Should you have a totally different look in mind, the designer can sew from scratch. An appointment is usually required, so call ahead. Also, order the dress at least four to eight months in advance. It can take a couple of months just for the fabric to arrive, let alone the time required to sew the dress. Be prepared to attend up to three fittings and, if you want the dress to fit perfectly, bring the undergarments you intend to wear with you.
Many women find gowns at bridal salons that have manufacturers' samples to try on.
Once you choose a dress, it will be ordered from the manufacturer and then altered to fit your requirements. Appointments are also often necessary at these salons, especially on Saturdays. You'll need to order about six months in advance as it takes time for the dresses to be made, delivered and altered. Other shops sell dresses that you buy off the rack and have altered after you have purchased them. Women have different reasons for choosing a second-hand wedding gown.