I highly recommend Be Unique Boutique for their excellent service and truly original selection of high quality, detailed wedding gowns.
I came to BU after trying on gowns in several Manhattan and Westchester bridal boutiques and vintage shop...s; I had liked some of the dresses, but nothing had quite given me that right feeling yet. The boutique is a small treasure box of exquisitely made dresses, some from European designers exclusive to this shop in the US. If you're really looking for something well made, different, and worth the price, don't go to Kleinfeld's, go to Be Unique. The prices are in the mid to high range, but when compared to dresses of the same price at a chain bridal store, the quality of fabric and construction are much better (and lighter and breathable…no polyester gowns here!!)
The shop's owner Erika attends to each appointment, so the feeling is very personal here. She helps you get into gowns, but without being intrusive or barging in on you when you're in your underwear. After a few simpler styles, I tried on "Flirt" by the Russian brand Papilio (a BU exclusive)….and had my moment. No tears, but it felt like the golden retriever puppies from the Estee Lauder commercial with the bride were running around me. Perfect. The gown was it.
A deposit of half was put down, and then payments thereafter. Easy and clear, with a delivery date set for a few months later. Did have a slight feeling of needing to order urgently, but mostly because the dress was going to be discontinued and had limited availability. The dress came in much earlier than expected and was held in the shop for me for several months. Tailoring was included with the price of the dress.
Clear, prompt response to email. Easy billing with no surprises. A great atmosphere in the shop, very clean and friendly. Clients generally chatting with each other like old friends.
Appointments are definitely recommended, since the shop is so small. Try to make them as far in advance as possible if you can, and later in the day if you are just doing something small (like trying on your dress with accessories). No time limit on appointments (as far as I could tell), unlike in most of the Manhattan boutiques.
Erika is very kind and runs a terrific shop--I wish her much success!! The dress was beautiful on the wedding day, I felt absolutely right in it, and received so many compliments on it. I've recommended the shop to many people since my good experience there.