In the past, finding the perfect wedding dress was a magical but often stressful experience. Brides-to-be had to visit several bridal boutiques, sometimes traveling hours or even across states, to try on dresses and make their choice. But in today’s digital age, the rise of online bridal shops has revolutionized the wedding industry.
Now, brides can explore countless designs, compare prices, and shop for their dream dresses from the comfort of their own homes. This article dives deep into online bridal shops, helping brides-to-be understand the process, benefits, and top tips to find their perfect dress online.
Why Shop for Bridal Dresses Online?
It is the most important and difficult question for girls, what to wear to a fashion show or especially for their wedding. Online bridal shops offer a modern alternative to the traditional in-store experience. For many brides, shopping online’s convenience, variety, and affordability make it an attractive option. Here are a few reasons why shopping for your wedding dress online might be the perfect choice for you:
1. Convenience
One of the most significant advantages of online bridal shops is convenience. Brides no longer need to schedule multiple appointments or take time off work to visit boutique after boutique. Online shopping allows you to browse collections from the comfort of your home, any time of day. Whether sipping coffee in the morning or winding down after a long day, you can scroll through hundreds of dress options at your leisure.
2. Endless Variety
Unlike local bridal boutiques with limited space, online bridal shops offer various styles, designers, and sizes. Brides can access countless options, from vintage-inspired lace gowns to sleek modern designs. You’re sure to find something that fits your vision regardless of your taste or wedding theme.
3. Affordability
Traditional bridal boutiques often markup dresses significantly, thanks to overhead costs like rent, staffing, and stocking fees. Online bridal shops, on the other hand, usually operate with fewer overheads, allowing them to offer competitive prices. Many online retailers also offer sales or discounts, allowing brides to save on their dream gown without sacrificing quality.
4. Access to International Designers
Shopping online opens up a world of possibilities, literally. You’re not limited to local designers or the collections available in your country. With online bridal shops, brides can access collections from international designers that may not be available in local stores. Whether you want a gown from a famous Parisian designer or a trendy label from New York, the global market is at your fingertips.
5. Custom and Made-to-Order Gowns
Many online bridal shops offer made-to-order gowns, allowing brides to get a custom dress without the hefty price tag of bespoke tailoring. You can provide your measurements to ensure a more personalized fit. Some sites even offer customization options, such as changing the neckline, adding sleeves, or adjusting the length of the train, giving brides greater control over the final design.
How to Look Online for Your Wedding Gown
Shopping for a wedding dress online requires careful planning and research. While the convenience is unbeatable, there are a few important steps to ensure you get the perfect gown for your big day.
1. Set a Budget
Before you begin your online search, it’s essential to establish a clear budget. Wedding dresses can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so knowing how much you’re willing to spend will help narrow your options. Don’t forget to factor in additional costs like shipping, taxes, and potential alterations.
2. Know Your Measurements
Unlike in-store shopping, where you can try on a dress before purchasing, online shopping requires more preparation. It’s crucial to know your exact measurements before ordering a gown online. Grab a tape measure and jot down your bust, waist, hips, and length measurements. Compare these with the size chart on the online store’s website to ensure the best fit.
3. Read Reviews
Reviews from other brides can provide valuable insight into the quality of the dresses, the accuracy of sizing, and the overall experience with the retailer. Many online bridal shops have customer reviews on each dress page, where brides share photos and detailed feedback. Pay attention to common themes, such as whether the dress runs true to size or if any alterations are needed.
4. Look for Return Policies
While online bridal shops are convenient, buying a dress without trying it on can be daunting. Ensure that the online store has a clear and fair return policy, just in case the dress doesn’t meet your expectations. Some shops allow returns or exchanges, while others may only offer store credit. Before making a purchase, always make sure to read the fine print.
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5. Order in Advance
One potential downside of online bridal shopping is the waiting time for delivery. Many online bridal shops offer made-to-order dresses, meaning your gown can take weeks or months to arrive. To avoid last-minute stress, order your dress well in advance. Factor in enough time for alterations if necessary.
Top Online Bridal Shops to Consider
Now that we’ve covered the benefits and steps of online bridal shopping let’s explore some of the best online bridal shops available today. Each retailer has unique styles and offerings, ensuring every bride can find something she loves.
1. BHLDN
BHLDN, a sister brand to Anthropologie, is a favorite among brides seeking bohemian, vintage-inspired wedding dresses. With a wide range of styles, sizes, and prices, BHLDN offers something for every type of bride. The site also has an impressive selection of accessories, bridesmaid dresses, and wedding decor.
2. Azazie
Known for their affordable and customizable gowns, Azazie is a popular choice for brides on a budget. Azazie allows brides to input measurements for a more personalized fit, ensuring a great look without significant alterations. They also offer a try-at-home option, where you can order sample dresses to test out before committing to a purchase.
3. Lulus
Lulus offers chic, modern bridal gowns at budget-friendly prices. Perfect for brides looking for a simple yet elegant dress, Lulus has a curated selection of wedding dresses under $500. While their collection isn’t as extensive as some, their dresses are trendy and perfect for beach, backyard, or elopement weddings.
4. David’s Bridal
David’s Bridal is a well-known name in the wedding industry, and its online store makes it easy for brides to shop from anywhere. With various dresses in various price ranges, styles, and sizes (including plus sizes), David’s Bridal is a great option for brides seeking a classic look at an affordable price.
5. Net-a-Porter
For the luxury bride seeking a high-end designer gown, Net-a-Porter offers an impressive selection of couture dresses from world-renowned designers like Valentino, Oscar de la Renta, and more. While this option is pricier, it’s perfect for brides looking for the utmost sophistication and style.
6. Still white
Still white is a pre-loved wedding dress marketplace where brides can buy and sell dresses. This platform allows brides to purchase designer gowns at a fraction of the original cost. If you want to snag a luxury dress for less or sell your dress after the big day, Still white is a fantastic option.
Tips for a Successful Online Bridal Shopping Experience
Online shopping can be overwhelming, especially regarding something as significant as your wedding dress. Here are some additional tips to ensure a successful online bridal shopping experience:
Stick to Your Vision: With so many online options, feeling overwhelmed is easy. Before you start shopping, have a clear vision of what you want. Create a mood board or list key features (such as lace, long sleeves, or A-line silhouette) to keep your search focused.
Check Shipping Times:
Always pay attention to shipping times and ensure that your dress will arrive with plenty of time for any necessary adjustments.
Have a Backup Plan:
If you’re nervous about buying online, order a backup dress from a retailer with a generous return policy. If your first choice doesn’t work out, you’ll have a plan B.
Don’t Forget Accessories:
Many online bridal shops also sell veils, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories, making completing your wedding day look in one place easy.
Conclusion
Online bridal shops have changed the game for modern brides, offering convenience, variety, and affordability without compromising style or quality. You can find the wedding dress of your dreams online by following the right steps, doing thorough research, and planning. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a couture designer gown, online shopping opens up a world of possibilities for your special day. Happy shopping!
Everything should be perfect for a bride, so for fashion nails, one should explore our guide to modern nail trends.
