How to Prepare for Your Wedding Dress Fitting: Essential Tips Every Bride Should Know

Your dress fitting should feel exciting, calm, and fun — not overwhelming. Whether you're stepping into a boutique for the first time, browsing pre-loved gowns, or trying on samples to keep things sustainable, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s how to walk into your appointment feeling confident, organised, and ready to find the dress that feels like you.

1. Choose Clothing That’s Easy to Change In and Out Of

The fitting room can quickly become a workout if you’re wearing something fiddly. Go for simple, comfortable clothing that you can slip off effortlessly. Think soft fabrics, minimal layers, and nothing that needs to be unbuttoned in ten places. The quicker you can change, the more time you’ll spend actually enjoying the dresses.

2. Bring a Pair of Heels Similar to What You’ll Wear on the Day

You don’t need your wedding shoes yet, but having a heel on hand helps you see how a dress really sits. Pick a pair that’s easy to step in and out of, and ideally close in height to what you imagine wearing. Even a simple pair of slip-on heels will help you understand the length, structure, and flow of each gown.

3. Bring Jolene Nipple Covers for Smooth, Stress-Free Changing

Many brides forget this one — until they’re standing in a fitting room wishing they’d packed something to make changing feel more comfortable. Jolene nipple covers are perfect for fittings because they’re lightweight, seamless and give you discreet coverage under every style of dress.

They sit flat under silk, satin, lace, and plunge necklines, so you can focus on the fit rather than worrying about visibility. And if you’re planning to go braless on your wedding day, wearing Jolene during your fitting gives you a realistic sense of how the dress will feel.

4. Keep Makeup Light or Skip It Altogether

Wedding dresses, especially sample or pre-loved gowns, can be delicate — and makeup transfers easily. Opting for minimal makeup helps keep dresses pristine and gives you one less thing to stress about. A touch of mascara and a natural lip is more than enough for a fitting.

5. Stay Flexible and Try On Styles You Wouldn’t Expect

Almost every bride has a moment where a dress she didn’t plan on trying becomes the one she can’t stop thinking about. Be open to shapes, fabrics, and details you might not typically choose. Sometimes the magic happens in the least expected places.

6. Bring One or Two Calm, Supportive People

Your fitting should feel relaxed, not like a group debate. Bringing one or two trusted people keeps the focus on how you feel in each dress. Too many opinions can pull you in different directions — choose people who genuinely understand your style and want you to feel your best.

7. Eat Something Before You Go and Bring Water

Dress fittings can take time, and you’ll be standing, stepping, and moving a lot. A quick snack beforehand keeps your energy steady, and staying hydrated makes everything feel easier.