David’s Bridal and Alfred Angelo are some of the biggest wedding dress chain stores out there. They have a large range of sizes, styles, and price points. But there are other options! I explored five alternatives to see how they measured up to the competition.
J.Crew:
J.Crew is known for its classic approach to clothing. The J.Crew wedding collection is equally as simple and elegant.
Price: Gowns range from $295-$1,800
Sizes: 00-16
Customer Service: To try dresses on in store you have to travel to one of their three locations in Chicago, Washington, D.C., or New York. However you are able to order dresses online and try them on in the comfort of your home. Wedding specialist are available in the stores listed above, through email, or by phone.
Bonus: They have beautiful hair accessories
ModCloth:
ModCloth offers unique dresses from independent designers at affordable prices. What’s not to love about that? They also have amazing shoes to choose from.
Price: Gowns range from $40-$415
Sizes: depends on the dress, some only go up to size 12, others up to size 26
Customer Service: Helpful customer reviews and free exchanges
Call or live chat with stylist or customer service specialist
Bonus: Great shoes, often with a retro twist
BHLDN:
Anthropologie’s wedding collection is inspired by vintage wedding dresses. Probably my favorite out of the five because of the quality, style, and customer service they offer if you can get to one of their store locations.
Price: Gowns range from $220-$2900+
Sizes: 00-14
Customer Service: 8 locations around the country, or order online. Note that they do not provide alterations.
Bonus: Beautiful shoes and jewelry
Tradesy:
A website to buy or sell gently worn designer clothing and accessories online.
Price: Gowns range from $100+
Sizes: 00-12, plus, and petite
Customer Service: phone or email day or night. They only accept designer fashion pieces and send free shipping kits and handle returns
Bonus: Biggest variety in terms of style and price because the dresses are used
Adored Vintage:
Online retailer of vintage clothing, accessories, and decor.
Price: $168-$500+
Sizes: Harder to pinpoint since dresses are vintage. The site posts specific measurements (bust, waist, etc.) for each dress. Vintage conversion and sizing charts available for reference.
Customer Service: Available through email, but all sales are considered FINAL unless the dress is damaged
Bonus: List type of fabric, condition, and type of closure (zipper, clasp, etc.) for each dress
Unconventional Bride 