Online dress shopping

Honestly, I don't think an hour is too far to drive. It would be definitely worth it. I don't have experience shopping online but it seems some brides have good experiences with it. And for example Azazi and cocomelody, I think, have try-at-home-offers where you can order a few sample dresses in your size before you commit. If you decide to take the online-route definitely make sure to read the return policy carefully.

But before you order online I would definitely advise a visit to at least one or two bridal shops in person to find out what style fits you well and what to look for when you order online. There are a lot of brides who find a dress that they absolutely love that is different from what they originally thought. Some also find that what they loved online doesn't look good at them. I think ordering online withoug ever having tried on dresses at a boutique would be difficult. So, I would definitely recommend that. Also, keep in mind that usually your dress will need to be altered by someone specialised in bridal gowns.

Good luck and lots of fun finding your dress.

I think it would be nice to try on gowns first just to know what styles look good on you or what you actually like on yourself.
When buying online definitely look for return policies

Azazie and Kennedy Blue both have online try on options for $10 each.

I don't think an hour is too far away

I shopped and found my dress online. I ordered 4 different ones and returned the 3 that didn't make the cut, no problem. Check return policies and you'll be fine.

View Quoted Comment Hi Claudia! Thank you. What online stores did you order from? Did you order from all different ones?

View Quoted Comment I ordered one from Windsor, two from DressAfford and one from BHLDN. Ultimately ended up with one from DressAfford. Bonus, all had sales at the time and offered free shipping and returns, so it made the process easier.

Definitely do the in person trials first. I didn't go shpping in person to avoid the sadness of having to go alone but now I regret it. My dress is huge on me and the return policy was cut and dry, so I'm SOL. I have MAJOR dress regret and now I'm stuck looking for a seamstress that feels comfortable enough to make alterations to it. Online can go well but always try in person if doable.

View Quoted Comment Aw, that’s great advice. Thank you! I’m actually thinking to go by myself. However, I’m going to force myself to take fiancé mother and sister in law.


I’m sorry for your experience. I hope all goes well for you.

An hour seems reasonable. At least to find out what silhouettes and fabrics you like. After many failed attempts to find a dress in store, I ended up buying one online from Stillwhite.