate measurements to get the best fit as formal dresses usually run small. Alterations are important for a perfect fit so don’t be discouraged if your dress doesn’t fit you perfectly. Purchasing your prom dress as early as possible will allow time for alterations and fittings. Buy your jewelry, shoes and other accessories at the same time to completely coordinate your prom look. After you are all done with shopping and alterations you can relax and enjoy dreaming about your big night! Have a great time!
Shop Early for Your Wedding Dress
Shopping early is just as important when buying your wedding dress, dresses for your bridesmaids, flower girl or mother-of-the-bride. Most of these types of dresses are specially made to order. You choose the size and color you need, and sometimes the length, trim color, or additional options, and the dress is made for you. Creating dresses like these, in fine fabrics, and often with hand beading or embroidery takes time. Most are also made overseas and need ample time for shipping. The average time needed to receive a special order dress is 12-16 weeks, while some can take a few weeks longer. Rush delivery options are sometimes available for an additional fee, but can help you get your dress several weeks earlier.
During the early months of the year, China celebrates their Chinese New Year and their factories are closed for 2-3 weeks. No dresses are produced during the celebration weeks. If dresses are ordered right before or during their holiday, that adds about 2-3 weeks to the production time, which is important to keep in mind.
Planning your wedding can be a stressful time, so be sure to plan ahead when it comes to dresses and order them well in advance. It's also important to allow time for fittings and alterations, as well as time to shop for matching shoes and accessories. Once your dress is on it's way you can relax and wait for it to arrive while you concentrate on the details of your special day!
