Wedding Dress Shopping: 8 Common Questions Answered

Wedding Dress Shopping: 8 Common Questions Answered

Michigan Wedding Journal

Wedding Dress Shopping:
8 Common Questions Answered

How long does a wedding dress take to arrive? How much should you budget? And is it okay to go shopping alone?

For Michigan Wedding Insider, I asked Oksana at LeBori Bridal Vault in South Lyon, Michigan, about everything from the first appointment to getting your dress ready for the wedding day. Here are her answers.

How long does it take to order a wedding dress?

In our interview, Oksana described approximately three months of production plus two weeks of shipping from her suppliers. Alterations need additional time, and customization or rush orders can change the schedule.

But if your wedding is only a month away, don’t get discouraged. Oksana says an off-the-rack dress may still be an option, with alterations to get it ready. Contact the salon with your timeline so they can check available dresses and whether the necessary changes can be completed in time.

How far in advance should I shop for my wedding dress?

When I asked whether a year was enough, Oksana said it was plenty of time for her salon. She encourages brides to start exploring early, even if they only know the wedding season.

Before ordering, confirm the expected arrival date and leave room for alterations. Your salon can help you work backward from your wedding day.

How much does a wedding dress cost, and when do I pay?

During our conversation, Oksana quoted regular prices starting around $1,800 and reaching approximately $3,500–$3,800. She also gave examples of off-the-rack gowns from earlier collections selling for $1,000 or $800.

Fabric, lace, beading, and customization affect the price. Ask about current options, and account for alterations and accessories when setting your total budget.

At LeBori, Oksana explained that you pay a 20% deposit when placing your order, with the remaining 80% due when your dress arrives.

How do I choose a wedding dress if I don’t know what I want?

Come with an open mind. Oksana loves helping brides explore different styles and encourages trying silhouettes you might otherwise dismiss.

You may arrive imagining a mermaid gown and fall in love with an A-line. Once you like a dress, sit down, walk, and raise your arms in it. Think about how you want to move and feel throughout your wedding day.

What should I wear to a bridal appointment?

Oksana recommends nude undergarments and asks brides to skip body oils and body makeup to protect the dresses. Face makeup is fine at her salon, where brides generally step into the gowns.

If you already have your wedding shoes, bring them. If you haven’t chosen them, LeBori has trial shoes available. You don’t need every accessory figured out before trying on dresses.

Is it okay to go wedding dress shopping alone?

Yes. Oksana regularly welcomes brides who come alone. Some want to explore styles before inviting family, while others simply prefer a quieter appointment.

You can shop solo first and bring loved ones later, once you have a clearer idea of what you like.

How should I store my wedding dress before the wedding?

Oksana recommends keeping the dress protected in its garment bag, safely stored in a closet and away from pets. LeBori provides roomy bags with space for fuller skirts.

Keep the dress covered during transport, too, so it stays protected until you’re ready to put it on.

How do you bustle a wedding dress?

A bustle secures the train up so you can move more freely during the reception. The method depends on the dress and the bustle added during alterations.

Oksana explains that the seamstress usually teaches this at a fitting. Bring the person who will help you on the wedding day so they can learn and practice with your actual dress.

The full conversation

The full interview

With Oksana at LeBori Bridal Vault

Meet your host

Hi, I’m Ievgeniia.

I’m a wedding filmmaker and the founder of Lights Camera Vows. Through Michigan Wedding Insider, I meet the people behind Michigan weddings and ask the questions that help you plan yours.

Looking for someone to capture your wedding day? I’d love for you to explore my work.