Photo: Michelle VanTine Photography
There is so much beauty in a wedding dress, but it, like everything else, can get a little dirty on the big day. Anything can go wrong with clothes — zippers stick, trains get stepped on, veils blow away, dresses get spotted and shrink mysteriously. Any of these fashion emergencies can seem like the end of the world, but fear not! You can easily avoid them or, at the very least, do some quick damage control if need be. We consulted some etiquette expert answers to wedding dress emergencies so you can shine on without a care in the world.
What should I do about a rip or tear in my dress?
Bring safety pins, needle, thread, tape, and glue in your wedding day emergency kit to the ceremony site for last-minute repairs. Hold the bridal bouquet in a position that hides a spot or tear if there's still a little damage showing, if possible.
I'm worried that a Tide to Go pen or something like that will seriously damage my wedding dress. How can I find out other ways to do emergency stain removal?
Ask your bridal salon in advance fro emergency cleaning tips. The consultant there should be able to give you suggestions for your particular fabric when you buy the gown. Also, if you have a wedding planner, this is their jam! Planners are used to spills and stains and should be well-versed in what to use to remove them, no matter the fabric.
Is there such a thing as "practicing" wearing a wedding dress? I'm not used to such a big skirt or train and I can totally see myself tripping over it or ripping it.
Absolutely! Try on your wedding clothes one week before the date and practice standing, rising, walking, and sitting in them. Most women aren't used to walking in a long dress or negotiating a train and veil, after all. Also, show your honor attendant how to arrange your train so that it doesn't get wrinkled as you stand at the altar, and so that your father or groom won't trip over it and rip it. Be sure she knows how to bustle your train, too, so you can maneuver at the reception.