Just got back from a trip to Boston and New York, thus the relative inactivity here this past week. One of the highlights from the trip was that I went wedding dress shopping with one of my bridesmaids, Kris! She has a pretty good write up about her view here, and I thought I'd expand on that and share my personal take home messages:
- I liked wedding dress shops with natural lighting. It's such an obvious thing, but you really don't want to be contemplating the difference between ivory and diamond white under harsh fluorescent lights if possible.
- Discount/sample wedding shops are an absolute bargain but also an absolute hit and miss. I totally missed but it was a good experience to have. If there was such a thing near me, I would consider going every weekend to check out new stock. You also have to be prepared for less than perfect dresses so make sure the shop offers free repair jobs.
- Service goes such a long way! My best experience was with a place I didn't find anything but the lady was very sweet and helpful. In contrast, the place where I found a possible dress, I would think twice about using.
- David's bridal definitely fills a niche but I didn't enjoy the shopping experience at all. It was really impersonal and I didn't like having so many strangers seeing me try on dresses and make comments. No one said anything bad! (although one lady said I looked like a geisha, hmmm) But really, it was unnecessary noise and distraction.
- A higher end designer store does result in fabulous, personal, princess-type service. Of course, it also comes with a princess type prices. That said, my two favourite dresses came from here and another brand that cost half as much.
And what were my favourite dresses?
Craig, avert your eyes!!
My faves were Cosimma from Melissa Sweet and Accra from Blue by Enzoani (go here, click Collections -> 08 -> Top row, third one)
I don't think those pictures do them justice as I didn't even bookmark them when I was pre-investigating for the trip.
Cosimma had beautiful and clever ruching and draping. The flower details were just perfect and the kind of unique detailing I'd love for my dress.
The Accra dress had a bit of everything, ruched bust, Swarovski detailing, and tulle over asymetrical lace (creating a particularly stunning effect). I've actually found a Scottish supplier and am trying to fit in a fitting for when we're up up there next week!
Dress hunting is by no means over. As different as those dresses are, I really really liked them both. Really! I have an all day dress day this Saturday with my maid of honor. We're ending the day at a desiger dress sale so who knows what's in store for us!