May 5, 2026

Bridesmaid Dress Shopping Timeline

Your ultimate bridesmaid dress shopping timeline. From swatches, to ordering, alterations, and more- read along and grab your calendars. Share with your bridal party, bridesmaids, friends, maid of honor, and more. 

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9–12+ Months Before the Wedding

• Bride selects color palette, fabric, and styles
• Follow Jenny Yoo on social media for inspiration, options, and real weddings.
• Schedule your Bridesmaid Appointments

6–9 Months Before

• Bridesmaids try on dresses and place orders based on measurements.
• Recommended not to order too early to avoid any drastic size changes.

4–6 Months Before

• Made-to-order dresses are still available with rush options if needed.
• Opt for ordering ready-to-ship gowns online, offered in the most-loved colors and styles.

2–3 Months Before

• Dress arrives, try on immediately!
• Schedule alterations appointments.
• Last minute bridesmaids - shop online!

2–6 Weeks Before

• Alterations Appointments. Almost all bridesmaid gowns will need alterations to provide the best length and fit, tailored to your body. Your bride and her photographer will thank you for not dragging your hem or adjusting straps!

1 Week Before

• Steam your dress! Some fabrics such as velvet or embroidery can get away without steaming; however, strongly suggested if you’re wearing satin, chiffon, tulle, taffeta, faille, or crepe. Gowns will photograph better, look cleaner, and be more cohesive.