25 Best Places to Buy Wedding Dresses for Every Size, Shape, and Style (2024)

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    • The Best Places to Buy Wedding Dresses Online

      The Best Shops for Vintage Wedding Dresses

      Everything to Know About Bridal Salons

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      Buying an Off-the-Rack Gown: The Basics

      Should You Rent Your Wedding Dress?

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    The Ultimate Guide to Wedding Dress Shopping

    25 Best Places to Buy Wedding Dresses for Every Size, Shape, and Style (1)

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    Sophie Moore

    25 Best Places to Buy Wedding Dresses for Every Size, Shape, and Style (2)

    Sophie Moore

    Sophie Moore is a former Brides editor and current contributing writer. With over five years of experience in bridal, she is an expert on all things fashion.

    Brides's Editorial Guidelines

    Updated on 01/31/24 10:52AM

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    25 Best Places to Buy Wedding Dresses for Every Size, Shape, and Style (3)

    Say yes to shopping online for your wedding dress! Many beloved retailers now offer well-curated bridal collections that include everything you need for your walk down the aisle. Whether you want to go the ready-to-wear route or are looking for something non-traditional, it's easier than ever to find a wedding gown (or a mini dress, separates, or suit) that fits your style, body type, and budget.

    To curate our list of the best places to buy a wedding gown, we polled Brides staffers about their own online shopping experiences, interviewed wedding stylists, consulted bridal fashion business owners, and dedicated countless hours to online research. The sites we chose offer wide size ranges, convenient shipping and returns policies, helpful size guides and styling resources, and an overall excellent online shopping experience. Beyond size, you'll also want to pay attention to the range of silhouettes, bodice and sleeve style, and the specific fabrics used.

    "Buying a wedding dress online is convenient," saysRanu Coleman, chief marketing officer ofAzazie. "You can enjoy the experience from the comfort of your own home and still have your friends and family involved in the process." Still, not knowing if you've foundthe dressuntil you can try it on can add some stress to the process, especially if you're on a tight timeline. That's why this guide also includes tips on what to look for when searching for your dream dress on the web.

    Read on for the best places to buy wedding dresses online and everything else you need to know.

    In This Article

    • Our Picks

    • What to Look For

    • FAQ

    • Why Trust Brides

    Lulus Wedding Dresses

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    Brides on a budget, we've got you covered! Lulus is our go-to online store for on-trend wedding dresses that won't break the bank. Bridal designs in graphic lace, dreamy organza, and body-skimming stretch knit will only set you back $100 or less. Besides the affordable prices, we love how easy it is to shop the site. Lulus organizes its designs into different dress codes, fabrics, and styles (think boho vs modern). One of the disadvantages of online shopping is getting overwhelmed by too many options, but Lulus lets us focus on just what we are looking for. And whenever a dress we like is out of stock, the site recommends nearly identical styles to shop.

    Depending on your budget, you may have some room leftover to grab one of Lulus's adorable little white dresses for your wedding reception outfit change. The shoe selection is also superb, and we've had heels from Lulus last us more than five years. It's easy to get free standard shipping by simply spending $50. Technically, orders can be returned within 30 days of delivery, but to get free return shipping, it has to be sent within 10 days of delivery. This isn't our favorite return policy on this list, but with retail prices so low, we don't mind having to be more on top of our returns (or paying the $7 for return shipping).

    Size Range: XXS–3X | Shipping: Free standard on $50+ | Returns: Free within 10 days; $7 fee after 10 days

    Anthropologie Wedding Dresses

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    In-store and online, Anthropologie caters to bridal styles for the boho bride, the classic bride, the plus-size bride, and the bride on a budget. When browsing the site or the racks in-store, expect to find fresh and exciting styles from major designers such as Jenny Yoo, Watters, and Amsale. Brides looking for ultra-feminine creations can expect to find gowns made of tiers of cascading ruffles and soft tulle designs dotted with floral embroidery. For the traditional bride, check out Anthropologie's modern take on the classic ball gown.

    Another factor that sets the retailer apart is that it merges both online and in-person shopping. You can browse dresses online and then make a free appointment to try them on at your local Anthropologie store. This has saved us time since we weren't blindly going to a bridal salon with no clue of what styles were available.

    Whether you've found the dress through one of their online consultants or by browsing the site on your own, Anthropologie also makes it easy to build out your wedding day look with a plethora of gorgeous accessories. You'll find everything from "Something Blue" shoes to exquisite cathedral-length veils.

    Size Range: 0–26 | Shipping: $15 for wedding gowns and bridal sets | Returns: Within 30 days; $6 fee

    Nordstrom Wedding Dresses

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    If you're hoping to shop for your entire wedding day ensemble in one place, look no further than Nordstrom. The major retailer carries a small collection of wedding gowns that are available online, featuring big names like Tadashi Shoji and Amsale. If you're looking for a pop of color for your rehearsal dinner dress or any party in between, head over to Nordstrom's Designer Collections. Take your pick of embroidered cocktail dresses perfect for a black-tie wedding or shop laid-back styles suited for a summer or destination wedding.

    The majority of their wedding dresses are carried in selected stores only, but once you've found a dress you'd like to try on, you can simply book an appointment at one of Nordstrom's in-store wedding suites. You can also get your dress altered directly at Nordstrom. We're all for one less errand to run.

    Yet our favorite thing about shopping at Nordstrom is that they have the best shipping and return policy from all the retailers on this list. All orders ship for free and you get unlimited, free returns. Yup, there is no time limit as to when you can return an item (we've returned plenty of items months later). We know one of the hardest parts about returns is finding the time to ship it back, but Nordstrom makes the process easier by letting you drop off your returns curbside at a store location. When shipping by mail, you don't even need to print the return label. Just bring the package to a USPS location, and they can scan a QR code and print the label for you. Without all the headaches of shipping and returns, it's easier to order the same item in multiple sizes to get the best fit.

    Size Range: 00–28, petite and maternity available | Shipping: Free standard | Returns: Free

    Reformation Wedding Dresses

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    Whether you're throwing a laidback backyard wedding, getting married at city hall, or eloping, Reformation has a wedding dress for you. Minimalist brides will love Reformation's selection of unfussy slip dresses, and modern brides will gravitate towards the brand's simple silhouettes. If you're a bride with a bohemian sensibility, you'll adore Reformation's flowy frocks and mini dresses. Surprisingly, the site doesn't list customer reviews, which is one of our biggest pet peeves when shopping online, since we like the feedback on how pieces look and feel in real life. But we've learned to size up from experience.

    Reformation offers free shipping and returns on all orders, and it's important to note that there are no frills involved, even when shipping a wedding dress. One of our editors was disappointed to find her wedding dress folded, pressed down, and shipped in a small envelope. Be prepared to steam your dress once it arrives to try it on and properly see how it fits. If you don't want to deal with the pomp and circumstance of trying on wedding dresses in person and waiting months for your gown to be made and shipped, you'll appreciate Reformation's fast and casual shopping experience.

    Size Range: XS–3X, petite available | Shipping: Free standard | Returns: Within 30 days

    Amazon Wedding Dresses

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    Between the lightning-fast shipping and the affordable price ranges, Amazon is a go-to online shopping source across all categories from fashion to beauty to home goods and everything in between. And yes, that includes wedding dresses! Whether you're throwing a budget-conscious wedding or you need a dress in a hurry (hello, Prime shipping!), Amazon offers a slew of white gowns to choose from, starting at just $34.

    From glamorous silk dresses and classic ballgowns to reception-ready minis, brides can find a frock for just about any formality, venue, and season. Plus, you'll find a range of sizes from XXS up to 5XL. Not only that, but Amazon is also an excellent source for all of your wedding accessories, such as your veil, hair pins, or bridal clutch.

    Size Range: XXS–5XL | Shipping: Free 2-day with Prime membership | Returns: Free returns

    ASOS Wedding Dresses

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    Similar to Lulus, ASOS offers a wide selection of trendy yet affordable wedding dresses. To prevent decision paralysis, there are filters for different dress styles, necklines, and lengths, including sleeve length. We also appreciate the decent selection of maternity, petite, and plus-size wedding dresses. One of our favorite features is the videos of models wearing the items. This gives us a better idea of how a dress moves and fits from all angles, which are key insights when shopping online. Though the dresses are not as expensive, they still are high quality and have earned us many compliments over the years.

    ASOS is our go-to for online shopping, not just bridal, because they make shipping and returns fast and convenient. It's easy to meet the $49.99 minimum to get free shipping, and they can ship orders to UPS or Nordstrom for pick-up. We like this option when ordering precious items like a wedding dress since we don't have to worry about the package getting lost or stolen from our doorstep. Wedding dresses come on a hanger packed in a special garment bag. Returns are free through UPS, but you do have to print the label, which can be a hassle when living without a printer.

    Size Range: 0–26, petite available | Shipping: Free standard on $50+ | Returns: Within 28 days

    David's Bridal Wedding Dresses

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    David's Bridal is a tried and true wedding dress retailer. From body-inclusive gowns to stylish bridal party dresses to killer sales, David's Bridal has something for everyone. Shop gowns in petite to plus-size from notable designers like White by Vera Wang, Oleg Cassini, and Melissa Sweet. The best part? Most of David's Bridal's wedding dresses retail for under $2,000 and their DB Studio collection even offers gorgeous dresses for under $200.

    Despite David's Bridal's lower prices, we've found the quality of its dresses to rival those that are more expensive, plus the sizing is consistent across different styles. While you're at it, browse bridal accessories, wedding shoes, and stunning bridal lingerie. David's Bridal also offers an in-depth online measurement guide, but if you're still unsure, pop into one of the many locations to get fitted by an expert tailor. You can also schedule a virtual consultation with a stylist to get personalized dress recommendations at home or through chat 24/7.

    Consider joining the site's free Diamond Loyalty Rewards program to enjoy extra discounts and earn points with every purchase.

    Size Range: 0–30, petite and maternity available | Shipping: Free standard on $120+ | Returns: Within 7 days; $12 fee

    Shopbop Wedding Dresses

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    Throwing a chic courthouse wedding? If you're tying the knot at city hall, Shopbop's selection of wedding dresses won't disappoint. Prepare to be obsessed with simple slinky slips from Olivia Von Halle, structured statement-making styles from Hellesy, and affordable mini dresses from WAYF. Take a peek at impressive and heavily beaded designs from Marchesa Notte and coveted bridal brand Costarellos. If you're in need of a dress for a destination wedding or want some amazing outfits for your honeymoon, delight in supremely light cotton pieces from LoveShackFancy and Zimmermann. While you're at it, browse Shopbop's jewelry collections and shop around the gift boutique, where you'll find items like adorable makeup cases and hair accessories that make great bridal party gifts.

    Shopbop hosts more sales than other luxe retailers, even on designer items, which we love. The free two-day shipping—which comes if you have Amazon Prime— has saved us many times when we needed a dress for a last-minute party or the dry cleaners suddenly decided to close right before a wedding.

    Size Range: XXS–2XL | Shipping: Free 3-day | Returns: Within 15 days

    Bridal by Eloquii

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    Specializing in sizes 14-28, Eloquii recently launched a bridal collection and we want it all. The collection spans wedding gowns, pantsuits, jumpsuits, and accessories like bridal belts and gloves, which can be especially hard to find in inclusive sizes. Always pushing the envelope, Eloquii even has ball gowns in pink and black hues for the non-traditional bride.

    Unfortunately, the bridal collection is not included in any of the site's sales or discounts. Even though the dresses are not made to order, they tend to take five additional business days to ship, so be mindful of that and give yourself plenty of time to receive your order.

    Size Range: 14–28 | Shipping: Free standard on $125+ | Returns: Within 14 days; shipping fee

    Net-a-Porter Wedding Dresses

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    Net-a-Porter boasts a stylish collection of wedding-worthy dresses like architectural gowns by Gabriela Hearst, classic silhouettes from Brandon Maxwell, and light and lacey midis from Self-Portrait. Once you've found the one, check out the rest of Net-a-Porter's bridal selection and you might just find the perfect rehearsal dinner jumpsuit or afterparty separates. If the groom shares your excellent taste in fashion, head over to MrPorter and send some suit and tuxedo options his way.

    Net-a-Porter excels at creating a luxury shopping experience while shopping online. Even when we've ordered regular, non-bridal items, the clothes arrived in garment bags and on hangers. Those living in the New York City area can enjoy premier shipping, including same-day delivery within a two-hour window. Think Prime but for designer clothes. Returns are also seamless, with the option to schedule a free returns pickup, so there's no need to leave the house.

    Size Range: 00–18 | Shipping: Free standard | Returns: Within 28 days

    Revolve Wedding Dresses

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    You know Revolve for their chic and sexy dresses, but you may not have considered them when it comes to shopping for your wedding dress. Well, we're here to tell you that Revolve carries a small but notable edit of white gowns that are worth checking out. Geared towards the bride who dares to bare, you'll find sultry styles with thigh-high slits, dresses with lingerie-inspired bustier bodices, and striking illusion paneling. Revolve also carries an item or two for the traditional bride with gowns made from classic satin and crepe fabrics.

    For all of your other events, Revolve has sparkly short numbers for your bachelorette party, floral frocks for your garden rehearsal dinner, cotton mini dresses for your destination wedding, and even jaw-dropping lingerie for your wedding night and beyond.

    While some other bridal retailers take weeks if not months to get your dress to you, Revolve is beloved by our team for its free two-day shipping on all orders. Sure, you may not be ordering your dress two days before your wedding, but just in case you forget a bridal clutch or need an extra change of shoes, you know who to turn to. They also accept returns within 60 days, which is longer than most sites on this list, and the label is prepaid (yay!).

    Size Range: XXS–4X | Shipping: Free 2-day | Returns: Within 60 days

    Needle & Thread Wedding Dresses

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    If you're a bride searching for an exquisite gown that features eye-catching sparkle or voluminous cascading ruffles, then Needle & Thread is the perfect match for your bold aesthetic. In its online wedding shop, you'll find gowns embroidered with beads and sequins galore, dramatic silhouettes, and feminine floral prints.

    For brides who are unabashed by vibrant and statement-making colors, Needle & Thread offers a section of ready-to-wear gowns in bright pastel hues and rich jewel tones. The shipping minimum is a bit higher than other places, but it's easy to reach when splurging on a wedding gown. And in case you need to return anything, DHL will kindly pick up your package for you.

    Size Range: 0–18 | Shipping: Free standard on $350+ | Returns: Within 14 days; $10 fee

    Etsy Anna Skoblikova

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    Anna Skoblikova is a star seller on Etsy for a reason, and classic brides will love the brand's whimsical handmade designs. The store's selection of couture gowns is fit for glamorous brides who want a memorable walk down the aisle. If you want something completely unique, the seller will create a custom gown, from the sketch to the final design.

    The Etsy shop offers a wide range of intricate designs, including embellished floor-length frocks, regal long-sleeve gowns, allover lace options, and more. Plus, the seller is praised for having quick and easy communication throughout the shopping and designing process. With almost 1,000 dresses sold and an average review rating of 4.8 or higher, you can trust that your dream dress is in good hands when you shop from Anna Skobilkova.

    Size Range: XXS–5XL | Shipping: Free | Returns: Within 14 days

    MATCHESFASHION Wedding Dresses

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    At the top of 2020, MATCHESFASHION launched their highly anticipated Wedding Edit shop. Here you'll find scores of impossibly chic dresses from coveted designers like Rodarte, Saint Laurent, Emilia Wickstead, Erdem —the list goes on. Whether you're looking to make a high-end fashion statement in a structured gown with a crisp oversized bow or bring the drama in head-to-toe feathers, you'll be sure to secure a wedding day outfit that none of your friends have worn.

    Those living in New York City (including all boroughs), the Hamptons, and select parts of New Jersey can enjoy next-day delivery. Even better, returns are free nationwide and you can book a return service for them to pick up your package for you.

    Size Range: 3XS–3XL | Shipping: Free standard on $300+ | Returns: Within 28 days

    Moda Operandi Wedding Dresses

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    Moda Operandi has us swooning over their highly curated online bridal edit of ultra-luxe designs. From clean and classic pieces by Carolina Herrera Bridal to the newest styles from Brock Collection and Markarian, choosing just one favorite will prove to be a challenge. Moda Operandi is also known for its online bridal trunk shows featuring coveted designers such as Vera Wang, Danielle Frankel, and Oscar de la Renta where all gowns can be bought directly online. These trunk shows only last for a limited time so check the site regularly.

    If you're also looking for a one-stop shop for bridal accessories, you're in luck! Not only does Moda Operandi offer bridal shoes, bags, and jewelry, but you can also browse the site for chic clutches from Cult Gaia, exquisite shoes from Prada, and jewelry that you won't be able to leave the site without.

    With how hard it is to reach a real human in customer care nowadays, we appreciate how Moda offers a customer service hotline every day of the week. Feel free to ask them questions about a particular style as well as the status of your order.

    Size Range: 0–16 | Shipping: Rates vary | Returns: Within 28 days

    Tadashi Shoji Wedding Dresses

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    If you love bows, capes, and allover lace, then you've come to the right place! Tadashi Shoji offers scores of wedding dresses for every bridal style. Shop slightly off-the-shoulder numbers with illusion bodices adorned with intricate lace, simple sheath gowns, and body-hugging silhouettes. Romantics at heart will love sweet details like Victorian-inspired puff sleeves and frothy tulle flocked with Swiss dots. Brides looking for little white dresses need not look any further than Tadashi Shoji's collection of mini, midi, and tea-length dresses in allover beading or graphic lace. The site makes shopping easy with filters for sleeve length, neckline, fabric, and even body type.

    Tadashi Shoji is also known for his beautiful and flattering mother-of-the-bride and mother-of-the-groom dresses with styles offered in deep jewel tones, pastels, and radiant metallics. Overwhelmed by all the options? Book a virtual styling appointment to get expert advice on how to pick a dress and even how to hem it.

    Size Range: 00–18 | Shipping: Free standard | Returns: Within 15 days

    Etsy Flora & Lane

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    Calling all boho brides! If you're in search of your dream wedding gown, look no further than Flora & Lane on Etsy. The popular seller provides bohemian luxe wedding gowns designed with unexpected yet elegant details—think florals, bold colors, eye-catching embroidery, crochet lace, big bell sleeves, and more.

    Etsy reviewers rave about the store's beautiful styles, as well as its communicative and helpful service. With wedding dress prices starting at under $500, Flora & Lane has something for a variety of budgets and styles for every season.

    Size Range: 0–28 | Shipping: Free | Returns: Inquire with seller

    Farfetch Wedding Dresses

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    Non-traditional and fashion-forward brides will gush over endless ready-to-wear options from Farfetch. If you're no stranger to the site, then you know it offers a bevy of luxe gowns and accessories by famed designers such as Giambattista Valli and Saint Laurent. From exaggerated tulle gowns to body-skimming slips and modern jumpsuits, you're bound to find a style that speaks to you. If you're a lover of all things vintage, explore the site's selection of pre-owned items; you might just end up finding your "something old" or your "something blue."

    Size Range: 3XS–4XL | Shipping: Free on $200+ | Returns: Within 14 days

    Azazie Wedding Dresses

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    If you're looking for a wedding dress that's well made, fashionable, and budget-friendly, check out Azazie's impressive selection of wedding dresses—most of which retail for under $300. From sexy fit-and-flare gowns to boho-inspired silhouettes and flirty mini dresses, Azazie truly offers something for everyone. For those of us who are indecisive, Azazie offers a "try at home" option, where you can try up to three dresses for $15 each, including shipping. After a week of testing it out at home, you ship it back with the prepaid label and then you can make your final decision.

    Once you've landed on your dream gown, explore scores of affordable bridal party dresses in tons of stylish iterations and colors that are sure to please even the most discerning people in your bridal party. You can also get three free swatches, so you can see the fabrics in person and choose the best colors for your bridesmaids. Rather than picking one dress for everyone, we know brides that selected a single shade from Azazie and simply asked their bridal party to choose amongst the 30 or so dresses in that color. This assured the bride that their bridal party would coordinate while giving the bridesmaids the freedom to choose a dress they loved. Your bridesmaids can also shop by different features, including very specific details, like slit, padding, and the type of back.

    Size Range: 0–30 | Shipping: Free on $120+ | Returns: Within 30 days; 5% restocking fee

    Markarian Bridal Wedding Dresses

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    New York City-based brand Markarian is quickly becoming the go-to online shop for chic brides in the know. For Markarian, the beauty is in the details. Shop designs that are crafted from the finest fabrics and finished with exquisite touches such as contrasting light blue sashes, pearl embellished straps, and expertly draped bodices. Whether you're getting married at the courthouse or in the gardens of a grand estate, Markarian has a dress for you. Be sure to read the fine print and check if a dress is returnable, as the return policy depends on the specific item.

    Size Range: 0–16 | Shipping: 12–16 weeks | Returns: Varies by item

    Amsale Wedding Dresses

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    Amsale's expertly made and timeless wedding gowns are a classic bride's dream. While you can only purchase Amsale gowns through one of their retailers, the Nouvelle Amsale line is available for purchase online. Choose from stretch crepe sheath gowns with delicate lace sleeves, classic ball gowns with structured bodices, and fit and flare gowns complete with shoulder bow details. We like that we can shop by fabric and range. Do keep in mind that all bridal dresses are final sale and non-returnable.

    Prefer to design your own gown from the comfort of your home? Amsale x You allows you to do just that. Simply choose your preferred silhouette from the library of interchangeable silhouettes, then pick your fabric, bodice shape, and skirt style to create a wedding dress that feels uniquely you.

    Size Range: 0–24 | Shipping: Free on $75+; 10 weeks for production | Returns: No returns or exchanges

    Danielle Hirsch—the designer behind Danielle Frankel—introduced her namesake label in 2017. Her chic, edgy, and different designs quickly gained popularity, especially among celebrity brides. In 2020, the cool-girl brand launched its new e-commerce site, meaning that brides could finally shop Danielle Frankel's coveted designs without a visit to the studio. The site houses a variety of stunning styles from impossibly chic separates to modern silhouettes to gowns with exquisite puff sleeves. Once you've secured your dream dress, complete your look with the brand's baroque pearl necklace or a pair of shoulder-grazing earrings.

    While we overall enjoyed the process of buying a dress from the brand's website, we wished we had a longer return window than just five days. If you want more flexibility, you can check out other retailers, like Net-a-Porter, to see if they have the style you're eyeing.

    Size Range: 0–12 | Shipping: 12–18 weeks | Returns: Within 5 days; $200 restocking free

    Watters Wedding Dresses

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    Although the majority of Watters's bridal gowns can only be purchased in-store, they also have a Ready to Ship shop featuring some of their most popular styles. Shop vintage-inspired tea-length dresses, gowns with plunging-V necklines, and styles with '70s-inspired bell sleeves. The selection is ideal for the non-traditional bride who wants to rock a mini dress or simply wants a few outfit changes. If you order your dress online, most items are ready to ship (hence, the name) so you can expect to receive your order fairly quickly. If you need to return the dress, make sure you refer to the brand's return policy.

    Size Range: 00–24, petite and tall available | Shipping: Free standard | Returns: Within 14 days

    Etsy Mila Bridal

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    Mila Bridal on Etsy brings a personal touch to every garment by making every design by hand. This seller offers a mix of bohemian, modern, and traditional styles at an affordable cost, with prices starting at around $300. From sleek and fitted mermaid silhouettes to princess ballgowns to minimalist silk dresses, Mila Bridal has something for every kind of bride.

    Plus, the store's wedding dresses are made according to your personal measurements and can be delivered worldwide. With average reviews of 4.8 stars or higher, Mila Bridal continues to satisfy brides-to-be and make them feel beautiful on their special day.

    Size Range: Custom | Shipping: Free | Returns: Inquire with seller

    Saks Fifth Avenue Bridal Dresses

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    Saks Fifth Avenue is known for its robust collection of designer clothing, shoes, and accessories. The tried-and-true department store is also a go-to destination for bridal attire, including some truly gorgeous wedding dresses. When you shop the collection, you'll find styles from Valentino, Danielle Frankel, Markarian, Giorgio Armani, Galvan, Alexia Maria, Sachin & Babi, and Zimmermann—to name just a few.

    Curated for the sophisticated shopper, the silhouettes range from sleek column gowns and wrap dresses to modern jumpsuits and tasteful mini dresses. Prices range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, and you can occasionally score a great sale.

    Size Range: 0–28 | Shipping: Free standard on $100+ | Returns: Within 30 days

    What to Look for When Shopping for a Wedding Dress Online

    Silhouette & Size

    • Silhouette & Size: Before you even begin browsing online, it's important to know your measurements and what silhouettes work best for your body type. Check with each brand's sizing guides, as each designer uses slightly different measurements. This will help eliminate a lot of trial and error and ensure that your wedding dress fits you perfectly. When compiling this list, we looked for sites that offer extensive size ranges, as well as special sizes and alterations for those that are petite, tall, or pregnant.
    • Fabrics: Since you're not viewing wedding dresses in person, it's also helpful to familiarize yourself with different types of fabrics, so that you can get a sense of how certain wedding dresses will fit and feel. Think about whether you want something smooth and silky like satin or charmeuse or a style that's more light and airy like chiffon or tulle. You also want to think about the season you are getting married, and what fabric best suits the weather and location. Fit for any season, the wedding dresses from Revolve are crafted from everything from timeless satin to floaty crepe.
    • Shipping & Returns Policy: One of the most important tips for buying a wedding dress online is to extensively review a retailer's shipping and return policy. "Make sure you read the retailer's fine print and are very clear on return policies and delivery dates as you'll want to make sure you receive everything on time," says Coleman. If a site has a flexible return policy, you might want to order your dress in a couple of sizes to ensure you find the ideal fit. Nordstrom is known for having one of the most generous return policies—you can usually take back most items at any time and get a full refund.

    FAQ

    • When should I buy my wedding dress?

      While there's no strict rule, Brides recommends you buy your wedding dress about nine months before your wedding. This ensures your dress has enough time to be made and delivered, and you can make any alterations needed. Once you have your dress picked out, you can then start to think about your hair, shoes, and other accessories.

    • How much should I pay for a wedding dress?

      A wedding dress can cost anywhere from less than a hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. If you're on a budget, our best advice is to set the price filters on a website to ensure you stay within your budget and use pictures of dresses that inspire you to find similar styles for less. You can find plenty of gown and dress options in your price range if you know where to look. For instance, sites like Lulus and Reformation have stylish wedding dresses under $1,000.

    • How can I tell from a website what a wedding dress will look and feel like in person?

      Sometimes it's hard to tell from the image online what the dress will really look like in person, so it's important to thoroughly read the product descriptions as well as familiarize yourself with the different types of fabrics. You'll need to be aware of what types of fabrics are stretchy or hold their shape or which ones are best suited for summer or winter weddings. Some sites let you order swatches beforehand, letting you see what the fabric looks and feels like.

    Why Trust Brides

    Contributing writerSophie Mooreis a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.

    For this article, the Brides team heavily researched and even tested popular online wedding gown retailers. We also spoke with a bridal fashion expert for their valuable insight and tips:

    • Ranu Coleman is the chief marketing officer ofAzazie. She has more than 10 years of experience in the fashion, beauty, and apparel industries.

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    FAQs

    What style of wedding dress is most flattering for plus-size? ›

    Ball Gown. This timeless wedding dress silhouette is extremely flattering on a plus-size bride for many reasons. The fitted bodice of a ball gown clenches at the waist, creating definition and balancing out proportions by accentuating the waistline while also concealing the hips and thighs under a full skirt.

    Is $1000 a lot for a wedding dress? ›

    One rule of thumb suggests that brides allocate ten percent of their total wedding budget to their wedding dress. So, if you're planning to spend $10,000 or less on your big day, wedding dresses under $1000 fit that budget quite nicely (and maybe even leaves you extra for the honeymoon!).

    Is $2000 enough for a wedding dress? ›

    According to The Knot Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding gown is $2,000. While, of course, off-the-rack gowns may be priced lower, more luxurious gowns can sometimes fall in the $3,000 to $8,000 range.

    Is it better to size up or down in wedding dress? ›

    Just based on the production process, sometimes dresses come a little bit bigger or even a little smaller than what was on that size selected on the size chart. So it's really best to err on the size of a bit bigger than smaller.

    How to lose belly fat for wedding dress? ›

    Eleven healthy tips that help brides lose weight faster before the wedding include:
    1. Consume fewer carbs. ...
    2. Increase protein intake. ...
    3. Incorporate fruits and vegetables in your diet. ...
    4. Avoid junk food. ...
    5. Don't skip breakfast. ...
    6. Don't starve. ...
    7. Increase fluid intake. ...
    8. Exercise.

    What style of dress is most slimming? ›

    In general, A-line dresses, empire waist dresses, and wrap dresses are the most flattering. And remember…you can always add a belt to create the shape you want!

    Who pays for the wedding dress? ›

    Who pays for the wedding dress? This ultimately falls to the bride and her family. They're also expected to cover the cost of the veil, accessories and the rest of the wedding wardrobe, including outfits for the shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner, and honeymoon.

    Is $20,000 too much for a wedding? ›

    What we found is that the median budget for those planning a wedding is $20,000. Of course, a lot of different factors go into budgeting for a wedding, including where you live, who will be contributing, how many people you plan to invite, et cetera.

    What is a realistic wedding dress budget? ›

    Buying a wedding dress between $1,000-2,000 means that you're in the average cost range, and anything over $2,500 means you're in the higher range, and less than 1,000 is definitely the lower end of the pricing scale.

    What is a fair wedding budget? ›

    In fact, The Knot 2023 Real Weddings Study found that the average cost of a wedding is $35,000 (excluding the engagement ring). If you've never hosted an event of comparable size before, the financial aspect might feel like a completely new world of terminology and rules.

    Is $5000 too much for a wedding dress? ›

    Taking nothing else into consideration, the basic budgeting "rule" is that no more than 5 percent of your wedding budget should go toward the cost of your dress and alterations. That means someone buying a $5,000 dress might be spending more than $100,000 to host a wedding! (Yikes!)

    Should a bride pay for her own dress? ›

    While this responsibility can vary from culture to culture, historically the bride's family will pay for her wedding dress and accessories.

    What is a size 14 wedding dress equivalent to? ›

    Bridal sizing isn't like typical street wear sizing. While you might be a size 4-6 in jeans, you're in fact a bridal size 8-10, and if you're a size 14-16, you're likely a 18-20. Don't worry about it–sizing is just a number! You'll likely see most of our samples in a bridal size 8, 10, 12, 18, 20 or 22 to try on.

    Should wedding guests wear their hair up or down? ›

    Can I wear my hair down to a wedding? You can definitely wear your hair down to a wedding – as long as your finished style looks smart and complements your outfit.

    Can I lose weight after buying my wedding dress? ›

    A dress can always be taken in, and you want to be sure you've got plenty of time to order a dress you love! If you're planning on losing anywhere from 10-20 lbs, your dress can easily be taken in during the alterations process to fit your post weight loss body.

    What kind of wedding dress is slimming? ›

    An A-line gown hugs the waist area, creating a slimmer waistline while flattering the bust,” he says. “It can make a petite bride look taller with its overall slimming effect.”

    How to dress to look thinner plus-size? ›

    Sport darker bootcut pants for a slenderizing look. Layer your outfits with a blazer that highlights your smaller waist. Minimize your hips with an A-line silhouette that enhances your waist. Ensure your tops and jackets hit either above or below the widest part of your hips.

    What style dress is best for big bust and belly? ›

    Wrap Dresses

    The cross-over front will pull you in at your waist, and wrap shapes often have a tie sash or knot to one side which cleverly draws attention away from your stomach. As well as being tummy-flattering, the deep v-neckline on a wrap dress will suit bigger busts or give smaller chests a boost too.

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