Here’s Exactly Where to Shop for Wedding Dresses Online

While shopping online for day-to-day clothing is typically a no-brainer, things can get a bit tricky when we're talking wedding dresses. It can be tough to find The One without seeing bridal gowns in person, let alone knowing where to begin browsing in the first place. So to help us nail down exactly where to shop for wedding dresses online, we tapped Daniel Sanchez, creative director at Azazie, and Tahirah Nall, LA-based bridal stylist, event producer and founder of bespoke bridal concierge service ClothesPetals. Together, they've brought us their best advice for all things online wedding dress shopping, from top tips for finding your dream gown to the best wedding dress sites for doing it.

In this article:

• Can You Shop for Wedding Dresses Online?
• Does It Cost Less to Buy a Wedding Dress Online?
• Where to Shop for Wedding Dresses Online

Can You Shop for Wedding Dresses Online?

Once upon a time, wedding dress shopping required schlepping to your local bridal salon with a pair of wedding shoes you might be wearing and a few complicated undergarments in tow, only to end up clipped into a dress that's likely nowhere near your size. However, we're happy to report that times have changed.

"Wedding dress shopping has evolved far beyond the traditional, in-person boutique experience where brides once navigated limited store selections, strict appointment schedules and pressure from commission-based sales associates," Sanchez says. Today, lots of bridal gown retailers offer an elevated online shopping process with benefits that go far beyond convenience—think a wider selection of sizes and styles, the ability to try on gowns in the comfort of your own home and even detailed reviews from the brides who have bought them.

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That said, there are a few reasons you might want to stick to a traditional, in-person dress shopping experience. If you're looking to have that magical, Say Yes to the Dress moment surrounded by family and friends, shopping online may leave you feeling a little unfulfilled. "This new wave of brides, primarily Gen Z, have seen that life is too short to postpone their joy," Nall says. "They want to experience the personalized, tactile and, most importantly, emotional waves that come with the in-person, boutique setting of wedding dress shopping."

Nall notes that shopping in person will also help eliminate any surprises in quality and fit, which could lead to more time and money spent on tailoring. "The convenience of an in-store experience—being able to try on different styles, feel the fabric and receive personalized attention—adds value that can be hard to put a price on when it comes to your perfect day," she adds.

What's best for you will likely depend on where you are in the wedding dress shopping timeline. But no matter which route you're leaning toward, you should keep in mind that some wedding dress boutiques sell gowns both online and in person. If you still feel unsure about which direction you want to go, browse The Knot Vendor Marketplace to find bridal salons in your area that do both.

Does It Cost Less to Buy a Wedding Dress Online?

Given that the average cost of a wedding dress was about $2,000 in 2023, you'll likely be relieved to find that it typically costs less to buy a wedding dress online. "We skip expensive showroom rentals, sales staff and other operating costs," Sanchez says. "This means the affordable wedding dress you're eyeing comes with fewer markups."

However, Nall says brides should keep in mind that while online shopping can offer lower prices upfront, additional factors like the cost of wedding dress alterations, shipping, taxes and import duties can quickly add up. "It's important to plan for these potential expenses and not solely focus on the initial price tag," she adds. Pro tip: The Knot's free wedding budget tool makes it easy to do just that.

Where to Shop for Wedding Dresses Online

And now, on to the fun part. Ahead, we've rounded up a list of the top 11 wedding dress sites out there so you can have the smoothest virtual shopping experience possible. Whether you're looking for high-end wedding dress designers or an of-the-moment look for less, we cover it all in the details below.

Anthropologie

Photo: Anthropologie

Why we recommend them: Anthropologie is one of the most well-known bridal gown sites out there, and for good reason. Along with an extensive collection of popular wedding dress designers to choose from (think Watters, Jenny Yoo, Besa and even the retailer's own brand, BHLDN), Anthropologie also boasts a range of bridal accessories like veils, shoes, bags and jewelry, allowing shoppers to curate their entire wedding-day look without setting foot in a bridal salon. And while the retailer has its fair share of luxury gowns, you'll find that many of them ring up under the $1,500 mark—a number well under the average wedding dress cost in 2023.

Size range: 00 - 26W

Shipping & Returns: Additional shipping fee of $15; Restocking fees may apply

IRL shopping option: Yes

Azazie

Photo: Azazie

Why we recommend them: When it comes to buying wedding gowns online, you might find yourself wondering whether the low prices you come across are legit. With Azazie, you can assure they are. The retailer specializes in providing brides with trending wedding dresses that ring up under $500, all of which you can try on in the comfort of your own home thanks to a convenient try-before-you-buy program. Perhaps even more impressive is Azazie's custom sizing feature, which allows brides to order their exact measurements to receive a gown that's perfectly tailored to their body. I have personally used this feature for three bridesmaid dresses, and I can confirm it's worth the hype.

Size range: XXS - 5XL; Custom sizing available

Shipping & Returns: Free standard shipping on orders over $119; Return shipping fees apply

IRL shopping option: No

Olivia Bottega

Photo: Olivia Bottega

Why we recommend them: If you're worried that online bridal shopping will leave you with a lack of customization options, Olivia Bottega is here to prove otherwise. From removing specific elements and adding detachable details to combining your two favorite styles into one design, the retailer is all about creating beautiful wedding gowns that feel tailor-made to each bride. Given this level of personalization, you wouldn't expect prices to be affordable, but we're happy to report that they are. Gowns start at just $690 and many in the collection will set you back less than $1,000.

Size range: 0 - 30; Custom sizing available

Shipping & Returns: Free worldwide shipping on orders over $300; Free returns within 14 days of delivery date

IRL shopping option: No

Lulus

Photo: Lulus

Why we recommend them: If Lulus isn't one of the first retailers that comes to mind when you think about shopping for wedding dresses online, we have a feeling that's about to change. The retailer offers some of the most affordable wedding dresses on this list, with prices starting at just $79 for a stunning bustier mermaid gown. And thanks to detailed reviews and customer photos from real brides, figuring out which dress is right for you is a breeze. You can also shop a range of budget-friendly bridal veils, shoes and jewelry, allowing you to curate a full bridal look for less than $300. And with free shipping and exchanges and a low restocking fee, ordering a variety of styles to try on is a great option.

Size range: XXS - 3XL

Shipping & Returns: Free shipping on orders over $50 and free exchanges; Returns subject to a $2 restocking fee

IRL shopping option: No

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Bridal By ELOQUII

Photo: ELOQUII

Why we recommend them: From separates to event dresses to full-on gowns, consider Bridal by ELOQUII the ultimate one-stop-shop for stunning, sophisticated plus-size bridal outfits online. Wedding dresses ring up under $900 and span from maximalist, pleated princess gowns in bold colors to simple column silhouettes with removable skirts, and with sizes up to a 32, there's a perfect fit for every bride.

Size range: 14 - 32

Shipping & Returns: Free shipping on orders over $125; Free returns and exchanges within 30 days of ship date

IRL shopping option: No

REVOLVE

Photo: REVOLVE

Why we recommend them: While REVOLVE is best known for its extensive collection of on-trend, just-dropped clothing, its wedding gown selection certainly shouldn't be overlooked. Offering countless of-the-moment designers like Rebecca Vallance, SIMKHAI, Rachel Gilbert and Bronx and Banco, it's a can't-miss destination for the cool girl looking to browse bridal dresses online. There's something for every budget with prices ranging from under $100 to over $4,000, and to top it off, there are three super-fast shipping options (free two-day included) that make it great for to-be-weds on a time crunch.

Size range: XXS - 4XL

Shipping & Returns: Free two-day shipping on all orders; Free returns and exchanges

IRL shopping option: No

Reformation

Photo: Reformation

Why we recommend them: While Reformation is well known for its collection of on-trend wedding guest dresses, you might be surprised to find that it's also a top-tier spot for off-the-rack wedding dresses that won't break the bank. From simple silk gowns to crepe sheaths with sheer details, the minimal-chic collection offers both trendy and timeless gowns that look like they came straight from the runways. All styles ring up less than $900 and are easy to order and return for an at-home try-on experience.

Size range: XS - 3XL; Petite sizes available

Shipping & Returns: Free shipping on all orders; Returns and exchanges subject to $8 shipping fee

IRL shopping option: Yes

For Love & Lemons

Photo: For Love & Lemons

Why we recommend them: A go-to for the boho bride, For Love & Lemons boasts a selection of unique, expensive-looking wedding gowns that all come in under $1,500. The retailer also offers styling suggestions for each dress, showcasing a variety of heels, bags, veils and hair accessories specifically designed to complement each silhouette. A standout feature of this online wedding dress shop is its consistent sales. For example, the site's Anniversary Sale means a whopping 40% off everything—bridal gowns included.

Size range: XXS - XL

Shipping & Returns: Free shipping on select orders over $250; Returns and exchanges subject to $30 fee.

IRL shopping option: No

Net-A-Porter

Photo: Net-A-Porter

Why we recommend them: Net-A-Porter has an impressive collection of designer clothing, accessories and shoes, and its bridal gown selection is no different. Featuring a variety of luxury designers like Danielle Frankel, Rodarte, Tom Ford and Valentino, it's an excellent choice for to-be-weds looking to splurge on a high-end gown—and maybe even at the last minute—without ever leaving the couch.

Size range: 00 - 16

Shipping & Returns: Free standard shipping on orders over $200; Free returns within 14 days of delivery date and free exchanges

IRL shopping option: No

Grace Loves Lace

Photo: Grace Loves Lace

Why we recommend them: While Grace Loves Lace has 26 global boutiques, the retailer has an extensive collection of ready-to-wear gowns available for purchase online. You'll also find a selection of made-to-order gowns that can be fast-tracked to ship out as close to two weeks before your wedding date, making it an excellent choice for brides who want a custom experience with a less-than-ideal timeline.

Size range: XXS - 5XL; Custom sizing available

Shipping & Returns: Free shipping on all orders; Returns accepted for ready-to-wear gowns within 21 days of delivery date

IRL shopping option: Yes

Jenny Yoo

Photo: Jenny Yoo

Why we recommend them: Jenny Yoo's modern and minimalist wedding dresses don't have to be purchased in a traditional bridal salon setting. With both made-to-order and ready-to-ship options available along with customization options, virtual styling appointments and an at-home try-on feature, having a personalized gown shopping experience without setting foot in a bridal salon is a breeze. The retailer also offers a "Style Board" feature, allowing to-be-weds to organize their favorite dresses and accessories to see their bridal vision come to life.

Size range: 00 - 32

Shipping & Returns: $10 shipping on all orders; $50 restocking fee per returned dress

IRL shopping option: Yes

Online Wedding Dress Shopping Tips From the Pros

Before you get shopping for your dream dress, we'll leave you with a few final tips from the pros.

1. Do your research. First things first? Consult with an expert. Nall emphasizes that even if you decide to buy your wedding dress online, you should always utilize a personal stylist or your online bridal boutique's virtual consultation process. Using their guidance, get clear on your wedding dress wants and needs. "When possible, order swatches of the fabric before committing to ensure the color and texture meet your expectations," Sanchez adds.

2. Know your measurements. "Using your standard dress size is a no-go when it comes to bridal gowns," says Sanchez. With that in mind, here are Nall's step-by-step instructions for taking dress measurements at home: "Grab a tape measure and make a note of the length of your arms (shoulder to hem), torso and legs along with the width of your bust, waist and hips," she says. "Take notes and compare them to sizing charts online."

3. Be wary of low prices. While it's true that online wedding dresses typically cost less, be wary of prices that seem a little too good to be true, as this can be a sign of poor construction or low-quality fabrics. "Just because the algorithm fed you an ad, doesn't mean it should be clicked," Nall says.

4. Factor in alteration costs. Even if you're ordering your dress online, you should still plan to factor in the cost of wedding dress alterations. "For a day as big as your wedding, regardless of the size, you will want your dress to fit—and fit perfectly," Nall says.

5. Set a realistic timeline. "One of the biggest mistakes brides make when purchasing a wedding dress online is not giving themselves enough time for delivery and alterations." Sanchez says. Remember that online bridal gowns can take anywhere from weeks to months to arrive, so plan accordingly depending on your wedding date. You should also remember to also make room in the schedule for alterations—even if you think you may not need them—to ensure you're left with ample time to make adjustments should any surprises arise.