Something New: Buying Off-The-Rack vs. Special Order
Photo by Kirsten Jane Photography
Every bride has a dream of finding the perfect wedding dress, but with so many options, navigating the process can feel overwhelming. One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to buy a dress “off-the-rack” or special order your gown. Here at Bon Bon Belle, we want to help you understand the details of each option to help you find the gown that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and stunning on your special day.
OFF-THE-RACK
There’s a certain magic to finding a dress that takes your breath away as soon as you try it on at your bridal appointment. Off-the-rack dresses, also known as “sample” gowns, are in-store dresses available in a variety of sizes and styles. Here are some of the benefits:
- Instant Gratification: Found the one? You can take it home that same day! No waiting months for your dress to arrive.
- Budget-Friendly: Off-the-rack dresses are often priced lower than special order gowns, making them a great option for brides on a tighter budget. The biggest plus? Many of the sample gowns kept in-store are in pristine condition, allowing you to practically have a new gown when buying off-the-rack.
- Variety of Gowns: Bon Bon Belle carries a wide selection of off-the-rack styles, allowing you to try on different silhouettes and styles to discover what you love the most.
SPECIAL ORDER
For brides who have a specific vision in mind, a special order dress might be the perfect choice. These gowns are made-to-order based on your measurements and design preferences. Here’s what you can expect:
- Perfect Fit: A special order dress allows your measurements to be added to the order, eliminating the need for extensive alterations.
- Customization: Want to change your favorite gown’s color underlay? With a special order, you can personalize the dress to create a truly unique look.
- Time Investment: The wait time for a special order dress can range from 4-8 months, so planning ahead is crucial.
What option is right for me?
At Bon Bon Belle, we offer a curated selection of both off-the-rack and special order wedding dresses. Our experienced stylists will work with you to understand your vision, budget, and timeline to help you find the dress of your dreams.
Here are some additional tips:
- Be open-minded! Sometimes your dream dress might surprise you! Trying on a variety of styles, even off-the-rack options, can spark inspiration and lead you to find the one.
- Consider alterations. Off-the-rack dresses can often be altered to achieve a more customized fit.
- Communicate clearly. If you’re considering a special order gown, discuss all your customization desires with your stylist to ensure your vision comes to life.
No matter which path you choose, Bon Bon Belle is here to make your wedding dress journey unforgettable. Schedule your appointment today and let us help you find the perfect gown to walk down the aisle in!
