Gown Shopping 101: The top ten things you need to know

3. Be open-minded: Not to contradict what we just wrote, but it's important to try on at least one dress that isn't like anything you ever thought you'd wear on your wedding day. It's amazing how many brides walk in thinking they want to wear something simple and straight and walk out looking like Cinderella or vice versa. In short, the dream dress you decide on may surprise you, and you won't have the chance to discover it if you swear off trying on styles you think aren't you.

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4. Know your figure: Don't know which style dress is most likely to flatter your form? Check out our Gowns for Every Body article and find out. Obviously, you want to find a gown that not only makes you happy but complements your body type and accentuates your best features. You can save time and energy if you have some idea of what style works best when you hit the stores -- and as you peruse those magazines. But don't be alarmed, offended or disappointed when your salesperson makes you try on a size 12 when you're really a size 6 (or vice versa) or orders you a dress that's a size or two larger than you usually wear. For starters, bridal gowns run small, so the dress that's ordered for you may be a size or two larger than you wear in ready-to-wear clothes. Also, the dresses in the store are not meant to fit you exactly -- they're just so you can get an idea of how you look. That said, the salesperson should do everything possible (pin, etc.) to create a look that's as close to the real thing as possible.