Bridal & Prom: Shopping Myths

​It's time for a gentle reminder that we can all succumb to those cultural stories we are told over and over again. Like fairytales, they are kind of charming and fun to believe, but boy can they hinder your ability to find the right wedding gown or prom dress. So let's dispel a few of these, and save you ladies some heartache.

Myth #1: When you find your Dress, You Will Cry

This is one brides want to be true, but it is rarely the case. In fact, in our 25 years of experience, what we have observed is that when brides find The One, they absolutely beam. It's as if they've been reunited with their best friend after years apart.

Now if you are a crier, or easily moved, then let it flow gals. But if that is not your personality, don't let the absence of tears convince you that you need to try on 100 more gowns. The cultural hype, and often our friends, have led us to believe that when a bride finds her gown, she will burst into tears of joy. Sometimes brides tear up because of the weight of the event. Seeing themselves in a gown feels real for the first time. Just take care not to be swayed either way. ​

Myth #2: YOu must stick to Your Original Vision

In a word: nope.

Maybe as a girl you imagined making an entrance in a ballgown, with long lace sleeves and a cathedral veil. But now, you're actually trying on gowns for your wedding, and suddenly, you decide to give the mermaid style a go and absolutely fall in love.

This is not a personality switch or a betrayal of your younger self.

You've simply shifted your point of view and now love the way your look. We can tell you that 95% of the time brides in our boutique end up giddily purchasing something different from their initial idea. Give yourself permission to try on different styles. You will likely be surprised.

Myth #3: Creating a Vision Board is a Must

We often think: "the answer is out there, and if I look hard enough, grab images of every type of gown, wedding, and style, I'll be able to make the best choice." More often than not, ladies, all you've done is overwhelm yourself. Vision boards, Pinterest and Tiktok algorithms have their place, but don't get locked in. You aren't bound to anyone else's template. Use those to inform you, but let your own voice, gut, and style lead the way. Give yourself permission to go off script. 

Myth #5: You cannot wear the same Color 

This myth is aimed at prom goers. If you love the color blue and wore navy last year, you do not, WE REPEAT DO NOT, have to choose a different color for prom this year. Maybe this time, a baby blue number caught your eye, or you realize that blue is a kind of signature of your style. Go for it!  If you look great in your dress, you'll feel great too.
And one more tip: don't worry about what your friends are wearing. If your bestie also chooses blue, or strapless, and so have you: no big deal. You are different women and you will look singular in your gowns. 

Myth #4: You have to Shop at Multiple Stores

You find THE gown at the first shop you visit, but you have to keep shopping around because finding IT in one stop seems impossible. NOT TRUE. Often brides find their gown at the first place they go. We've noticed that brides who visit multiple boutiques and try on upwards of 50 gowns don't end up with their dream gown; they end up confused. The same is true for prom dress shoppers. More is not always more. Don't think you have to keep exploring to make the right choice. Once you fall in love, stop looking. 

Myth #5: My Dress and Theme Must Match

Can your wear a goth gown at your garden wedding? Yes you can. Barn weddings don't require a rustic gown. We've seen ballgowns on beaches and bohemian gowns in churches. Your theme can show off your and your intended's personalities, but the gown needs to let you glow.
Again, the same is true for prom. if the theme is under the sea, you don't have to look like a sea nymph in a mermaid gown. You won't remember the theme nearly as much as the gown and the fun you had. We say, arch your backs ladies, choose what makes you happy, and the rest will speak for itself. 

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