Bridal boutique or bridal outlet...is one better than the other? It all comes down to your bridal preferences (and budget). In this post, we explain the differences between the two.

What is a Bridal Boutique

The bridal boutique is that magic little place you might’ve walked by as a child, gazing up at the beautiful gowns you hoped to try on one day. 

Bridal boutiques are local establishments that are family or independently owned. They offer brides-to-be an intimate shopping experience and a more personalized approach to wedding dress shopping. 

Boutiques carry a unique collection of gowns that are often hand-picked to reflect the passion and personality of the store. You might find a one-of-a-kind gown by a local designer or a rare vintage piece.

What is a Bridal Outlet

When you’re in a time crunch or on a budget, bridal outlets provide stunning designer dresses for less. Generally, outlets carry the samples or overstocks, including discontinued designs or even current runway styles.

At The Bridal Outlet, our gowns available for purchase off-the-rack have been gently loved as a Love, a Bridal Boutique, or as a One Bridal sample. These gowns are intended for immediate sale and will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

3 Benefits of a Bridal Boutique Experience

1. An Intimate Experience

Bridal boutiques have the potential to give you that one-on-one attention when it comes to your appointment. 

At The Bridal Outlet, you’ll be assigned your own consultant who will become your “bride buddy” throughout the entire dress shopping experience. Having an expert who knows the ropes can help release the stress of doing everything yourself. 

2. Unique Dresses

Unlike big retail stores, bridal boutiques typically have a smaller selection (quality over quantity). 

At a bridal boutique, you might discover designs you may not find elsewhere, such as dresses exclusively sold at that specific shop. 

Also, if you find a dress you really love but it lacks a few details you desire (like sleeves or beaded trims,) it is likely that your bridal boutique can help by recommending a seamstress for customization.

3. A Perfect Fit

Bridal boutiques also give you the chance to try the dress on before making the purchase. This is HUGE because dresses can be EXPENSIVE. 

3 Benefits of a Bridal Outlet Experience

1. The Cost

Though they have been gently worn, shopping at a bridal outlet for sample dresses could save you a lot of money if you’re on a tight budget.

2. Ready to Buy

Bridal outlets sell dresses that are ready to buy and take home the same day. This means no waiting months for your dress to be completed. This is great for brides in a time crunch.

3. Everything is Ready to Go

Once you have the dress in your hands, you won’t need to worry about whether your accessories or veil work with your dress. 

You will be able to pick out all the other details based on the dress in your hands. This is great for brides who prefer to select the shoes after the dress is secured.

At The Bridal Outlet, we offer a range of accessories from our sister stores! We have a selection of gowns and belts in store for you to try on.