Elopement Dresses: Buying Comparison & Tips
Choosing a wedding or elopement dress can be a daunting and exciting experience for any bride. Luckily, I’m here with brand comparisons, recommendations, and tips to help you find and choose the elopement dress that’s right for you. Let’s start by going over where to buy elopement dresses, what to look for in an elopement dress, what your affordable options are - and more!
Where to Buy Elopement Dresses
Online Stores:
When finding the perfect wedding or elopement dress, online stores are the most popular choice for brides. However, the World Wide Web is a big place, and it can be difficult to find the right websites, brands, and designers to match you. Let’s go over some of your options.
Etsy
Etsy is an online marketplace specializing in handmade, vintage, and craft supplies sold directly by creators. It's known for supporting small businesses and independent artists, with a diverse selection of products including clothing, jewelry, and home decor. Because Etsy is not limited by location, you can easily find dress options from around the world and can work with designers directly to customize your dress to your needs.
However, because anyone is allowed to sell on Etsy, it unfortunately opens the door to scam artists as well. When browsing, be sure to research the creator of all potential dress options. You’ll want to check for things like:
Customer reviews
Number of official sales
Response rate
Age of their shop
Using a platform like Etsy can expose you to a variety of local and national designers who are ready to work with you to make your wedding dress perfect, but it’s important to do your own research before making any final purchases.
David’s Bridal
David’s Bridal is a well-known name in the wedding and elopement industries. It caters to brides of all budgets and requirements, offering affordable pricing and fast, convenient online shopping and scheduling.
David's Bridal has all of its dress options available online with buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) options and made-to-order customizations. Once you have selected the dress or dresses you like, you can schedule a free fitting appointment by phone or email at your nearest store-front location. When you arrive at your appointment, your dresses will be waiting for you to try on. You can note any alterations needed, and then receive your dress a few weeks later.
While most customers have a positive experience with David's Bridal, some brides have reported delayed shipping and unsatisfactory in-person help. Regardless, David’s Bridal remains a solid choice for brides everywhere.
If you decide to go with a different dress retailer, maybe you can make use of David’s new wedding planning services that have become quite popular in recent years.
Azazie
Very similar to David’s Bridal, Azazie is an online dress and wedding retailer with a wide variety of sizes, colors, and options. Unlike David's Bridal, Azazie does not require you to schedule an appointment to visit a physical store. Instead, you can choose up to three dresses online, and they will be shipped to your doorstep. You can try on the dresses in the comfort of your own home, exchange/alter them if necessary, and then have the final gown shipped to you.
The majority of Azazie's customers have a positive experience and many report fast shipping, low costs, and custom sizing options. However, there have been a few cases where customers received a low-quality product or incorrect sizing upon arrival.
Asos
Asos is an online-only retailer that is similar to Azazie. However, instead of trying on different dresses before making a final purchase, Asos sells you the dress and then offers free returns if alterations or a different size is needed.
While Asos has a high-quality inventory with a price tag to reflect that, brides commonly report issues with customer service and late delivery times.
Lulu’s
Lulus is a California-based e-commerce company that specializes in women's clothing, shoes, and accessories. It was founded in 1996 by a mother-daughter duo and caters to teenage and millennial women who enjoy chic and affordable trends.
It's easy and convenient to purchase a wedding dress from Lulus. You can explore their online catalog of bridal gowns and wedding dresses that come in various sizes, colors, and styles.
When you’ve found the perfect dress, you can check out by card or Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) options. Lulus offers free standard shipping within the US for orders over $50. Moreover, if you are not satisfied with your purchase, you can return the item for free within 10 days of delivery using the return label provided in your packaging.
Brides report having a positive overall experience using Lulus to find their wedding and elopement dresses.
Anthropologie
Anthropologie is an e-commerce store that sells women's clothing, jewelry, furniture, beauty products, and gifts, targeting creative women who value personal expression and a curated shopping experience.
Ordering a wedding dress from Anthropologie is very competitive to Lulu’s, offering free shipping over $50, BNPL options, and returns within 30 days for a full refund. Unfortunately, bridal gowns and wedding dresses are subject to a restocking fee and cannot be returned to physical storefronts.
Your Local Bridal Boutiques
Grace Loves Lace
Grace Loves Lace is an e-commerce company that specializes in ethically produced and handmade wedding dresses and accessories. Founded by Megan Ziems in 2011, she sought to create unique, luxurious, and comfortable bridal gowns that are known for their signature European lace, ranging in all styles, colors, and sizes. Grace Loves Lace is based in Australia but has showrooms in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. They also offer virtual appointments for brides who prefer to shop online.
BHLDN
BHLDN is an e-commerce fashion company that specializes in wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, bridal accessories, and wedding décor. It is a sister brand of Anthropologie and was launched by Anthropologie’s president, Glen Senk, in 2011 to create a wedding brand that reflected the aesthetics and values of Anthropologie. BHLDN offers a personalized shopping experience for brides, with curated collections of classic, boho, modern, and vintage-inspired styles. Clients can book appointments at local showrooms in several cities across the US, where they can try on dresses with the help of stylists or they can browse their website with ease.
a&bé Bridal Shop
A&bé Bridal Shop is an online fashion company that specializes in modern, romantic, and unique wedding dresses and accessories. The company is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, and has showrooms in nine other cities across the US, including Austin, Boise, Dallas, Minneapolis, Portland, Raleigh, Seattle, Sacramento, and Bellevue. In addition to showroom appointments, a&bé Bridal Shop also offers virtual appointments, online shopping, free shipping on orders over $1000, and free returns within 14 days of delivery.
Rue De Seine
Rue De Seine is an ethical fashion e-commerce company specializing in handmade wedding dresses and accessories. Founded in 2011 by Megan Ziems, the brand aims to create unique, luxurious, and comfortable bridal gowns. Though based in Australia, Rue De Seine has showrooms in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, and offers virtual appointments.
We are Reclamation
We are Reclamation is a fashion e-commerce company specializing in handmade and ethically-produced wedding dresses and accessories made from vintage and modern lace. They are based in Victoria, Canada, but offer worldwide shipping.
Dreamers and Lovers
Dreamers and Lovers is a fashion e-commerce company that focuses on bohemian lace wedding dresses and accessories. The company's use of soft and comforting cotton laces ensures that brides are as comfortable as they are beautiful on their special day. Dreamers and Lovers is based in the coastal city of Venice, California, and offers worldwide shipping, bringing their dresses to brides all around the world.
Daci Gowns
Daci Gowns is an ethical, Idaho-based fashion e-commerce company that sells handmade wedding dresses and accessories that focus on luxury and comfort. With a commitment to sustainability and ethics, Daci Gowns offers a unique and personalized bridal experience that reflects personal values.
Teuta Matoshi
Teuta Matoshi is a whimsical-style e-commerce company that produces ethical wedding dresses and accessories. The company is renowned for its high-end gowns inspired by nature, fairy tales, and art. To achieve the intricate floral embroidery, sequins, tulle, and exotic accessories that adorn their pieces, Teuta Matoshi uses European laces and silks. Each item in their collection is a unique work of art that adds a touch of ethereal charm for brides looking for this style. You can explore their online catalog or schedule an appointment at their showroom to view their stunning collections.
Monique Lhuillier
Monique Lhuillier, is a renowned fashion designer known for her bridal and lifestyle brand. She founded her eponymous label in 1996 and currently operates fashion houses in Los Angeles, California. She is one of America’s preeminent designers and has dressed numerous celebrities, such as Reese Witherspoon, Michelle Obama, Emma Stone, and Jennifer Lopez.
Monique Lhuillier’s style is known for its femininity, elegance, and sophistication. You can shop online or visit one of her flagship stores to explore her available collections.
All Who Wander
All Who Wander is a boho wedding dress label that offers a collection of bohemian gowns designed to celebrate the adventurous and romantic spirit of brides. It is a sister brand to Essense of Australia, Stella York, and Martina Liana, and was created by award-winning bridal designer Martine Harris. All Who Wander features a variety of styles, colors, and sizes, as well as vintage-inspired laces, whimsical floral patterns, and rustic fringe details.
What to Look For in an Elopement Dress
Comfort
Comfort in a wedding dress will directly affect your ability to fully appreciate and engage in your wedding day. With a comfortable dress, you can move freely, participate in activities, and enjoy the day without distraction or discomfort. Feeling at ease enhances your confidence, allowing you to focus on the joy of the moment and create cherished memories of your special day.
Loose Skirt
A looser skirt allows for natural movement, better air circulation, and reduced heat. It minimizes fabric friction, prevents irritation, and offers easier sitting, adapting well to various activities. With improved flexibility, a looser skirt ensures you can navigate your wedding day effortlessly, enhancing overall comfort and allowing you to fully enjoy your special occasion.
Appropriate Type of Fabric
Whether you’re traveling to an exotic destination, or you’ve chosen a cozy venue close to home, prioritizing comfort is necessary. Consider natural fabrics such as cotton, silk, and chiffon.
Materials Less Likely to Wrinkle
Certain materials are less prone to wrinkling, making them ideal choices for a wedding dress if you want to maintain a polished look throughout the day. Fabrics like:
Silk
Lace
Crepe
Satin
Tulle
Are all less likely to wrinkle compared to lightweight cotton or linen. Additionally, blends that incorporate synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon tend to resist wrinkles better than natural fibers alone.
Aspects that Compliment Your Elopement Location
Selecting a wedding dress that complements your elopement location is essential to enhancing the overall aesthetic and creating a cohesive atmosphere. A dress that matches the environment improves the visual harmony of your photos and also respects the ambiance of the location, ensuring that you and your dress complement the surroundings. Ultimately, a well-matched dress adds to the beauty and authenticity of your elopement experience, making it an even more memorable day.
Affordable Elopement Dress Options
Buy Pre-Owned:
StillWhite
Once Wed
Nearly Newlywed
Poshmark
Pre-Owned Wedding Dresses
Rent your Dress:
Rent the Runway
Poshare
The Dress Outlet
Dare & Dazzle
Attend Sample Sales
Bridal boutiques or designers often hold sample sales for wedding dresses where they offer their sample dresses at significantly discounted prices. Sample dresses are the ones that brides try on in-store before placing an order for their preferred size and color.
Visit Sites with Wedding Dresses Under $500:
David’s Bridal
Azazie
Lulu’s
Cocomelody
ASOS
Amazon
JJ’s House
Reformation
Best Types of Elopement Dresses:
A-Line
An A-line wedding dress is a popular choice for elopements due to its universally flattering silhouette and versatility. Fitted at the chest and gently flaring out from the waist, it complements various body types and allows for comfortable movement. A-line dresses are timeless, ensuring that the bride looks elegant and sophisticated in any setting, and can be customized with different fabrics and embellishments.
Sheath
A sheath is sleek and form-fitting that creates an elegant and sophisticated look, allowing the bride to exude confidence and grace. Sheath dresses are often made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as chiffon or crepe, ensuring comfort, especially during outdoor or warm-weather elopements. The simplicity of the sheath style makes it versatile and suitable for various elopement settings, from beach ceremonies to intimate garden gatherings.
Separates
Separate wedding dresses, featuring a separate top and skirt, are gaining popularity among eloping brides for several reasons. Firstly, separates offer a high degree of customization. Brides can mix and match different tops and skirts, creating a unique and personalized ensemble that perfectly suits their style and the elopement's theme. Secondly, separates provide comfort and ease of movement. The separate pieces typically allow for more flexibility, making it easier to navigate different terrains or engage in various activities. This flexibility and personalization make separates an excellent choice for brides seeking comfort, style, and adaptability for their elopement day.
Jumpsuits
Jumpsuits offer unparalleled comfort and ease of movement. They provide the freedom to walk, climb, and explore various terrains, making them ideal for outdoor or adventurous elopements. They’re also incredibly versatile and chic, often boasting modern and trendy designs. They can effortlessly blend casual elegance with a touch of sophistication, allowing brides to look stylish and feel comfortable at the same time. Jumpsuits also eliminate the worry of skirt or dress hems getting dirty, making them practical for outdoor or nature-based elopements.
Elopement Dress Ideas:
Long Sleeve Elopement Dresses:
Dante by Madi Lane: $1900
Martina Liana 1497: $2200
Midi Elopement Dresses:
Brooklyn: $799
Short Elopement Dresses:
Colored Elopement Dresses:
Melon Oasis Draped Gown: $1169
June Impact Dress: $248
Patterned Elopement Dresses:
Vesta Dragonfly: $957
Willow: $2250
Tips for Choosing Elopement Dresses for Each Season
Fall
Choosing a wedding dress for fall allows for a blend of seasonal styles and comfort. Consider fabrics like lace, satin, or tulle, which are suitable for the moderate fall weather. Dresses with long sleeves or illusion lace can add an elegant touch while providing some warmth to approaching cold weather.
Winter
Choosing a wedding dress for a winter ceremony requires a balance between style and warmth. Opt for heavier fabrics like satin and velvet and consider long sleeves or high necklines for extra coverage against the cold. Layer with accessories such as faux fur stoles or bolero jackets to add warmth without compromising your dress. Think about the length, opting for full-length gowns for additional protection.
Summer & Spring
Choosing a wedding dress for spring and summer weddings allows for lighter, breathable fabrics and airy designs. Opt for lightweight materials like chiffon, organza, or lightweight lace, which are perfect for warm weather. Consider dresses with spaghetti straps, off-the-shoulder styles, or even stylish halter necklines for a breezy and romantic look. A-line or sheath silhouettes work well for these seasons, allowing for comfort and ease of movement.
Choosing an elopement dress is a personal experience that reflects the individual style of the bride and the unique love of the couple. From online marketplaces like Etsy and Asos, to established brands and famous designers such as David's Bridal, Grace Loves Lace, and Rue De Seine, brides have a plethora of options to choose from. With considerations like comfort, fabrics, and even season influencing choices, brides also have a lot of things to decide on. So remember, take it easy on yourself and make it a fun and enjoyable experience.
Ready to Plan Your Elopement?
There are so many options when it comes to choosing your elopement dress. Thankfully, I have experience helping brides along the way, from getting started to sealing the day with pictures to treasure and look back on forever. Contact me today and let’s get started on your elopement journey!
