I hope all of you enjoyed an afternoon of recovery gluttony yesterday after staying out extra late on NYE. My day included nonstop SATC reruns, one gooey cheese pizza and two thick issues of Modern Bride magazine (one to read, one to steady my mimosa.)
Maybe it was my lack of hand eye coordination, but usually I flip right through the pages and pages of advertisements that fill bridal magazines. Instead, I found myself gazing at several stunning gowns from, surprisingly, David’s Bridal. They’ve really stepped it up for 2008 with designer dress collection from Galina, Oleg Cassini and Monique Luo. The details are dead on and the prices are even more scandalous. I’ve paired the DB dresses up against big time labels just for fun. Can you tell which is which?
From top, Allover beaded lace mermaid with scalloped sweetheart neckline by Monique Lou; $1000. Middle, Satin strapless ball gown with pick-up detailing on skirt and sash at waist; $180. Bottom, Strapless beaded lace bodice with scallop edge and voluminous organza skirt with pick-up detail and chapel train by Oleg Cassini; $1,000.
Wendy
January 2, 2008 at 8:52 PM
Don’t be deceived by the photography- these dresses are NOT the same as designer dresses- at any price point. David’s Bridal is a manufacturer, not a bridal salon! Their dresses are poorly made overseas and their customer service is atrocious!!! Also, you may save on the dress, but look out for the alterations!! Everyone has to make their money somewhere. As a bit of an expert on bridal dresses and the indursty, you can take my word!!
perfect bound
January 3, 2008 at 1:54 AM
Hey Wendy, You make a good point. I’m hardly an expert, just checking out their styles. As a two times bridesmaid, I have spent many loong Saturday afternoons in David’s Bridal. They do thier best but yes, it’s mostly chaos!
Enjoy Celebrations and Occasions
January 3, 2008 at 2:30 AM
My advice is always the same, go check it out in person. The truth of the matter is that not everyone can afford a $3000+ gown. What I have found in selling dresses for as many years as I have is that every girl finds beauty in something different. I cannot tell you how many David’s Bridal gowns looked fabulous when paired with high end accessories such as jewelry and veils.
sarah
January 3, 2008 at 7:29 AM
while i definitely can’t speak for the quality, i’ve noticed the same thing in style! david’s bridal is definitely turning out some nicer looking gowns!
i kind of think of maggie sottero as a few steps up from DB – loads of different styles and typically affordable. well, more affordable than high-end designer gowns ;o)
Wendy
January 3, 2008 at 1:50 PM
All of your comments have merit and I especially agree with the Maggie Sottero comment. Those dresses are a great value, but allow enough time to order one! they come from Australia and the company has very strict shipping rules! Look, everyone copies the couture gowns- and they copy each other! But, you get what you pay for and your wedding day is too important to go bargain shopping!
amber
January 3, 2008 at 4:33 PM
I can’t tell the difference, but that silky grey tone one with the buttons down the back and floppy bow is heaven!!
amber
February 8, 2008 at 7:14 PM
I just bought the David’s Bridal Monique Luo gown on the right. Although David’s Bridal is busy, my experience with them has still been friendly. I received my dress in less than 2 weeks. It arrived in PERFECT condition. The beads and lace were intact. I didn’t try many dresses on at DB’s. Many there do look cheap. I cannot afford a designer gown, but DB’s couture collection gown worked out for me. My dress was also another $200 off, so I got it for $800.