It's all about the right fit.

You might be overwhelmed by choices — and unsure of what looks best on your body type. Scour bridal magazines and Web sites for different types of dresses.

Keep a file of styles that appeal to you, and take those images to a bridal salon or dress shop. Use magazine and online sources to find bridal salons in your area, and ask friends and family for referrals. Then, make appointments with a few of them. Try on various styles, using the images you pulled as a guide. Bring shoes with about the same heel height as you're likely to wear on your wedding day.

Good manners, charm count.

The gown you select should reflect the formality of your reception as well as the ceremony. If you are having an evening reception with more than 200 guests, you can opt for a floor-length dress with a long cathedral train, according to Contemporary Bride magazine. Daytime or semiformal brides should choose simpler dresses with chapel- or sweep-length trains that are shorter.

Your dress should make you feel like a million bucks.

Most people cannot afford a custom-made couture dress but that does not mean you have to forgo designer gowns. Keep an eye out for trunk shows or sample sales held at bridal salons in your area.

An older-style gown or one that's been previously tried on at a show or sale can be just the gem you're looking for — at a reduced price. A designer bridesmaid gown in ivory or white can make a simple yet stunning wedding dress.

Simple is the key word. Avoiding beading or sequins, which require lots of detail from seamstresses, can keep the price of your dress down. You can also settle for a silk blend instead of pure silk. Making concessions and being flexible will help you keep your budget in check. And you can certainly consider designer knockoffs or bridal outlets for off-the-rack gowns at greatly discounted prices.

Never settle for less than the best.

No matter what your budget, you should pay attention to the quality of the gown. Make sure the seams are straight, and that any beads, sequins or details are fastened tightly. There should be no loose threads. And the hems — particularly after you've been fitted — should stay in place even after a firm tug.

You have to walk down an aisle, dance and spend an entire day in this dress. It should be durable and fit you well. Once you pick a dress, it has to be ordered (unless it's off the rack or a sample).

When it arrives, you will go through three to four fittings. Schedule your last dress fitting one week before your wedding day.

Often, because of nerves, brides will lose or gain a little bit of weight. It's important to test the fit as close to your wedding date as possible. Plus, this way the shop or tailor will hold your dress until almost the last minute — and you won't have to worry about getting anything on it or having your groom see it before your wedding day.

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