If the idea of shopping for just any wedding dress doesn’t excite you, then you may want to consider something entirely new and different: online wedding dress design!
Designing your own wedding dress can be a really fun idea. And if you’re a seamstress, then you could design and create your own wedding dress yourself from scratch.
Thanks to computers and the Internet, there are lots of ways to get ideas for making your own wedding dress.
Recently, free online wedding dress design websites and apps have started popping up — and most of them are really cool!
Here are my favorites…
#1 – Wedding Dress Creator
I really like this one because it has several different hairstyles, skin tones, jewelry, and dress types. You can even choose different backgrounds and pick an accent color. The only thing this online wedding dress design site lacks is the ability to change the body type of the model. (Not all of us are model thin.)
#2 – Zeekit
Instead of trying on a ton of dresses to get an idea of what looks good on you, Zeekit allows you to measure and try on wedding dresses virtually. First, you upload an image to the Zeekit app (or select a model with a similar body structure and skin tone as you). Then, within seconds, your selected dress appears. This makes it easy for you to visualize yourself in different dresses. NOTE: This is the same system that Amazon and Walmart use for their virtual fitting rooms!
#3 – Wedding Dress Photo Montage
Use this app to see what you look like in different wedding dresses. First, upload a photo of yourself, then use the bridal face changer and editor to change the styles.
#4 – Doll Divine Wedding Dress Creator
This one is a little cartoonish, but it’s helpful for getting a general idea of what you like and don’t like.
#5 – David’s Bridal Bridal Style Guide
Finally, an online wedding dress design site that allows you to change the body type! This is a great option, since we’re not all model thin and perfectly shaped. See what’s best for you if you have an hourglass shape, or if you’re a triangle, inverted triangle, or rectangle. Get started by taking the David’s Bridal “dress quiz” first.
#6 – Olivia Luca’s Design Studio
Design your own dress, in your own style, for your own body, without sewing a stitch!
Before You Design Your Wedding Dress Online…
Online wedding dress design requires a lot of your own input and accuracy of measurement.
These are the 3 most important factors:
- Know your measurements. A well-fitting dress is essential for a flattering look on your wedding day. Be sure to take your measurements accurately before you begin designing your dress.
- Be realistic about your expectations. You may not be able to get exactly what you envision, but you should be able to get a dress that is close to your vision.
- Be patient. Designing your wedding dress online can be a time-consuming process. Be patient and don’t give up on your vision.
How To Take Accurate Measurements For Your Wedding Dress
- Wear appropriate clothing. Stand in your undergarments or light clothing that won’t affect the measurements.
- Use a soft measuring tape. Use a fabric tape measure that lays flat against your body and won’t dig in.
- Find a helper. Having someone assist you ensures they can reach difficult areas and hold the tape measure correctly.
Measurement Guide:
- Bust: Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust, holding it level and snug (not tight). Keep a thumb on the inside of the measuring tape — and pull the tape so it’s snug but not tight. NOTE: This measurement is not your bra size.
- Waist: Locate your natural waist, the narrowest part of your stomach — about 2 inches above your belly button. Stand with your stomach at its natural position, then wrap the measuring tape measure around your waist, keeping the tape level and snug. Be sure to keep a thumb on the inside of the tape while doing this measurement.
- Hips: Find the fullest part of your hips and buttocks. Wrap the measuring tape around this area. Make sure the measuring tape measure stays parallel to the floor and snug to your body.
- Length: Measure from your collarbone (the hollow point at your neck) to the hemline (where you want the dress to end). Be sure to wear shoes of the exact heel height that you will be wearing with the dress.
Additional Tips:
- Take several measurements. Repeat each measurement at least twice to ensure accuracy.
- Don’t hold your breath. Breathe normally while all of the measurements are being taken.
- Be aware of limitations. Self-measurement is prone to slight errors, so take your time. You don’t want a dress that will require significant alterations. That said, some minor alterations may still be necessary… so be prepared.
I enjoy helping women find clever ways to plan their weddings on a budget. My goal is to help you stay creative and save money at the same time! When I'm not writing, I enjoy spending time with my husband, reading, and creating 3D artwork & Native American beadwork.
