Here Comes The Guide's Blog

Encore Bridal Does It Again…(And Again)

Did you see the article in the New York Times about pre-owned wedding dresses? I wouldn’t have either, if it wasn’t for my colleague Jennifer who forwarded the link to me. Anyway, the upshot is that while it’s still “all about the dress,” many brides are watching their budget and shopping for gently used or bought-but-never-used wedding gowns. Not only does this save money, but eco-conscious brides are doing their part in the “reuse, recycle…” mantra.

Since shopping online has its risks, we were excited to see that the article featured one of our recommended bridal salon partners, the very reputable Encore Bridal:

“Encore Bridal is an upscale resale and consignment bridal e-boutique where brides can find new, sample and ‘recycled couture’ gowns, discounted 30 to 60 percent off retail prices. They can buy online or at a private styling session in the Los Angeles area.

To be sold on their site, dresses must be less than three years old, said the owner, Julie Jones, who rejects 90 percent of the used gowns she is offered. (No ’80s gowns with poufy sleeves or out-of-style silhouettes.) ‘We cater to the bride who says, “My budget is $1,500 but I’m really attracted to gowns in the $3,000 to $5,000 range.” They’re looking for ways to get a dream dress that fits in their budget. This way they can have it all.’” (New York Times, January 31, 2009)

After your wedding, instead of sticking that lace and silk confection in the back of your closet, you can continue the recycling tradition and donate your gown to a worthwhile charity, like Brides Against Breast Cancer/Making Memories Foundation or DonateMyDress.org, a national network listing local dress drive donations.