Franklin Dean
If you're looking for a unique, cost-effective, and timeless wedding dress, you may want to consider going vintage. Vintage wedding dresses are widely adored for their delicate laces, art deco beading, and heirloom-worthy charm. They can also provide you with the ultimate something old item to walk down the aisle in. Whether you're looking for a white gown or a colourful number, there are several online and in-store options to help you find your dream vintage wedding dress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online retailers | Etsy, eBay, Kleinfeld Bridal, Adored Vintage, Gossamer, June's Uniquely Yours, Decades, Miranda's Vintage Bridal |
| In-store retailers | June's Uniquely Yours, Miranda's Vintage Bridal, Shareen Mitchell, Madly Vintage |
| Style | Bohemian, Art Deco, antique, Edwardian, Victorian, 1920s, 1950s |
| Fabric | Cotton, silk, lace, rayon, tulle, organza, crystal, silk organza, chiffon, Italian silk |
| Colour | White, ivory, palest pink |
| Price | $38-$2,365 |
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What You'll Learn
Online vs in-store
There are pros and cons to both online and in-store shopping when it comes to vintage wedding dresses. Online, you have a vast array of options to choose from, and you can do it from the comfort of your own home. Websites like Etsy, eBay, and Stillwhite offer a wide range of vintage wedding dresses at various price points. However, one of the challenges of buying online is that you can't try the dress on before you buy it, and vintage dresses, in particular, may require alterations to fit you perfectly.
If you're buying online, it's important to get your measurements taken by a professional tailor first and then shop for dresses within those measurements. You can also ask the seller if they work with a tailor for alterations. It's worth noting that some vintage dresses may be delicate and unable to be altered, so be sure to ask the seller about this before purchasing.
Shopping in-store allows you to try on different styles and get a feel for what suits your body type and vision for your wedding day. You can find vintage wedding dresses at brick-and-mortar boutiques, as well as some bridal shops that specialise in vintage gowns. In-store shopping also gives you the opportunity to inspect the dress's condition and quality, which can be challenging to assess from online photos alone.
Whether you choose to shop online or in-store, buying a vintage wedding dress is a unique and cost-effective option that ensures you'll have a one-of-a-kind look on your big day.
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Etsy, Ebay, and other online marketplaces
When shopping on Etsy or eBay, it's essential to consider certain factors. For instance, if you're looking for a dress that's over 100 years old, it might be better to opt for cotton rather than silk, as cotton tends to hold up better over time. Additionally, ensure you have accurate measurements, including your bicep size, as vintage dresses often have very tight upper arms.
Another online marketplace to consider is Stillwhite, which is the largest global marketplace for preowned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses, with over 97,000 gowns available. Stillwhite offers a safe platform to connect with sellers and browse through various designers, such as Maggie Sottero, Pronovias, and Alfred Angelo.
For those seeking a more romantic, vintage style, June's Uniquely Yours, a family-owned boutique in Cape May, New Jersey, specializes in Victorian and Edwardian-era gowns and accessories. With prices ranging from $38 to $1,098, this boutique offers a cost-effective way to find your dream vintage wedding ensemble.
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Local vintage shops
If you're looking for a vintage wedding dress in a physical store, there are several options to consider. Firstly, it's worth checking out local vintage shops in your area. These stores might not specifically cater to bridal wear, but they may have some hidden gems. You can also ask the owners if they can keep an eye out for vintage wedding dresses at estate sales.
Another option is to visit a vintage bridal boutique. These boutiques specialise in wedding dresses and often offer a range of vintage styles. For example, Vionnette in Atlanta and Cha Cha Linda in Brooklyn are vintage bridal boutiques that offer unique, one-of-a-kind dresses. If you're based in or near Chicago, there is a bridal boutique with a collection of vintage wedding gowns, veils, and shoes from the '20s to the '80s. June's Uniquely Yours in Cape May, New Jersey, is a family-owned vintage boutique specialising in romantic styles from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, with gowns from the 1800s to the 2000s.
When shopping for a vintage wedding dress, it's important to keep sizing in mind. Vintage sizing differs from modern sizing and was not standardised, so it's a good idea to get your measurements taken by a tailor before trying on dresses. This will ensure that you're searching for a dress that truly fits you, and a good vintage dealer will be able to help you find something in your size.
Happy hunting!
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Bridal boutiques
In-Store Boutiques
Vintage bridal boutiques offer a curated selection of unique gowns, often featuring renowned designers. Many boutiques offer custom fittings and styling services to help you create your dream vintage look. Here are some notable bridal boutiques to consider:
- One of a Kind in London is praised for its collection of colourful and experimental pieces, including Galliano for Dior and Tom Ford for Gucci.
- Jane Bourvis in London creates custom-made dresses with magical Victorian and Edwardian lace.
- Mon Vintage in Paris specialises in late '90s and early 2000s designer pieces, including Balenciaga, McQueen, and Mugler.
- Vionnette in Atlanta offers a range of vintage wedding gowns, including pieces from the 1970s to the 1990s.
- Aralda Vintage in Los Angeles, featured in the TV series Euphoria, is another excellent choice for unique vintage gowns.
- Happy Isles in Los Angeles, run by Lily Kaizer, offers vintage designer gowns from the 1950s to the 1990s, including Valentino and Oscar de la Renta.
- June's Uniquely Yours in Cape May, New Jersey, specialises in romantic styles from the Victorian and Edwardian eras, along with accessories.
- Tab Vintage in Los Angeles offers a unique collection of archival designer items, including vintage Jean Paul Gaultier, Versace, Valentino, and Dior.
- Cha Cha Linda in Brooklyn caters to vintage bridal shoppers, with a focus on aesthetics from the 1940s to the 1970s.
- Miranda's Vintage Bridal in Cleveland, Ohio, specialises in custom alterations, sizing vintage dresses up or down to fit your unique measurements.
Online Boutiques
If you prefer online shopping, there are also several virtual boutiques and platforms dedicated to vintage wedding dresses:
- Etsy has an entire section dedicated to vintage wedding gowns, including shops like Mirandasbridal.
- TheRealReal is an upscale resale platform offering authenticated pre-owned designer apparel, including exclusive vintage bridal gowns.
- Art Garments is an Australian-based boutique with a wide range of vintage bridal options and worldwide delivery.
- Gossamer is an online vintage shop with pop-ups across the US, offering whimsical and sustainable vintage finds.
- Cream & Ivory is an online boutique providing affordable vintage bridal and wedding attire.
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Accessories
Jewellery
Vintage-inspired jewellery can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your overall look. Consider delicate pieces with a hint of sparkle, such as a pair of drop earrings or a simple necklace with a pendant. Brooches and hair accessories, such as a vintage-style hair comb or a headband, can also enhance your bridal hairstyle.
Shoes
When choosing shoes to go with your vintage wedding dress, consider a pair of elegant heels or flats in a style that complements the era of your dress. For example, if you've chosen a 1920s-style gown, a pair of art-deco-inspired heels could be a perfect match. If you're going for a more bohemian look, you might opt for a pair of vintage-style ankle boots or sandals.
Veil or Headpiece
A veil can be a beautiful addition to your vintage wedding ensemble. Consider a simple, elegant veil that falls just past your shoulders or opt for a longer, more dramatic cathedral-length veil. If a veil isn't your style, there are other headpiece options, such as a vintage-inspired headband or a birdcage veil.
Other Accessories
Don't forget about the smaller details that can tie your look together. A pair of vintage-style gloves can add a touch of elegance, especially if you're going for a more formal look. A belt or sash can also be a lovely way to accentuate your waist and add a bit of sparkle or colour to your dress.
Shopping for Accessories
When shopping for vintage wedding dress accessories, consider both online and offline options. Etsy is a great online resource for vintage-inspired pieces, and you can also find many boutique shops, like June's Uniquely Yours, that offer a range of accessories from different eras. Don't be afraid to reach out to local vintage shops and ask if they can keep an eye out for specific pieces at estate sales or other vintage markets.
Remember, when accessorizing your vintage wedding dress, choose pieces that reflect your personal style and complement the unique details of your dress.
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Frequently asked questions
Vintage wedding dresses are a great way to find a unique, cost-effective, and timeless style. You can also find a wide range of designs, from bohemian-infused '70s dresses to 1930s gowns reminiscent of the Art Deco era.
Etsy is a great place to start your search for vintage wedding dresses, with an entire section dedicated to vintage gowns for sale. You can also try Kleinfeld Bridal, which offers a selection of vintage-inspired wedding gowns and accessories. Other online options include Gossamer, Adored Vintage, and Madly Vintage.
If you're looking for a physical store to buy a vintage wedding dress, you can try Miranda's Vintage Bridal, which has a location in Cleveland, OH. June's Uniquely Yours in Cape May, New Jersey, specializes in romantic styles from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. You can also try local vintage boutiques or bridal shops, which may have some hidden gems.
It's important to know your exact measurements when buying a vintage wedding dress online, as sizing may vary from modern dresses. Consider the fabric as well; for example, cotton vintage dresses tend to hold up better than silk ones.
To complete your vintage-inspired bridal look, consider adding accessories such as a bird-cage veil, heirloom-worthy headpieces, antique-inspired jewelry, shoes, and belts. You can also opt for design details that nod to your chosen decade, such as modest necklines, traditional laces, and intricate embroidery.
