3 Tips For Shopping Bridal Sample Sales
Looking to find your dream wedding dress and considering the option of sample sales? We've got you covered with everything you need to know before visiting your local bridal sample sale.
Sample sales can be an incredible opportunity to find your dream dress at a fraction of the cost, however, there are a few things to consider, including your timeline, some possible unexpected costs to budget for and how you can spot the best finds!
Give Yourself Lots of Time
Sample sales are often an alternative for brides who are on a tight schedule leading up to the big day, however, you still need some time on your side.
Although sample gowns may be a time-friendly option, you should plan to purchase your gown a good 2 -3 months before the wedding. This timeline can change based on the gown's condition. Most sample gowns are sold in their ‘current condition’. You may find gowns that have a little yellowing, minor make-up stains, mild odour or maybe overall dull appearance. These handling and aged stains may be present as these gowns have often been tried on by clients or used in window displays, exposing them to sunlight and its effects. Due to these possible conditions, sample gowns are often heavily discounted and are a great budget & time saver.
When purchasing sample gowns that may require cleaning, we advise setting some time aside with the understanding that some cleaning, altering and finishing may be required. This extra TLC will make that gorgeous gown pop!
Budget For Cleaning Costs
Sample sales are incredible, as they provide clients of all kinds with options that work for them! You can truly find incredible gowns at incredible prices.
When budgeting for your gown, we highly encourage you to leave some room for possible cleaning costs. As mentioned above, some gowns require a little TLC and you want to make sure you account for this sometimes forgotten cost.
Cleaning costs will depend on your location, however we recommend setting aside anywhere from $200-700, to be safe. We also recommend calling around to your local cleaners to get a better idea of pricing in your area.
If you’re a client in Toronto looking to have your wedding dress cleaned, you can book a complimentary consultation with us today!
Assess the Dress and Set Realistic Expectations
Since we’re talking about cleaning, we should give some tips for assessing a sample sale gown and setting realistic expectations for how this gown will look on the big day.
Here are our tips for assessing sample gowns for stains & conditions:
Surface Stains vs Embedded Stains: marks that look like make-up, dirt or debris can usually be categorized as surface stains or conditions. These kinds of stains are typically easier to remove as they have not fully penetrated the fibers. Please note there is no such thing as making the gown “new again” from a stain perspective, however many dry cleaners can get pretty darn close
Check for Yellowing: Yellowing is often visible in areas like the underarms, near the back closure, inner bodice or even on embellishments like sequins and gems. This yellowing is caused by oxidation and can be very challenging to remove. In the case of embellishments, it is often irreversible.
Notice the Colour: Some sample gowns are worn in fittings, used for displays or simply hung in store for a period of time. This can lead to an overall shift in colour,. There are over 50 shades of bridal “white”. When you take this into account, along with the changing nature of fabric over time, gowns can appear one shade in the showroom and another after cleaning. Clients are sometimes surprised to see their gown turn out ‘brighter & whiter’ after cleaning. This is because the gown had become more dull over time and is now clean, revealing its true colour.
As always, if you have specific questions regarding sample sales, we encourage you to contact the bridal boutique or retailer you’re interested in and speak with a member of their team.
Live in Toronto or the GTA & have a wedding dress that requires cleaning? We’ve got you covered! Book your complimentary consultation or contact us for more information today!