When it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress, brides today have more options than ever before. From the personal service of bridal boutiques to the convenience of department stores, the vast selection of online retailers, and even the charm of second-hand shops, there’s something for every bride and budget.
This guide will walk you through where to buy a wedding dress, ensuring that you feel confident, stylish, and comfortable on your big day.
Brides Often Ask
How much is a wedding dress normally?
The average cost of a wedding dress in the US is around $1,000 to $2,000, but prices can range widely from $100 to $10,000 or more.
Who is supposed to buy the wedding dress for the bride?
Traditionally, the bride or her family pays for the wedding dress. However, modern couples often share wedding expenses or make their own arrangements.
ADVERTISEMENT
Bridal Boutiques
Bridal boutiques offer a personal touch when shopping for wedding dresses. You’ll find exclusive collections and expert advice. You can ask married friends or check online reviews to find a good boutique.
During your appointment, expect one-on-one attention from a consultant. They’ll help you try on dresses and suggest styles that suit you. Boutiques often have a wider range of sizes and can order custom dresses. While prices may be higher, the service is usually top-notch. Remember to book ahead, especially on weekends! Some of the most popular wedding boutiques include Kleinfeld Bridal in New York and The White Room in Birmingham, Alabama.
ADVERTISEMENT
Department Stores
Department stores are great places to shop for wedding dresses, especially if you’re looking for affordable wedding gowns. They offer convenience and a wide selection under one roof. Popular stores like like Nordstrom and Macy’s have dedicated bridal sections where you can shop wedding dresses. You’ll find various styles and sizes, often at lower prices than boutiques.
These stores are excellent for brides seeking affordable wedding gowns without compromising on quality. Shopping here is more relaxed, with less pressure to buy. However, you might not get as much personal attention.
To make the most of your visit, research the store’s bridal offerings online first. Many department stores also let you shop wedding dresses online before visiting in person. Try to shop during quieter times for a better experience when browsing affordable wedding gowns in-store.
ADVERTISEMENT
Traveling for Wedding Dress Shopping
When it comes to finding the perfect wedding dress, many brides are now considering traveling as part of their shopping experience. To shed light on the benefits of this trend, we turn to Emily Coyne, the visionary behind Emily Coyne Events. As a renowned wedding planner and event designer, Emily’s extensive experience in the wedding industry has made her a trusted authority on creating unforgettable bridal experiences. Her insights on the advantages of traveling for wedding dress shopping will help brides-to-be discover why this journey might be worth taking.
ADVERTISEMENT
Benefits of Traveling for Wedding Dress Shopping
Taking a weekend away to shop for a wedding dress is a fun experience that forces you to disconnect from the cares of home and will add a touch of glamor and excitement to your planning process. Wedding planning goes by incredibly fast, so it’s a great idea to spend the extra time and soak in these special moments leading up to your big day.
You’ll find a much greater variety of wedding gown boutiques in cities like New York and LA, as well as a wider variety of gowns within the boutiques in these cities. If there’s a particular designer you love, it’s likely you’ll need to travel to visit their specific atelier or find salons that carry that designer. Keep in mind that their flagship salon will always have the most selection.
Advice for Brides Traveling for a Wedding Dress
- Almost all salons are appointment only, so be sure to make your appointments early in the planning process.
- Look at pictures ahead of time and save images that you like – it sometimes takes time to develop a sense for the kind of fit, neckline, train, back, and other details that you like. This isn’t something that you want to rush or cram in over a couple of days, so it’s best if you can devote 10 – 15 minutes to this a few times a week.
- Don’t look only at the designers’ websites, as many of the gowns they feature are from runway shows or purposefully styled to look explicitly high fashion and may not appear “bridal” to you. Plus, they may only be showing their most recent collection on their website.
- Even if you have a very clear sense of what you want, be open to trying on some other styles or necklines once you actually go shopping
- For the most enjoyable dress shopping experience, we suggest 2 salons in a day – one before lunch and one after. Three is possible but starts to feel tiring and takes the fun away. Four is going to feel miserable and as though it’s becoming a chore.
- Keep in mind that many salons are closed on Sundays.
- Wear a nude strapless bra and clothing that doesn’t pull over your head. Also, do your hair and makeup and bring a pair of heels with you to the appointment.
ADVERTISEMENT
Online Retailers
Buying wedding dresses online opens up a world of options. The internet has revolutionized bridal shopping, with countless wedding dresses online to explore. You’ll find a huge selection and often lower prices. Popular wedding dress websites include BHLDN, David’s Bridal , and Azazie. To shop safely, always read reviews and check return policies.
Take accurate measurements and compare them to size charts. Look for wedding dress sites with virtual try-on features or free fabric swatches. Many websites specializing in online bridal dresses offer detailed videos and photos to help you visualize the dress. Don’t rush – take your time browsing and comparing.
Shopping for wedding gowns online allows you to save favorites and compare styles easily. Remember, alterations might be needed, so factor that into your budget. With patience and research, finding your perfect wedding dress on these wedding dress sites can be a rewarding experience.
Designer Showrooms
Designer showrooms offer a luxurious dress-shopping experience. You can often meet the designer and see their latest collections. To find events, follow bridal designers on social media or sign up for their newsletters. At showrooms, you might be able to customize your dress. Bring inspiration photos and be open to suggestions. These dresses can be pricey, but the quality is usually top-notch. Book appointments well in advance, especially for popular designers.
For designer trunk shows, keep an eye out for events at high-end bridal boutiques. Many famous designers like Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, and Hayley Paige hold trunk shows where you can view and try on their latest collections. These events often offer special discounts or customization options not available during regular store hours.
ADVERTISEMENT
Second-Hand and Vintage Shops
Second-hand wedding dresses can be a great way to save money and find unique styles. These are often excellent sources for cheap wedding dresses that don’t compromise on quality. Check out shops like Nearly Newlywed or Still White online. For vintage, try Etsy or local vintage stores. Always inspect dresses carefully for damage.
Factor in cleaning and alteration costs. Many brides find incredible dresses this way – some even score designer gowns at a fraction of the original price. It’s eco-friendly too! If you’re on a tight budget, second-hand shops are goldmines for cheap wedding dresses that look stunning.
Remember, a cheap wedding dress doesn’t mean it can’t be your dream dress – many brides find amazing deals this way.
Bridal Expos and Trunk Shows
Bridal expos and trunk shows are fun ways to see lots of dresses quickly. You’ll find the latest trends and maybe some good deals. At expos, you can also meet local vendors. For trunk shows, you might see dresses not normally in stores. Bring a notebook to jot down favorites.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to change out of. Check bridal magazines or local event listings to find upcoming shows in your area.
Some of the biggest bridal shows in the United States include The Wedding Salon, held in major cities like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles, and The Great Bridal Expo, which tours across the country. In Europe, the Barcelona Bridal Fashion Week is a renowned event showcasing international designers. The National Wedding Show in the UK is another major exhibition, held in London, Birmingham, and Manchester.
ADVERTISEMENT
Custom-Made Dresses
Getting a custom wedding dress means it’s made just for you. You choose the style, fabric, and details. Find a dressmaker through recommendations or bridal shops. Custom dresses ensure a perfect fit but can be pricey.
Start early – they often take 6-8 months to make. Bring inspiration photos to your first meeting. Be open to suggestions from the designer. Remember, you’ll need several fittings as the dress is made.
Renting a Wedding Dress
Renting a wedding dress can save money and closet space, making it a great option for those seeking affordable bridal gowns. Sites like Rent the Runway offer designer dresses for a fraction of the purchase price, providing access to stunning affordable bridal dresses. You can often try on dresses before renting, ensuring you find the perfect affordable bridal gown for your big day.
The downside? You can’t keep the dress or make major alterations. But it’s great for brides on a budget or those who don’t want to store a dress long-term. Renting is an excellent way to wear high-end affordable bridal dresses without the high-end price tag. Always check the rental period and any damage policies before booking. This option allows you to wear beautiful affordable bridal gowns while staying within your budget.
Sample Sales and Off-the-Rack Dresses
Sample sales offer big discounts on designer dresses. These are dresses that have been tried on in stores. Off-the-rack means you can take the dress home immediately. Both options can save you money, but sizes might be limited.
Bring a friend to help you shop – these sales can be hectic! Check the dress carefully for any damage before buying. Factor in cleaning and alteration costs. Follow bridal shops on social media to hear about upcoming sales.
Whether you choose the personalized service of a bridal boutique, the affordability and convenience of department stores, or the vast selection available through online retailers, the right dress is out there for every bride.
Designer showrooms, second-hand shops, and custom-made options allow for even more tailored and special choices. For those seeking budget-friendly alternatives, renting or exploring trunk shows can lead to stunning gowns without breaking the bank.
ADVERTISEMENT
