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Where to find your dream wedding dress.
Whenever someone shares news they’re getting married, the inevitable question follows: “Have you found a dress yet?” Whether you’ve been imagining your dream dress since the first time you watched Princess Bride, or if you’re just now realizing that you need to find something to wear for your big day, we’ve got you covered. From traditional to alternative styles, these six bridal boutiques carry some of the most beautiful collections in the city. (Photo: Lauren Kurc.)
This Gastown gem is perfect for the bride that’s looking for an alternative style. Trading in full skirts for more form-fitting designs, this boutique features a number of flowy, sheath-like dresses with open backs or plunging necklines. And while elements of ‘tradition’ (e.g. smatterings of lace) can be found, it’s done with a modern edge. Case in point: Rime Arodaky’s Dover gown has the classic embroidered tulle look, but features a large cut-out in the back, a low neckline and a figure-hugging silhouette that will be sure to catch the eye.
You won’t find any sweetheart, strapless ball gowns at this boutique either. New to the scene, Rituals of Love has established itself as another go-to spot for brides who want a more unconventional look. The store’s curated collection features modern, sophisticated gowns with a bohemian feel. And while it can be overwhelming to visit large outlet stores, this intimate, exposed-brick boutique allows brides to feel right at home with personalized one-on-one appointments. Their list of inventory includes the likes of Bo and Luca, Something Blue and bridal lingerie by For Love and Lemons.
This bridal shop is designer heaven—they carry some of the most luxurious gowns on the market. Brides can sift through pieces by Vera Wang, Berta, Zuhair Murad, Hayley Paige (a millennial favourite!) and more. Whether you’re going for a romantic look, sexy sophistication or bohemian-goddess vibes, Blush Bridal has a gown that will work for you and your style. And while you can walk through the store, we recommend making an appointment at this popular location so that you can get a full hour-and-a-half session with one of their consultants. (They have seamstresses too!)
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Bisou Bridal has been operating in Vancouver for 14 years, and it’s not difficult to see why. This boutique offers a variety of dress styles, perfect for the brides that want to try different styles from top designers like Monique Lhuillier, Galia Lahav and Theia. Bisou also has an in-house alterations department to ensure that your dress is exactly the right length and fit.
This small Vancouver bridal shop prides itself on carrying simple, romantic, comfortable gowns. The intricate details in their dresses make them elegant, without too much fuss (like this beaded insert on a Nicole Miller gown). If you’re a fan of Jenny Yoo or Ivy and Aster, then we recommend you head straight to Frocks. And don’t worry, if you’re just looking to browse, walk-ins are welcome. Keep in mind, however, that you do need an appointment to try on dresses or to have alterations done by their on-site team.
Everly Fine Bridal is a must-visit; they carry lines from small, independent designers in the U.S., New Zealand and Australia. With the modern bride in mind, dresses by designers like Tetyana Merenyuk blend delicate features with unexpected details (to wit: lace-sleeved gowns with an open back and criss-crossed straps). Whether or not you know what you’re looking for, this bright and airy Kitsilano shop’s selection may just pleasantly surprise you.