Here are some basic guidelines to get the ball rolling. Don't worry. Soon enough you'll be in that perfectly fit dress that you've always dreamed of!

One thing to definately consider is the different styles available. Start by clipping pictures from bridal magazines and online shops. Look at all the different styles. When you are out to try some dresses on, try on a variety of dresses, even if it doesn't look right at first. You never know, a completely different style than you thought of may surprise you and might end up being perfect for you.

Form an image in your mind of what you'd like your dress to look like. Consider the neckline, the length and the amount of beading. This can help you narrow down the search once you arrive to the store.

You don't HAVE to invite your mother, but definately (if your shopping at a bridal store) bring a friend along whose opinion you trust.

Bring the same size heel you expect to wear at the wedding.

You don't need to go all out. One place to look, that not every looks, is "on-the-rack" stores, outlet stores or trunk shows. You'd be amazed at the beautiful finds other brides have come across while saving a ton of money.

Take home a fabric swatch to match with your shoes, veil and accessories. Carry it with you in a baggy in your purse so you've always got it on hand. You never know when it might come in handy.

A custom made dress is very helpful for a number of reasons: the bride knows exactly what she wants, down to every detail and would like to design it herself or have someone else design it, she wants more control over the final outcome of the dress, she wants more flexibility in the construction of it, she appreciates the ability to customize any portion of it, etc. These are all very good reasons. If this is a path that you'd like to go down, be sure to allow yourself at least six months for the process. Begin the process as soon as possible as to avoid any last minute snags.

Consider these guidelines when looking for a dress, and think about your body type:

Triangle - Your body type may be considered a triangle if your hips are wider than bust and shoulders. If this is the case, your goal may be to minimize the lower body and create the illusion of additional upper body width.

Tips:
- You can create height if you have an elongated waistline.
- To create the appearance of wider shoulders, wearing full sleeves helps.
- Try wearing a full skirt if you'd like to hide heavy hips and legs.
- You can draw the eye upward by selecting a decorative bodice or details at the neckline.
- Try to avoid bulky or straight skirts.

Reverse Triangle - Your body type may be considered reverse triangle if your upper body is wider than the lower body. If this is the case, a fitting dress may be to emphasize lower body width.

Tips:
- If you want to minimize upper body width, a simple bodice will do the trick, as will unadorned sleeves.
- High necklines and narrow skirts don't work so well for reverse triangle ladies.
- You can draw the eye downward by selecting a detailed skirt.
- A great way to create additional height is to use a dropwaist.

Hourglass - An hourglass figure would be defined as having a larger bust and hips, and a small waist. You might be looking for just the right amount of balance.

Tips:
- An hourglass body should avoid high waistlines and necklines.
- Your best bet is to emphasize a small waist with a fitted waistline.
- A perfect tip for an hourglass figure is to have soft gathered skirts to help disguise hips and draw attention to the waistline; A-line dresses also work well.
- Try and use details or embellishments wisely: bodice detail such as beading or lace will bring the eye upward and emphasize the upper body.
- Consider an open neckline to flatter the shoulder line and bring the eye upwards.

Rectangle - The rectangle body is considered long and narrow without a strongly defined waistline. You may want to Emphasize width and avoid long vertical lines.

Tips:
- Consider detailed sleeves to draw the eye outward.
- An open neckline or off the shoulder look works beautifully to broaden the shoulder line.
- Try to avoid high or drop waists. Try out a fitted waist instead.