For more than 70 years, thousands of brides have traveled to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to find their wedding day looks. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the magic of Kleinfeld. Not only does Kleinfeld have 30,000 square feet filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, it also has the greatest professional staff of over 200 employees who are dedicated to finding and perfecting your bridal look.
We get asked on our Instagram and Facebook all the time for tips and advice on shopping for a wedding dress, and who better ask than the queen of wedding dresses? We got the scoop from Kleinfeld exclusive designer, Pnina Tornai, on what her top tips were for shopping for one of the most special outfits you’ll ever wear. Read on for her expert advice, below.
Carefully select your shopping squad.
“Bring those who you know love you to the extent where they will only tell you the truth and respect your dress wishes,” recommends Pnina. “Do NOT bring jealous friends,” she says. Pro tip from the designer: “If you wish to maintain a good relationship with your mother-in-law, make sure to include her in your dress shopping,” she suggests.
Shop during a trunk show.
A trunk show is where a designer brings their entire collection of new dresses (or accessories) to a bridal salon. During a trunk show, the designer and/or brand representative is in‑store, available to help brides say “yes!” to their dream wedding dress, discuss styles and customizations, and offer a special trunk show promotion. “If possible, make sure your favorite designer is there for the trunk show, so that you can meet the creator of your dress,” suggests Pnina. Browse the trunk show calendar and make an appointment.
Come prepared.
When trying on dresses, it helps brides better visualize themselves when they are hair and makeup ready. And what better occasion to have your hair and makeup trial than before dress shopping? “This way, you can get the full effect and imagine yourself in a more‑or‑less completed look,” recommends Pnina. Get more makeup trial tips here. Speaking of coming prepared, “If you already have wedding shoes, remember to bring those with you as well,” she suggests. This, along with hair and makeup, will help you envision yourself better on your wedding day when trying on styles.
Don’t forget to eat.
“Make sure you have breakfast or lunch before you go shopping,” says Pnina. “You don’t want to try on dresses on an empty stomach—believe it or not, it’s a lot of work!” We always recommend you eat a light yet filling meal prior to your bridal appointment and alterations appointments as well. The last thing you want is to feel the dreaded ‘hangry’ feeling!
Listen to your heart.
One of the most frequently asked questions from our brides is, “how will I know my dress is the one?” To that we say, go with the style that makes you feel like the most beautiful and confident version of YOU. “Try not to get fixated on one particular look. Let your heart lead you, and you will feel it when it’s the right gown for you,” says Pnina. Trust your dedicated bridal consultant to lead you to your dream wedding dress, and follow your gut with what you want—the perfect recipe to find your dream wedding dress.
Make sure to enjoy the process.
Wedding dress shopping is one of the most exciting parts of the entire wedding planning process. We always tell our brides to soak up every second. “After all, you are getting married and this will be a cherished memory in your life,” says Pnina. Remind yourself to be present and enjoy every moment!