Despite restrictions relaxing, many businesses are holding onto innovations from the pandemic. One that I am a big fan of, is virtual clothes shopping. This ranges from try before you buy, to custom alterations, or even creations. While subscription boxes have already paved the way for this, some of the following businesses have taken it a step further.
*Please note: Some of the following prices and information may change after this posting.
From Left to Right: Michelle by Lyra Vega Bridal (Photo @jessinatraphoto); Deb by Lyra Vega Bridal (Photo: All The Little Stories Photography); Thea by Lyra Vega Bridal (Photo: Elizabeth LaDuca Photography).
This somewhat edgy bridal gown boutique prides itself on catering to #smartbrides. They have a great variety of styles and will have something for almost everyone. My one tiny critique: every dress is in shades of white. With the amount of customization available, you might be able to have a more colorful dress made, but none are currently advertised.
Method
Choose a style of dress to purchase.
Take measurements (they offer a guide if you're not sure how).
After submitting your information and payment, your custom dress will arrive in 8 weeks.
Pricing $600-$1,200
While priding themselves on affordability, their price range would be the lower to mid-range of most store-bought dresses. If you are balking at paying that much without trying on first, they do have a return/exchange policy.
From Left to Right: Maternity Dress Jewel by Kennedy Blue, Jumpsuit Angelina by Kennedy Blue, Plus-Size Dress Bailey by Kennedy Blue, Keyhole Dress Katie by Kennedy Blue.
Focusing mainly on bridesmaid dresses, Kennedy Blue also strives to offer more affordable and high-quality options. If you were wanting a colored dress, don't be deterred by them being labeled "bridesmaid", no one gets to tell you what you can and cannot wear! Their sizes range from juniors to 32 and even include maternity, so nearly everyone should be able to find something that fits. Also, their color and style selection is insane, they even have jumpsuits!
Method
Choose a color, first swatches are free.
Order a sample to try on, shipping is free both ways, but there is a $10 try-on fee for bridesmaid dresses and a $25 fee for bridal gowns.
After ordering, the dress will be made. This may take 8-12 weeks for bridesmaid dresses or up to 18 weeks for bridal gowns.
Pricing: $99-$899
This Minnesota boutique is truly striving to make dress shopping easy and affordable. While you still may need some alterations, you won't find dresses at these prices and sizes at brick and mortar bridal boutiques.
Taking a step away from affordable e-boutiques, we have the giant that is Cocomelody. Bringing together small designers under one roof, the variety is seemingly endless and always changing. While "designer" usually evokes clothing on the smaller side, they have options going into US 28. And did I mention? They have BLACK wedding dresses!
Method
Choose 1-3 dresses, with a $25 fee per dress to try. If you aren't sure about what size or silhouette works, you can add dress shells to your order.
You have 3 days to try on samples before returning (shipping is free both ways).
Order your dress online and wait for it to be made. This can take 3-5 weeks and shipping may take a little over a week.
Pricing: $81-$1,999
With this crazy price range and variety to choose from, almost anyone should be able to find something they love and can afford from Cocomelody.
All of the above images are of bespoke dresses from Anomalie.
Finally, we have the no holds bar, money is no object, option. Anomalie allows you to partner with a designer and craft the ultimate unique dress. No detail is too small, and customization is encouraged. If you want an incredibly personalized experience, Anomalie is for you.
Method
Start by taking a style questionnaire to help you and your stylist narrow down your preferences.
Give your budget for your wedding dress. If your budget is below $1,000, they will not be able to accommodate you. You can choose the semi-custom option at $1,800 to $1,000, and above this, you are open to fully customizable options.
Next, you'll give details on what types of fabric you want to be incorporated. This will even include your skin tone if you want a nude illusion piece added.
After finishing the questionnaire, it will give you a general style, like Boho, to help create your Lookbook.
From this point you can begin designing your dress for a small fee (they are running a $5 special right now), receiving fabric swatches, and meeting with your dedicated stylist. If you like the design shown to you, you will pay in full and wait 2-4 months to receive your dress.
Pricing: $1,399-$3,000+
Semi-custom options start at $1,399 and increase depending on the amount of customization. Fully customized dresses can go far beyond this depending on fabric and complexity, but Anomalie's website states that most of their dresses are made for under $2,000. It should also be noted, that if you want a fully customized gown, it can take longer to produce, and should be ordered at least 6 months out from the wedding.
If you're struggling with the planning process, or just want to be sure you're on the right track, consider contacting me. I offer partial planning for those needing help in specific areas and a Roadmap package for those just getting started.
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