As native New Yorkers, we know that life in Gotham has its challenges. But it also has unique benefits and only-in-New-York joys. Like the incredible number of boutiques and shops where the newly engaged and members of their wedding party can find the ultimate in attire, no matter their taste or budget. We get asked all the time about where the society crowd goes for wedding attire. Here you’ll find our edit of the most elite bridal salons and boutiques in New York City (NYC), where brides from all over the world can find the perfect luxury wedding dress, accessory, shoes, and more.
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Bridal Boutiques in New York (NYC)
You finally get engaged. You book the venue. But now comes the hard part: finding the dress. In some cases, brides have been dreaming about their perfect dress since they could barely spell the word wedding. For others, it brings major anxiety (does anyone even really like the color white?)
Elite bridal salons and boutiques in New York City (NYC) where brides find the perfect luxury wedding dress, accessory, shoes, and more.
The good news is that if you live in or visit New York City, you’ll be in one of the best cities in the world for finding the perfect wedding dress for any body type, any style aesthetic and any mindset.
romantic is still the top aesthetic most brides want
What do brides really want right now? A recent Anthropologie Weddings x Vogue survey revealed that the number one wedding theme is “romantic”. Over 35% of respondents stated they were planning or recently had a ‘romantic’ themed wedding. But the “bohemian” theme is on the rise.
modern brides need more than one dress
In addition to “the dress” brides are also looking for multiple looks. The trend of wearing multiple wedding dresses on their big day is growing, with nearly half of the respondents having two or more dresses for their wedding ceremony and reception. Of those dresses, both the mermaid and ballgown style silhouettes are preferred with A-line on the rise and cited as the most popular.
The premier elite boutique bridal salons for brides with the ultimate in luxury while shopping for a wedding dress in NYC.
Accessories, shoes, and jewelry are also a high priority for brides, so they are definitely looking for boutiques that offer these, as well.
Here is a roundup of some of the most luxurious bridal salons in New York City, offering brides-to-be a range of options including accessories, from grand flagship stores to intimate boutiques.
The 7 elite bridal salons in New York City
1. Kleinfeld Bridal
You’ve been living in a cave if you haven’t heard of this one. It is arguably one of the most famous bridal salons in the world—thanks in part to being featured on the hit TV show “Say Yes to the Dress”—and carries a wide range of designer gowns from names like Oscar de la Renta and Monique Lhuillier. You will get the whole bridal treatment here including champagne and those triple mirrors. The biggest benefit of Kleinfeld’s is arguably the variety. They pull a lot of dresses for you to choose from and just make the whole experience magical. A true bridal moment.
The premier elite boutique bridal salons for brides with the ultimate in luxury while shopping for a wedding dress in NYC.
2. Amsale
Located on a posh corner of Madison Avenue, Amsale has long been an insider favorite among socialites in New York City, whether for wedding attire or bespoke black tie event gowns. Even after the tragic passing of its beloved founder, Amsale Aberra, the salon continues to create gorgeous modern wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and custom gowns. You can visit the salon, or find an Amsale ready-to-wear gown at other top bridal boutiques.
3. Mark Ingram Atelier
There is a good chance Blair Waldorf would have gotten her dress here. Located on the Upper East Side, this salon is known for its exquisite designer collections and personalized service. And what incredible variety! They carry gowns from Valentino, Reem Acra, and Carolina Herrera. What is especially wonderful about this experience is you will have the variety and service of a department store but in a more intimate space.
The premier elite boutique bridal salons for brides with the ultimate in luxury while shopping for a wedding dress in NYC.
4. BHLDN
You may not have even known Anthropologie had a bridal line. They do, and it is incredible. That’s right. You can get your wedding dress and one of those amazing comfy chairs on the same day if you want. If you think BHLDN only has bohemian looks (something Anthro is known for), you would be wrong. They have classic silhouettes to more whimsical dresses and a great collection of shorter dresses as well as bridesmaid looks.
“Thanks to collaborations with popular designers, BHLDN’s dreamy gowns have a high-end look at a more affordable price point. There are many nontraditional options, including short and colored dresses, which are becoming increasingly popular,” Fashion and lifestyle expert Maggie Gillette said in a recent interview.
5. Spina Bride
If you are looking for something a bit off the beat and path but also exquisite then you need to venture out to Spina Brida in the Meatpacking District (close to Greenwich Village). You may also blink and miss it when you walk by but this leads to the perfect intimate bridal experience as you begin your quest for the right dress. “SPINA” is Italian for thorn, protector of the rose and that is what these dresses do (and they also make you look fabulous.) You will have a wonderful time working with owner Giselle Dubois.
6. Saks Fifth Avenue Bridal Salon
You really can’t go wrong with Saks for any shopping activity involving clothing – and weddings are no exception. It is absolutely iconic. You will get all the variety here and you can then go to one of the other many departments to find jewelry, shoes, and maybe even a bridal handbag. Their extensive selection of designer gowns includes Marchesa, Zac Posen, and Vera Wang. Plus the salon also features an on-site alterations department.
The premier elite boutique bridal salons for brides with the ultimate in luxury while shopping for a wedding dress in NYC.
7. Vera Wang Bride
Now there are wedding dresses and then there are Vera Wang wedding dresses. Wang has established herself as the ultimate dresser of brides. She is a genius. She is a classic as well as (literally) ageless. A wedding dress by Vera Wang will bring your wedding to a whole new level. As you may recall from the seminal 2015 film Bride Wars, “You don’t alter Vera Wang to fit you. You alter yourself to fit Vera.” Though Vera is carried in many department stores it will be a real treat to go to the Pronovias Flagship.
8. Lovely Bride
With multiple shops in the city, Lovely Bride is the ultimate destination for, well, lovely wedding dresses as well as bohemian and vintage-inspired gowns. The service is impeccable and if you are just starting your dress journey this would be an excellent place to start as your stylist will hold your hand every step of the way, They really try to get to know you and determine what you want your style to be for the big day. The shops are beautiful and will just make even the most apprehensive bride get excited. The salon also carries a range of accessories, including veils and jewelry.
9. Grace Loves Lace
It isn’t a real New York City wedding dress shopping trip if you don’t hit up at least one Soho boutique and Grace Loves Lace is a great choice. Contrary to the title, the Australian brand sells more than lace dresses. The stunning showroom is adorned with wild eucalyptus florals. Sip on some white rose tea or champagne while you try on dresses. These handmade gowns are made to order for your body which makes them even a bit more special.
the elite bridal salons in new york city
That’s our inside guide to the most elite bridal salons and boutiques in New York City (NYC), where brides can find the perfect luxury wedding dress, accessory, shoes, and more. Happy shopping!
