Buyer Info FAQs
Encore Bridal is excited to offer brides a way to purchase an unforgettable bridal gown at an enviable price. Saving money here will allow you to spend more in other areas. Go ahead…get the honeymoon suite, have your favorite flowers shipped in for your wedding, or buy a piece of furniture for your new house.
1. Why buy a “couture” high-end designer wedding gown?
Beside thoughtful cutting-edge designs, high-end designer wedding dresses are usually made of high-quality silks, which have a look and feel completely different from the synthetic fabrics that are used for other designer wedding gowns. In addition, the craftsmanship of these gowns is remarkable, frequently including double lining, built-in petticoat, built-in corset, invisible zipper, and perfectly straight French seams.
2. Why buy a nearly new wedding dress?
When you buy a nearly new wedding dress you have the opportunity to share in the love and joy with another bride, engage in an earth friendly practice (reuse and recycle!) and of course, save money.
3. How do I know what size to buy?
Every designer has different measurements for each size and many of our gowns have been altered to fit the previous owner. If the gown is a sample gown, look at the size chart for that designer and then have someone take your measurements (see, “how to” under measuring). If the gown has been altered, we’ve made it easier by including the bride’s street size when worn, as well as her height, and the height of the heel she wore. Still not sure? Contact us for help.
4. In what condition are your bridal gowns?
We thoroughly inspect all wedding gowns prior to accepting them for consignment to ensure that there is minimal evidence of wear and damage, and that they have been professionally cleaned. All of the gowns in our store are in VERY GOOD or EXCELLENT condition. Gowns in excellent condition are either new or gently used. These gowns may have snags in the fabric, some missing beads, a missing hook and eye, difficult to see markings, or light dust at the hem, all of which would not easily be noticed unless closely inspected. Gowns in very good condition, may have small marks or light stains, have missing beads, small tears (1/8”-1/4”) at the hemline, or may have had the seams mended. The condition of the gown is listed in the gown description and we attempt to fully disclose all evidence of wear, tear, and damage. All of our gowns are considered to be in “walk down the aisle” condition, but will not be in perfect, “straight from the manufacturer” condition.
5. Where do you get your inventory?
The gowns on our site have been hand-selected and thoroughly inspected by us. Some of our gowns are brought to us by brides who are looking to pass on a gown they loved or are looking to recoup some of their costs. We also receive sample gowns from upscale bridal boutiques that need to open-up space to allow for new inventory. We have turned down many requests to sell gowns on our site because we are committed to bringing you only the most worthy gowns.
6. Do you have a walk-in store?
Not at this time. We are able to keep our prices lower for you by remaining an e-Boutique. However, if you have a particular dress you're interested in and would like to TRY BEFORE YOU BUY, we would be happy to make a private styling appointment for you in the Los Angeles area. We are currently meeting with clients at A Legendary Affair in Manhattan Beach.
7. Why would I buy a wedding gown online?
Convenience, friendly customer service, availabiltiy of gowns not at your local boutique, and to get more for less.
8. Is it safe to order online?
Yes! We use highly secure SSL technology to keep your information safe.
9. Do you accept returns?
Yes! Please see our Return Policy.
10. Do you provide alterations?
No. We provide recommendations for expert seamstresses in some areas of the country. Please refer to the alterations page for further information.
11. I don’t see the specific gown I’m looking for, will you contact me if you receive it?
Yes, just tell us the gown you’re looking for, and if it comes in, we will contact you first, before posting it to our catalog. We also post New Arrivals to our site monthly.
