I will be the first to admit that I am an avid online shopper. Most of my Christmas gifts are purchased online and some of my family members’ birthday presents are purchased in the same manner. Internet shopping enables you to compare prices therefore guaranteeing you a great deal. However, when it comes to formal wear that is where I draw the line. I’m not saying this because I am a retailer. I’m saying this because purchasing formal wear is a completely different kind of shopping experience.
If you are buying a wedding gown it is IMPORTANT that you take your time and find that one gown you are looking for. A professional retailer can assist you in this process. There are also some risks that you are taking by purchasing items online:
- If you are buying a “designer” gown you just might be buying a knock-off. Knock-offs “look” like the designer gown but the purchase price is not cheaper because the designer label isn’t attached to it. It’s cheaper because costs have been cut in the material and workmanship of the gown. Keep this in mind when it’s time to get that online gown altered.
- What happens if you don’t like it? Can you return it and get your money back for another one? I doubt it. If you try on a gown in-store you will be able to see how it looks on you and make a determination of whether or not the gown is for you before making a purchase.
- Timing. How long does it take to get the dress? Will it arrive in time enough for your event? That’s a huge risk with an online retailer. A brick and mortar retailer can get a firm shipment date from their designer and know when it’s going to arrive. If there is any deviation in the ship date, the designer informs the retailer immediately. The retailer and designer have an on-going working relationship with their primary goal being your satisfaction.
- No two sizes are alike. Just because you wear a size 4 in your everyday clothes does not mean you are going to wear a size 4 in a wedding gown. Not only that, you may wear a 6 in one designer gown and then an 8 in another. Each designer has their own size chart so it’s important to know what size chart to apply for each gown.
I say all of this to say, “Don’t cheat yourself out of the experience”. Your wedding gown is one of the most important purchases you will ever make. Why leave it to chance?
