Do I need an appointment to visit?

Yes. Dream Dresses operates by appointment only across both boutiques. This ensures every bride receives a private, dedicated experience — no other appointments run alongside yours, so you have the boutique and your stylist entirely to yourself. Book online or call us to arrange your visit.

How long does a bridal appointment last?

Allow 90 minutes to two hours for your first appointment. This gives you enough time to discuss your vision, try on a meaningful number of styles, and leave feeling informed rather than rushed. If you'd like longer, just ask — we'll do our best to accommodate.

Who should I bring?

We recommend one to three guests — people whose opinions you genuinely trust. Larger groups create competing voices that often make the decision harder rather than easier. You're also very welcome to come alone; many brides find solo appointments more focused and less emotionally complicated.

What should I wear?

Nude or seamless underwear and a strapless bra if you have one. Avoid heavy foundation or fake tan on appointment day, as it can transfer onto light-coloured fabrics. Don't worry about shoes — we have samples in the boutique to give you the right heel height.

Is there a charge for appointments?

We charge a small booking fee to secure your appointment time. This is fully refundable against your purchase — so if you find your dress, the fee comes off the price. It simply helps us manage our diary and ensures every appointment is attended.

What if I don't find my dress at the first appointment?

Very common. There's absolutely no pressure to make a decision on the day. Many brides visit two or three times before ordering. When you're ready, we'll be here.

Can I book a second appointment after I've visited?

Yes, of course. Second appointments are common and very welcome. Often a bride needs to try one or two dresses again, or bring a different person to share the experience.

How much do wedding dresses cost at Dream Dresses?

Our collection spans multiple price points: sample and off-the-peg gowns from £199, made-to-order gowns from £399, and designer gowns from £649. We'll always work within your stated budget — please tell your stylist your honest ceiling and we'll show you everything available within it.

What additional costs should I plan for?

Your dress price is not your total cost. Budget also for: alterations (typically £150–£400), a veil or headpiece (£40–£200+), accessories (£20–£150+), and shoes. A good rule of thumb is to keep 20–30% of your total dress budget available for these extras.

Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Interest-free payment plans are available for made-to-order gowns. Ask your stylist for details at your appointment.

What deposit is required when I order?

A percentage deposit is required when you place your order, with the balance due when your dress arrives. Full payment terms are confirmed at your appointment. Deposits are non-refundable once placed, as they are used to place your order with the designer.

What sizes do you stock?

Our collection runs from UK 4 to UK 30. We carry sample gowns in a range of sizes, including larger sizes, so that brides of all body shapes can try on dresses that actually fit.

Why does bridal sizing run larger than my high street size?

Bridal sizing runs one to two sizes larger in number than UK high street sizing — this is standard across the industry. It's purely a historical convention and has no bearing on how the dress looks or fits. Your stylist will take your measurements and advise on the correct size to order.

Can I order a made-to-order dress in my exact measurements?

Yes. Made-to-order dresses are produced using a standard size that is closest to your measurements, with finishing alterations required after delivery. For very specific requirements, some designers offer custom sizing — your stylist will advise.

What if my body changes between ordering and my wedding?

Most designer gowns include seam allowances that allow for taking in by one to two sizes. We recommend ordering to your measurements at the time of appointment and booking alteration fittings six to eight weeks before your wedding, when your size is likely to be stable.

Which designers do you stock?

We carry our own Dream Dresses Bridal Collection alongside other carefully selected designers. Ask your stylist for details at your appointment — we update our range regularly.

How long does a made-to-order dress take to arrive?

Typically four to seven months from the date of order, depending on the designer. Rush orders may be available at additional cost for some designers. Your stylist will confirm the expected lead time for your chosen dress at the time of ordering.

When should I start shopping?

Ideally nine to twelve months before your wedding date. This allows for the full lead time plus alteration fittings. If your wedding is within six months, off-the-peg and sample options may be more suitable — we'll advise at your appointment.

Can I make changes to a dress once I've ordered?

Once an order is placed with a designer, changes are generally not possible. This is why we take time to be certain you're happy with every element before ordering. Some in-store adjustments can be made through the alteration process after the dress arrives.

Do you offer alterations in-store?

We work with a network of experienced bridal seamstresses local to Reading who we can recommend. Most brides use an external seamstress for alterations, which gives you flexibility on cost and timing.

When should I start alteration fittings?

Book your first fitting approximately eight weeks before your wedding. Most brides need two to three fittings, with the final fitting around two weeks before the day.

How should I store my dress at home?

Hang it in a breathable fabric garment bag (not plastic), away from direct sunlight and heat. Plastic bags trap moisture and can cause discolouration over time.

Should I have my dress professionally cleaned after the wedding?

Yes — even if the dress looks clean. Invisible stains from perspiration, champagne, and makeup will discolour the fabric over time if untreated. Professional bridal cleaning is best done within a few months of your wedding.