Even if you are an avid online shopper, your wedding dress is one item of clothing you're going to want to buy in person. That's where bridal salons come in. A bridal salon is a store that specializes in wedding dresses (and sometimes other formal gowns) and is usually staffed by experts in the wedding fashion industry. You can find out which dress shops are closest to you here, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you start shopping. First, do your research. It is good to have an idea of what styles of wedding dresses are on the market, as well as which trends are especially hot right now. You might even get an idea for what style of dress you are looking for, especially if your wedding has a specific theme (for example, a lace sheath for a vintage wedding or a knee-length A-line dress for a retro wedding). That being said, most bridal salon owners will recommend that you keep an open mind when you first start shopping. Dresses that look great in photos might not be so flattering on your figure, and the style you never thought you would like could turn you into a knockout. You should also keep in mind your timeline. If you are planning to have a short engagement, make sure the bridal salon will have time to order the dress in your size if they don't have it already. It can take up to six months to order a dress and have it properly fitted, so you want to make sure you allow enough time. Happy dress hunting!