Back in 2016 when I was a new bride, everything was overwhelming. It felt like I was immediately behind on wedding planning the day I got engaged and I remember feeling like I had no idea what I was doing. That was pretty crazy because I was IN the wedding industry at the time. Even as a wedding photographer, I felt stressed about every detail and I never felt like I had any clear guidance from wedding websites or magazines to help me plan this huge event. That’s why after going through the experience of being a bride, I have been creating guides to help my brides and grooms in the crazy wedding planning process.
One of the big questions that I get asked a lot is for recommendations. One of the big pain points for me was when I was figuring out what to wear to my engagement session. I had no idea of where to even get an outfit or what to wear. I wished I had a guide like this to take me to some amazing stores where I could get the perfect outfit. Below you’ll find a few of my favorites. Most of these are online stores but a few in person stores as well. I included curvy girl options because everyone deserves to find the perfect dress or outfit! Lots of these shops are also great options for bridesmaids and wedding guests.
LULUS: I am obsessed with this store. The outfits and dresses are soooo dreamy and gorgeous. Plus if you’re a student, you get a discount! The one downside is that they only go up to size 12.
RENT THE RUNWAY: RTR is such a cool service because you can rent some amazing designer clothes for a fraction of the cost. Plus, they get new stuff all the time and they just started a Wedding Concierge program so that you can get outfits for all your wedding-related events. Previous brides of mine have used this for their engagement dress and their bridesmaids’ dresses and they loved it! RTR has lots of different sizes. Another great subscription-based service for curvy ladies is Gwynnie Bee.
ASOS: So many different styles and types of dresses, separates and more! They have all different sizes and you can shop by your size and they even have an ‘outlet’ spot on their site where you can get some amazing deals!
MODCLOTH:You can find some cute vintage inspired dresses, a bridal boutique and a whole selection of cute clothes! For other vintage inspired looks be sure to check out UNIQUE VINTAGE & PIN UP GIRL CLOTHING. These all have lots of sizes and some really special and one of a kind pieces!
SAVED BY THE DRESS: Such cute dresses and women’s fashion! This is great for an engagement session, the bridal party, a glam dress or other wedding related events!
IMPRESSIONS ONLINE BOUTIQUE: This has both stylish outfits as well as cocktail attire outfits for all sizes at great prices. Another similar store is MAGNOLIA BOUTIQUE.
TORRID: For all my curvier ladies, this is a great option with fun everyday outfits and cocktail outfits for special occasions.
BRIDESMAID DRESSES:
This is a list of some of my favorite spots, but these are also amazing places to get formal and cocktail attire.
Excuse me while I go shopping and fill up my closet!
Be sure to check out the other guides to help you navigate this crazy time of your life!
What to expect at your engagement session & style guide
Essential Wedding Day Timeline