BRIDAL ADVICE HUB
Bridal shopping is rarely just about a gown.
It’s about expression, instinct, and the quiet confidence that comes from choosing something that feels unmistakably yours.
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At Ivory Bride, we believe this journey should feel inspiring rather than overwhelming, a space where individuality is celebrated and vision is nurtured. Our gallery houses a curated edit of exclusive and highly sought-after designers from Europe and Australia, chosen for their authenticity, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.
This guide was created to answer the questions brides ask most often, and to offer clarity before you ever step into the studio.
How far in advance should I choose my wedding gown?
Most brides begin looking for their wedding gown around nine to twelve months before their wedding day. This allows time for thoughtful decision-making, fittings, and any bespoke elements, without pressure.
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That said, timelines are not rules. Some brides arrive earlier, Others begin later. What matters most is choosing a pace that supports clarity, not urgency.
How much do wedding gowns cost in Melbourne?
Wedding gown pricing in Melbourne varies depending on the designer, fabrication, and whether the gown is made-to-order or purchased from the studio. At Ivory Bride, each designer has a clear price guide, which can be viewed on their individual designer pages.
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Our collection reflects craftsmanship, authenticity, and timeless design, with gowns created by Australian and European designers. For brides working with shorter timeframes, many designers also offer a rush option, allowing gowns to be made within approximately six months, depending on the design. Pricing and timelines are always discussed openly during your appointment, so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.​​​​​
What happens during a bridal appointment?
A bridal appointment at Ivory Bride is a personalised styling experience, guided one-on-one by Kayla. It is calm, considered, and entirely centred around you.
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You’ll explore a curated selection of gowns, learn how different silhouettes and fabrics move on the body, and receive thoughtful guidance shaped by a designer’s eye. Some brides leave with certainty. Others leave with clarity unfolding. Both are part of the process.
Do I need to know my style before visiting a bridal studio?
No, and many brides don’t. Having a fully formed vision is not a prerequisite.
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Style often reveals itself through experience. A gown you never imagined may feel unexpectedly right, while something admired from afar may shift once worn. This is where discovery lives, in the space between expectation and feeling.
Can I purchase a gown directly from the studio?
Yes, a gown can be purchased directly from the studio if one of the sample gowns fits you and you choose to take it home.
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Otherwise, the gowns in our studio are available to be tried on as part of a personalised consultation. After exploring silhouettes and details, you’ll work closely with Kayla to customise your chosen design. Once finalised, your gown is made especially for you and placed into production with the designer. All Ivory Bride gowns are crafted in Australia and Europe, ensuring each piece reflects the highest level of care and craftsmanship.
How many bridal studios should I visit?
There is no ideal number, but visiting fewer studios often creates more clarity. Too many appointments can introduce comparison rather than confidence.
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Choosing studios whose aesthetic and philosophy genuinely resonate with you, and allowing space between visits, helps the process feel grounded and intentional.
What sizes does Ivory Bride carry?
Ivory Bride carries a range of sample sizes across our curated designers. Bridal sizing differs from everyday sizing, which is why fit is approached with sensitivity and understanding.
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Rather than focusing on numbers, we focus on proportion, movement, and how a gown can be tailored to you. Alterations are a natural part of the journey, and guidance is always offered with care.
Is Ivory Bride suited to modern or minimalist brides?
Ivory Bride is known for a refined aesthetic where modern elegance meets timeless tradition. Our curation celebrates clean lines, couture detailing, and individuality over trend.
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Minimalism, for us, is not about restraint alone, it is about intention. Selecting what feels essential, and letting go of what does not.
How do I know when I’ve found the right gown?
Finding your gown is often quieter than expected. Less spectacle, more recognition.
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The right gown tends to feel settled rather than overwhelming, a sense of ease, alignment, and confidence. When the noise softens and you begin to imagine the day itself, you are usually very close.
What should I bring to my bridal appointment?
Very little. Neutral undergarments and an open mind are more than enough.
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If you have reference imagery or ideas, you’re welcome to bring them, but they are not required. The most meaningful moments often arise when expectation gives way to experience.
Choosing a wedding gown is not a linear process.
Perspective shifts, certainty softens, and intuition grows stronger with time.​