.png)
In this week’s episode of 52 ’Til I Do, we officially kick off Phase 3: The Finer Details, the phase where wedding planning shifts from big-picture decisions to the details your vendor team needs to execute the day to your vision. One of the first topics we revisit in Phase 3? Wedding attire.
Attire is one of those planning categories that evolves over time. To help couples navigate custom wedding suits, gowns, and sustainable options, we’re joined by Katie DeGrazia of Life Styled with Katie, whose made-to-order approach prioritizes fit, individuality, and intentional design.
If you listened to 52 ’Til I Do Episode 10, you know custom wedding attire should be started 10–12 months before the wedding. Phase 3 is the perfect time to check in on where things stand and focus on the remaining details.
Wedding attire is one of the most memorable elements of the day, and one of the most photographed. But choosing what you’ll wear isn’t just about aesthetics. Fit, tailoring, accessories, footwear, and comfort all require time and planning.
With roughly three months until the wedding, Phase 3 allows couples to:
This timing helps avoid last-minute decisions while keeping everything aligned with your vision.
There are two key differences between custom wedding attire and off-the-rack clothing: fit and customization.
Off-the-rack attire is designed to fit a wide range of bodies, which often means alterations are expected. Custom wedding suits and gowns are created using your measurements from the start, resulting in a more comfortable, intentional fit.
Custom attire allows you to choose details that matter most to you; fabric, texture, structure, buttons, pockets, and overall silhouette. Instead of adjusting to what’s available, you’re designing something that reflects your personal style and the tone of your wedding day.
Traditional wedding attire will always be timeless, but custom wedding fashion opens the door to flexibility and creativity. Whether you’re incorporating color, texture, or subtle design elements, custom attire allows you to personalize your look while still feeling cohesive with your wedding style.
From bold statement pieces to refined twists on classic designs, custom wedding attire gives couples more control over how they show up on their day.
Sustainability is becoming a priority for many couples, and wedding attire is a meaningful place to make thoughtful choices.
Life Styled with Katie uses a made-to-order model, meaning garments are only created once they’re purchased. This approach reduces waste and avoids overproduction, a common issue in both fast fashion and luxury markets where unsold clothing often ends up discarded.
Choosing small designers who prioritize ethical production allows couples to align their wedding attire with their values while still receiving a high-quality, custom look.
Rewearing or repurposing wedding attire is one of the easiest ways to approach sustainability. Wedding dresses, suits, tuxedos, and accessories are often highly versatile.
Jackets, trousers, shoes, jewelry, and watches can all transition into everyday or special-occasion wardrobes, extending the life of your investment. Gowns can be transformed into robes, shorter party dresses, or even gift items for your future children (if that's applicable to you).
The custom attire process typically begins with a consultation focused on your wedding day as a whole, not just measurements. Designers consider your venue, timeline, style, and how you’ll move throughout the day.
From there, you’ll review fabric swatches, color options, and materials before finalizing the design. Once the garment is complete, fittings and final adjustments ensure everything feels intentional and comfortable.
Menswear
Womenswear
Fabric choice plays the biggest role in pricing. Premium or specialty fabrics will increase cost, while simpler materials help keep budgets balanced. Couples prioritizing custom attire can often offset costs by simplifying accessories or styling choices elsewhere.
What advice do you have for someone ordering a custom suit for the first time?
“Give custom a try, there’s nothing like wearing something made just for you.”
One style rule everyone should remember?
“Simplicity over trends. Classic pieces last longer and offer more versatility.”
Custom wedding attire isn’t neccesarily about being flashy, it’s about fit, intention, and feeling confident in what you’re wearing. Phase 3 is the ideal time to revisit your attire and ensure it aligns with your style, values, and overall wedding plan.
For more tips and tricks, tune into the full episode of 52 ‘Til I Do on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Have more wedding attire related questions? Send us a message at hello@marryment.com or get in touch on our social media—we love helping couples navigate this part of wedding planning! Be sure to get in touch with Katie too!
Photo Credit to JNA Visuals
Marryment proudly serves couples all across Chicago and the surrounding Chicago Suburbs including popular areas such as Schaumburg, Elmhurst, Naperville, Evanston, Joliet, Oak Park, Skokie, Barrington, Downers Grove and Northbrook, to name a few. We also love destination weddings. We'd love to be a part of your wedding day! Schedule your free planning call with us today.
Schedule your free planning call with us.
Planning tips, wedding inspiration, and exclusive offers—straight to your inbox! Join our community and get the latest updates to make your wedding journey even more joyful.
