How do I sit in my wedding dress?

I was told by my bridal shop

"You don't sit in a wedding dress - you perch!"

It does make sense! Sitting on the edge of the chair helps a lot! :-)

Also, if corseted, I'd check if your corset is high enough/needs to be pulled up an inch or two. Won't affect the cleavage much, but will make sure all is safely gathered in and help you avoid the boob/chin situation!

I am big boobed though, so the above applies to me - but I'm not certain if it would apply to more petite ladies?

I think the big thing with a structured dress, lace up or zip, is to sit upright. You can't slouch. So a very straight back will also help and shoulders back too. Must admit you do see a lot of brides who, when sat down, have their assets forming another set of chins, and it's so sad and uncomfortable.

It might sound an odd suggestion, but why not by a boned corset of similar length/lacing to the boning on your dress (I'm trying to avoid a Finbarr Saunders moment here, but my suggestion is genuine).

Wear it around the house with a long skirt. If your corset is laced right you should be able to learn how you can move and how it restricts you over a longer period of time than just your fittings. Just from someone who wears a corset from time to time. For others, YMMV.

The recommendation re 'perching' is 100% - not a slouchable garment!

I found that when I tried my dress on for the first time I looked so stupid lol. Double chins and boobies for a neck!! I find it extremely difficult to sit straight because a health problem I have in my joints which mainly effects the spine. I have lost a fair bit of weight since I tried my dress on last but don't think that will help much once it's altered. So keeping an eye on this post for all sorts of tips and tricks for this one :-)

Great post that I will be following for tips ?

This is why I didn't want a boned gown as I am big on top and didn't want my boobs round my chin. I haven't actually sat down in mine yet but hopefully shouldn't be too bad. A friend of mine suggested sitting on the edge of the chair as it lowers your hip line a little. X

Would also suggest practicing standing up from seated in your dress if it's strapless - my mum is a minister and has witnessed a mishap with strapless dresses when the bride goes to stand up from signing the register. Thankfully she is fairly quick thinking and her cassock has provided a modesty curtain extremely quickly but she now always tells hers brides with strapless dresses to practice just to be on the safe side!