Quick answer: The golden rule is to work backwards from your event date and build in a buffer. As a guide: in-stock pieces ship in ~10–12 days, made-to-order takes ~4–6 weeks, and heavy bridal needs 3–4 months. So for a heavy bridal look, order 3–4 months ahead; for made-to-order party pieces, 6–8 weeks ahead; for in-stock, a few weeks is plenty. For seasonal peaks — UK summer wedding season, Eid, and the winter wedding run — order even earlier, as these are the busiest times. Below is a season-by-season planner.
Timing is everything with made-to-order outfits. Here's exactly when to place your order, season by season.
The core lead times
| Type | Lead time | Order by |
|---|---|---|
| In-stock | ~10–12 days | 2–3 weeks before |
| Made-to-order | ~4–6 weeks | 6–8 weeks before |
| Heavy bridal | 3–4 months | 3–4 months before |
Always add time for delivery, alterations and a trial. (See how far in advance to order.)
Spring (Mar–May)
- Order Jan–Mar for spring events.
- Spring weddings and early Eid often fall here — popular, so order early. (See spring wedding outfits.)
Summer (Jun–Aug) — peak UK wedding season
- Order Mar–Jun — this is the busiest period.
- For a summer bridal, start 3–4 months ahead (so Feb–Apr). (See summer fabrics.)
Autumn (Sep–Nov)
- Order Jun–Sep.
- A lovely, slightly calmer season — rich tones and textures. (See autumn outfits.)
Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Order Sep–Dec.
- Winter weddings use heavier fabrics — allow time. (See winter outfits.)
Eid and festive peaks
Eid is a major peak. Because Eid dates shift earlier each year, order 5–6 weeks ahead of the expected date, and earlier for made-to-order. (See UK wedding season planner.)
Quick season-by-season cheat sheet
| Event season | Order window |
|---|---|
| Spring | Jan–Mar |
| Summer (peak) | Mar–Jun |
| Autumn | Jun–Sep |
| Winter | Sep–Dec |
Made to measure, in good time
AÏNN London makes your outfit to measure in your exact shade from 900+ hand-dyed colours, with a video before dispatch. Order in the windows above and you'll have time for delivery, alterations and a trial — no last-minute panic.
Browse the bridal collection, the party wear collection, or explore the colour library.
Frequently asked questions
When should I order my wedding outfit?
Work backwards from your event date with a buffer. In-stock pieces ship in about 10–12 days, made-to-order takes around 4–6 weeks, and heavy bridal needs 3–4 months. So order heavy bridal 3–4 months ahead, made-to-order party pieces 6–8 weeks ahead, and in-stock a few weeks ahead — plus time for alterations.
When is the busiest time to order?
UK summer wedding season (events June–August, so ordering March–June) is the busiest, along with Eid. Order earlier than usual for these peaks to be safe.
How early should I order for Eid?
Eid is a major peak and its date shifts earlier each year, so order around 5–6 weeks ahead of the expected date for in-stock, and earlier for made-to-order pieces.
What if I've left it late?
In-stock pieces ship fastest, in about 10–12 days, so they're your best bet if time is short. Made-to-order and especially heavy bridal need much longer, so order those as early as you can.
AÏNN London makes your outfit to measure in 900+ shades with a video before dispatch — order in the right window and you'll have time for alterations and a trial. Browse the collection.
Last updated: June 2026
