Q. Do you have any suggestions for where to find a “non wedding” wedding dress? – Loni
A. At good vintage stores, you can find gorgeous vintage nightgowns incorporating lace and chiffon that look very much like gowns (top one with a beaded or feathered bolero if you feel too bare, and make sure to wear excellent undergarments since there likely won’t be a ton of support). But of course vintage stores can be hit-or-miss, and there are tons of options that work at your local department stores.
Below, some suggestions (my personal favorites are starred):
Romantic
**Halston Heritage Long Pleated Dress** ($895); Aqua Chiffon One-Shoulder Dress ($173.60); BCBG Max Azria Marley Tiered Taffeta Dress ($938)
Minimalist
**Halston Double Crepe Petal Dress** ($2,385); Stella McCartney Sleeveless Crepe Shift ($1,295); BCBG Max Azria Belted Silk Column Gown ($348)
Short/Casual
BCBG Max Azria Scalloped Cutout Dress ($448); Acne Dophin-Draped Silk Wrap Dress ($660); **Lily Pulitzer Shayna Lace Dress** ($368)
Cocktail/Retro
**Yves St Laurent Strapless Dress** ($2390); Zac Posen Illusion Long-Sleeve Dress ($1,590); Priscilla of Boston Silk Taffeta ($2500-3000) [UPDATE: Jenny Yoo, recommended by Colleen below, also has some gorgeous – and affordable – cocktail-length dresses.]
Coffee & Cream
**Tadashi Off-Shoulder Lace Gown** ($408); Rachel Pally Long Cutout Dress ($238); Zac Posen Pleated Mermaid Gown ($3,690)
