Authentic Designer Wedding Gown Samples
AWARD WINNER (5X)
Thanks to recommendations from couples on The Knot
Based in Philadelphia, PA, The Sample Rack is a wedding dress boutique. Offering sample gowns from renowned designers, this company provides high-end styles at a more accessible price. They work by appointment only, so every customer can get their full attention.
The Sample Rack first opened in 2007 and is happy to serve brides throughout the Tri-State area. Since opening its door, this boutique has twice moved to a bigger property to account for its rise in popularity. The team here prides itself on its warm, friendly service. They are passionate about helping each customer find the dress of their dreams, no matter their budget.
Your appointment at The Sample Rack will start with a consultation where you can discuss your ideas with an experienced consultant. They can help you make the dress your own, using some of the accessories they carry. These include veils, hair accessories, sashes, belts, and cover-ups. They are also happy to refer you to an alteration company to ensure your chosen gown fits perfectly.
LGBTQ+-owned Business
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Details
Accessories
Cover Ups
Hair Accessories
Headbands
Pins, Combs & Clips
Sashes & Belts
Veils
Dresses
Wedding Dresses
Fashion Services
Bridal Stylists
Plus Size Available
Private Appointments Available
Awards and Affiliations
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Reviews
4.8
out of 5.074 reviews
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Review Summary
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The Sample Rack garners high praise from multiple reviewers for its extensive selection of designer dresses at affordable prices and excellent customer service. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable and helpful staff, like Bethany and Rosemary, who offer guidance while allowing brides to explore different styles comfortably. The personalized and intimate experience, along with the option to try on numerous gowns, receives commendation. Customers highlight the unique and whimsical dress options and stress-free atmosphere that make dress shopping at The Sample Rack a delightful and successful experience.Review photos
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Bethanne V
5.0
1/16/2025
I can not say enough good things about my experience picking a dress at the Sample Rack. It was the first store I visited and ended up being where I bought my dress. They were helpful and informative leading up to my appointment. They reached out a day in advance and asked for inspiration pictures and fits that I liked so they could pull dresses in advance. My stylist was incredible, picking out dresses in advance and pulling ones that caught my eye and slowly narrowing down those picks based on my feedback for each dress. They let me try on my favorite dresses in the back and out in the sun. They provided a discount for my zipper that needed replaced and provided me with a list of tailors. I love their commitment to sustainability as well. I only wish the dress appointments were a bit longer (are 60 min, might need to be 90 with all their options).
Alex D
5.0
12/02/2024
The Sample Rack was actually the third place I went to try on dresses. It's such a cute little shop with an excellent selection of designer dresses and affordable accessories. I worked with Bethany and she was a gem. So easy to work with and an absolute pleasure. She made me feel comfortable and was honest with me which I always appreciate in a consultant.
They had such a great selection and they even had a dress that I had tried on and loved in my size from another store for $1400 less than the actual price. It turned out to be my dress and I even got my veil for a fantastic price as well. They were perfect and I loved them so much!
I cannot recommend the Sample Rack more highly enough for everyone, especially for anyone looking for designer dresses for affordable prices!
Any questions?
Courtney M
5.0
10/16/2024
The women at the sample rack were lovely and very knowledgeable. They helped pick dresses you described but also helped get you a bit out of your comfort zone. They have a wonderful selection and great prices! I've already suggested them to a few friends, one of which got her dress there as well.
Katie C
5.0
9/29/2024
Shopping at the Sample Rack was such a fun and affirming experience. I had already tried shopping at another boutique, and was wondering if I would find a dress I truly loved because all the styles seemed the same. But the stylist at the Sample Rack was so wonderful and selected a great variety of dresses to try. Trying on the variety of styles ended up being such a fun experienced, and it made me more excited to pick out a dress. I ended up falling in love with the first dress I tried on, and got excited at the end to try it again with the sample veil. I would recommend the Sample Rack to anyone who wants to try a variety of styles to see which they like best. Excellent customer service!
Elaine E
5.0
6/19/2024
Bethany was so excellent and lovely -- she was willing to do everything in her power to help me explore and see my vision made a reality (whether that was through The Sample Rack exclusively, or not!). She was just what a bride needs to feel calm and confident while having fun in the dress shopping process.
Maddy D
5.0
5/30/2024
I had a wonderful dress shopping experience. They heard me out with preferences and still helped me try things out of my comfort zone to really get an idea and my dress is gorgeous.
Blair B
5.0
5/19/2024
Such a great experience with Rosemary - I appreciated the honesty about tailoring and fit options, plus the diverse options to look through.
Ashley F
5.0
12/01/2023
As someone who strongly dislikes shopping, I was originally going to buy a wedding dress through Etsy. However, I decided to stop by The Sample Rack on a whim based on their good reviews, and am SO glad I did! Bethany was absolutely fantastic to work with - super flexible and genuinely kind. The atmosphere was relaxed and intimate, with zero pushiness; I never once felt pressured to make a purchase or have a stereotypical "say yes to the dress" moment/experience, which just isn't "me". Ultimately, I walked away with an amazing deal on a gorgeous designer gown that fit me almost perfectly off-the-rack. I highly, highly recommend looking for a dress here!
Rachel C
5.0
10/16/2023
This was a great experience for me and my guests! Jordan was our sales assistant and she was positive, encouraging and exuded great customer service. It was nice that they only do one appointment at a time since it was a more personal experience between my guests and I as I tried on dresses. This appointment was what I was expecting when I dreamed of going wedding dress shopping. We even got to pick the gowns off the floor! I also applaud that they have a range of sizes.
Kennedy D
5.0
6/13/2023
Thank goodness for The Sample Rack!! I found them 2 months before my wedding and they helped me find my fairytale dress. I went into the store a little stressed because I was shopping for a new dress after not liking my original. Their inventory was great, lots of styles and sizes to choose from. They helped me try on over a dozen dresses until I found the perfect one. My new dress fit me so much better and I loved knowing that it was one of a kind. Truly so grateful for their support and help.
Stacy A
5.0
11/14/2022
My experience at The Sample Rack was amazing. I had a one stop shop experience and found the dress of my dreams! Throughout the entire process I felt comfortable, and by dress 7 I found the one!
Tiffany H
5.0
10/14/2022
My dress was PERFECT.
So many bridal salons ask you for what you want and select dresses for you to try on. What I loved about The Sample Rack, was getting to touch and feel the available options. The dress I selected was one I didnt imagine getting, and almost didn't try on. I was encouraged to try it on anyway, and immediately fell in love!!
I loved that it felt unique, timeless, and so whimsical. And that it was only $1000. It needed minimal alterations: just a shortened hemline and some simple bustling. I'm so so so happy I went with The Sample Rack!
Becca M
5.0
6/07/2022
I had such a great experience here! I went last September when things were shutdown more so my best friend and I were the only ones in the shop Bethany was our assist and was super nice and helpful. After trying on a few dresses and asking what I liked and disliked about each she was able to pick out the perfect dress for me. It was beautiful and reasonably priced which is always a plus. I highly recommend going here!
Adam and Eve T
5.0
5/12/2022
With just a few weeks remaining before our wedding, my wife needed to replace the one she bought at a big name store. A friend suggested The Sample Rack because we didn't have much time or money, and fortunately they scheduled us quickly and happened to have the perfect dress for my wife! We got it tailored quickly and she looked amazing. Thank you Sample Rack!
Emily K
5.0
11/27/2021
Buying my wedding dress at the Sample Rack was the best decision I made for my wedding! We had an amazing experience and found the perfect gown. This was actually my second dress - I ended up not liking my first one. Carlene really helped me see the possibilities with my dress, and she helped me select the absolute best gown for me. I can’t recommend the Sample Rack enough!
Lindsay W
5.0
9/23/2021
Trying to wedding dress shop during the COVID-19 pandemic was not the ideal, but my first (and only) dress appointment at the Sample Rack proved to make it so much easier! I was able to reserve the entire shop for myself and two bridesmaids and was given undivided attention and time to try on every different style dress there was. I ended up falling in love with the first dress I had tried on, a beautiful Pronovias gown that fit me like a glove at a MUCH reduced price then the designer. The best part was that I got to walk out of there with my dress in hand!
Amanda K
5.0
5/23/2021
Carlene was took an interest and really listened to what I was looking for. She was very communicative before the appointment and warmly welcomed my mom and I in. Since I was flexible about the style, she pulled dresses I didn’t think would be my style or flattering. She is an expert in knowing how to pick options for her brides and we had a blast. I chose a dress she selected and it was like magic as soon as she clipped me in. And the store is more beautiful inside than I expected a sample store to be and the one on one service was a luxury. Thank you, Carlene and The Sample Rack!
Marrissa W
5.0
4/12/2021
My mom suggested this place. My consultant was knowledgeable, and accommodating even during the COVID restrictions. She was so patient with me and really listened to what I was looking for.
I picked out 4 dresses and found the one. I was able to take my Maggie Soterro gown home that day. I was amazed. The other shops I visited said, due to covid, a dress to order would take a year. I didn't want to risk it.
There was a lovely selection and I would recommend this place to all my friends. The customer service was excellent and they posted a picture of my on Facebook.
Marin K
5.0
12/05/2020
Everyone at the sample rack did an incredible job making myself and the guests feel so comfortable and special. They were the most body positive wedding shop I visited and their styles and prices are unbeatable.
Nae S
5.0
9/20/2019
The Sample Rack did an amazing job with helping me find a wedding gown. They were not pushy at all, and really made me feel confident with my dress vision. They said my dress could be molded to what I wanted and it WAS! They also went above and behind to help me find my dream dress!
S and R M
5.0
4/28/2019
Beautiful, very different gowns! The ladies were so attentive to my desires. I don't like ruffles or lace and I wanted to sparkle without being gaudy. My dress was EVERYTHING!
Courtney T
5.0
10/30/2018
I am so happy I got my dream dress from the sample rack!! Now this style place isn’t for everyone. I feel in love with my dress that was $6,800 at Kleinfeld’s, I purchased the dress for $1,400 at the sample rack!!! No one at my reception knew I was in a sample!! The dress was slightly small and they recommended Irina Signal who made the dress fit me perfectly!!! Everyone at the sample rack was very professional and extremely helpful!! Wedding dress shopping is stressful but they made it so much fun!!!
Katrina T
5.0
10/28/2018
We only had 3 months to plan our wedding and I was so grateful to have found The Sample Rack. The ladies there are wonderful! My mom and I crammed visits to 4 bridal salons into one day and the ladies at The Sample Rack were by far the best at making us feel comfortable and supported. I told Carleen what my budget was and she did not scoff, but instead started pulling beautiful dresses that fit within what I was willing to spend. We found THE dress there, it was within my spending threshold, and I even got a discount for paying for the dress in cash. AND- the dress got so many positive comments from guests!
Alyssa B
5.0
10/27/2018
I had a great experience finding my dress here, but it wasn't me who found it. My MOH had called the shop to secure an appointment and mentioned a dress style from another store that I liked a lot, but wasn't 100% happy with, and based on that one dress description the saleswoman had a dress in mind for me. It was the first one I tried on, and I loved it just as they knew I would. I tried on several other styles for comparison, but of course ended up with the one that was picked out before I even stepped in the store. It felt like a Cinderella magical moment, and they captured the moment by taking a polaroid photo of myself, MOH, MOB, and MIL which was a cute momento from the occasion. The experience was personal, efficient, and at the most reasonable pricing for designer gowns. They also recommended our tailor for alterations (The Tailory) and that recommendation was so appreciated. Thank you!
Emmalee M
5.0
10/21/2018
I had an absolutely wonderful experience at The Sample Rack -- I wouldn't change a thing! I was shopping only about a month and a half before my wedding date and Carlene and Amelia were completely accommodating of my budget and timeline. They were so attentive and patient (I think I must have tried on 8 different dresses), and they helped to make the entire experience fun and stress-free (for me and the two friends I brought!). Their one-on-one attention was above and beyond anything I experienced in any other bridal salons. I left with a beautiful Jim Hjelm dress for a very reasonable price (their prices are all unbeatable), and they gave me a referral to a great seamstress to get the alterations done in time. I couldn't be happier with The Sample Rack, and I've recommended them to all of my friends in the Philadelphia area. Thanks again for an amazing experience, Carlene and Amelia!
Katey P
5.0
10/13/2018
I loved that it was only one appointment at a time, they were so knowledgeable & had me try on so many different options before finding the perfect dress. The selection was great and I was able to get my dress for a steal for how beautiful and high quality it was!
Brittany A
5.0
10/11/2018
I went in with a pretty clear list of what I wanted my dress to be and what I wanted the dress not to have. They brought back dresses that fit what I wanted and then I saw they brought back a dress that fit everything I DID NOT want. They saw me in it when I could not imagine ever liking the dress. I tried it on and apparently everything I did not want was exactly what I needed in a dress. I walked out with the complete opposite type of dress that I wanted and it was PERFECT.
Zoe R
5.0
8/20/2018
The Sample Rack is amazing! An appointment with them means the entire store to yourself, and they let you search through the dresses yourself as well as pulling their finds. I found EXACTLY what I was looking for at a steal of a price! Highly recommend!
Diahna J
3.0
7/28/2018
Bought a very pretty dress here. The selection is great but the bridal consultants were a little pushy to make the sale. They even purposely ripped the connecting thread between the layers of my dress's train to make a point; I didn't like that.
Kami B
5.0
4/09/2018
Greatest experience you could ask for! They are very knowledgeable about their gowns and they made me feel right at home. I am so happy I was able to find my wedding dress with them.
Maureen O
5.0
2/24/2018
I loveeeeeeeee these people. They made a very beautiful moment in my life, truly magical. I am truly blessed to have found them. I said YES to the dress with the biggest smile on my face.
Melynda D
5.0
1/05/2018
AMAZING!!! At first, I felt overwhelmed by how ambitious these women were, but they just blew my perceived dream dress out of the water! They listened to my vision, and were able to find exactly what I wanted--and it didn't come in the package that I imagined. As soon as they put on my veil, it was over. My MOH and mother agreed that I was THE bride. Carleen and her team made it happen!. Seriously, you can't go wrong with this place.
Elizabeth A
5.0
10/14/2017
What a cool place. Bargain shopping never looked so beautiful. You tell them your size and they pull all the options of designer gowns. Found my dress on the first visit and I loved it. Be patient if you don’t find it the first trip!
Cassandra W
5.0
8/22/2017
It was the only place I went that only allowed one bride at a time. That makes all the difference because anyone important to you can be there, and they truly focus on you. I found my dream dress, for a great price!
Devon H
5.0
5/08/2017
The Sample Rack is the definition of a bridal dream come true! They fit me in when one of their appointments cancelled and the first dress they put me in became the one instantly. Not only are these some of the sweetest people I've worked with while planning my wedding, but they KNOW wedding dresses. I could not have been happier with my experience. I can't wait to go back to visit and share photos of the big day. Thank you for the dress of my dreams!!!
Alair H
5.0
9/24/2016
Brides- this place is a MUST visit. I had been to a bridal chain store SEVEN TIMES before I decided to stop by this boutique, and my experience at those chain stores nearly brought me to tears. I am a curvy bride, and usually wear size 12-14 (meaning size 16-18 in this crazy bridal world). At these chain stores I visited prior, I was never brought anything that actually fit, or that made me feel beautiful. It seriously got to the point where I doubted I would find a dress that I liked, much less loved. From the first second I stepped into The Sample Rack today, I felt valued, beautiful, special and completely attended to. There were two wonderful women who devoted at least 90 minutes entirely to me, helping me find dresses that actually fit, and that were exactly the style that I wanted (vintage lace, made for curvy body types). Neither woman made me feel like a pariah or a burden for being over a size 10. I mentioned that I liked lace, and illusion necklines, and they brought me a handful of dresses that fit the bill almost exactly. I ended up buying a dress that was HALF the price of a similar dress at the chain store, and of a MUCH better quality. I cannot even begin to put into words what a better experience, and what better quality this store has to offer. Please, please, please make this a stop on your wedding prep. You will not regret it.
sharon m
5.0
8/24/2016
Everyone here is wonderful! With my wedding date 3 weeks away my seamstress aunt passed away and I had to scramble to buy a dress. Carlene got me in as soon as an appointment opened up and she, Jim and Rachael were warm and supportive. The inventory was gorgeous and you can not find this quality of work for these prices anywhere. While I did not find my perfect gown here I highly, highly recommend The Sample Rack.
Stephanie U
5.0
7/21/2016
I did not actually attend my appointment here, but I still feel compelled to give a solid review for The Sample Rack. I cancelled my appointment because earlier that same day, I had an appointment at a different salon and found my dress there. However, I am thoroughly impressed with this salon's customer service. When I scheduled my appointment, I had a consultant call me directly and discuss what kind of dress I was looking for. She gave me her personal number and had me text her pictures of dresses that I liked, so she would be able to pull similar styles for me to try on. After I found my dress at a different salon, I called and left her a message explaining why I was cancelling my appointment, and she sent me a message that same day thanking me for informing her, and congratulating me on finding a dress. She seemed nothing but happy for me, and did not give off any negative attitude that I would expect from most retailers at an appointment cancellation so close to the appointment time. I'm very impressed with their customer service, despite never having walked through their doors.
Knottie1458313280
2.0
3/18/2016
4 reviews
2.0 star rating 3/18/2016
I understood I was shopping at a Sample store and was told that the dresses were sold as is and at a significant discount. My daughter fell in love with a dress, but being very cost conscious asked if they could do a bit better than the $1000.00 we were quoted. The saleswoman excused herself to call the store manager to see if this was possible. She returned and said the price was firm and that we were getting a real deal, as the original cost of the dress was $2000.00. We took the dress, feeling as if we had gotten a good deal. Unfortunately, I was able to find the dress on many online websites (including The Knot) and the price range was $1000-1499.00. I called Carlene to address the issue and request a discount based on the fact that we bought the dress with the understanding we were getting a 50%discount. She called the owner and he refused our request. Carlene explained that she could not change what we were told by her staff and that we were still getting a good price. She further relayed that the owner offered to throw in a free veil or take back the dress. We were not interested in any of the three veils in the store. After much back and forth and Carlene not wanting a poor review for the store, she offered to give us the 10% discount that the owner gives to Jefferson Hospital employees. I responded that we were not interested in taking the discount as we were not affiliated with the hospital. It felt like I was being bribed to not write a negative review. Shame on me for trusting that I was being told the truth by the salesperson and manager. Shame on them for the way they handled the issue. Research before you buy.
Vendor response 03/18/2016
We are sorry we were unable to make her happy. It is true that the sales person she worke...
d with over stated the original retail a bit but not intentionally. Wedding gown retails are set by individual retailers and there is no exact number. The Knot lists a conservative range for retails. This dress is currently for sale as a sample on line from another seller for $1,000 (exactly what she paid us, but after we provided a full service appointment and the ability to see the condition of the dress in person before buying). Regardless, she was unhappy and we tried to fix that. Our offer was to return the dress for a full refund but she said if she did not get what she wanted she would write a bad review. We offered a veil or 10% off but she wanted a several hundred dollar refund, again with the blackmail threat of a bad review. Given those terms we will always take the bad review. Please look at all our reviews both here and other online sites. We are proud of our track record. Britton H. did rank us 2 stars. Higher than the 1 star she gave 2 of her 3 other reviews on YELP. We wish her daughter all the best with her wedding and hope it is everything she dreams of her special day to be.
Julie S
5.0
11/29/2015
I cannot say enough good things about Carleen and the Sample Rack. I had been to four dress stores previously and didn't have much success. Thinking back, none of the other dress stores had compared to my experience at TSR. Carleen has a true skill and is honest and resourceful. I am so pleased with my experience and my selection. The Sample Rack is a must!
katie D
4.0
9/29/2015
GO HERE!! The Sample Rack was amazing! So happy I found this shop through my mom's friends. Already recommending to every bride I know! Amazing service-you are the only bride in the store. Charlene was Awesome! Absolutely loved my one of a kind dress. Many, many compliments. Wish I could go back to buy another! My sister from North Carolina fell in love and insisted she wants to shop there when its time for her wedding.
Emily R
5.0
10/13/2014
I had a tall order for any bridal boutique. I'm 8 weeks pregnant and my wedding is 6 weeks away. Carlene was SO affirming and barely flinched at the challenge to find my perfect dress. I wear a size 14 which puts me in at least an 18-20 in wedding dresses. Not easy to find, particularly in samples. She had many to choose from and the first one she pulled was THE DRESS! It was fabulous. EVERY other shop I went to offered only 1-2 dresses that would fit and made me feel like I would have to settle given my "situation". I found my perfect dress, Carlene had a lot of knowledge about how to have it altered to allow for any baby growth that I have from now until my wedding (i.e. a lace up back instead of zipper) and made me feel absolutely gorgeous. Until I arrived at the Sampale rack, I really felt that I would have to settle for something less than what I wanted because of how quickly I was getting married and because I was pregnant. Carlene dismissed all of my worries and assured me that settling was not allowed. My dress is GORGEOUS, fits and will fit perfectly and was very reasonable considering the high quality of the dress. I can't say enough about how happy I am with their service. I HIGHLY recommend the Sample Rack to anyone who wants a private, boutique wedding dress appointment. The personalized attention was unmatched.
Amanda B
5.0
9/08/2014
I bought my dress almost a year ago, but had such an amazing experience I had to write a review to help other brides. Carleen was so amazing! I called her on Black Friday and asked if I could come in that Sunday while my fiance's mother was in town. She said absolutely. Her and her assistant put me in several dresses that I had described and also asked if I would try something different. I'm so happy I did! It was an wonderful experience. They made me feel so beautiful, unlike another bridal salon I went to the day before. I would totally recommend the Sample Rack to any bride with an open mind!
Leigh K
5.0
5/11/2014
The team at The Sample Rack were amazing. I found the perfect dress!!! They even help me pick out the perfect necklace!!
Jen C
5.0
11/30/2013
I loved my experience here! Carlene was absolutely amazing from the very first phone call, and she made the whole experience better than I would have ever imagined! Everyone there was incredibly nice, and Carlene found the perfect dress for me. They were able to work within my budget, too, which was very important. I can't say enough good things about it - the people, the dresses, the store itself, the whole experience was wonderful. I will be sending everyone I know to the Sample Rack!
Christine C
5.0
10/21/2013
I found the perfect unique gorgeous wedding gown at an affordable price. Everyone at the wedding asked me where the dress was from b/c it was awesome!!
Chrissy R
4.0
9/23/2013
I had to ladies help me find my dress and the store to myself. It was a great expieriance. They had me try on dresses I would not have even thought to try on. I had already been to about 6 or 7 stores before I came to the Sample Rack, so by this point I was feeling pretty defeated. I had a fantastic time and I was finally able to find the dress. Everything in the store is around $1000.00 so at lease you really can't go over your budget.
Mary-Catherine C
5.0
9/17/2013
It's truly an individualized trip there. They open the salon only to the bride and her party for the appointment. They ask if you have shapes in mind and bring you things they think would look good on you. I got an amazing deal on an Alfred Sung that needed minimal alterations. Everything is 1000 or less, samples of tons of designers.
Donna K
5.0
8/14/2013
This was the perfect place for me! I wanted a personal environment where I could find a dress that suited me at a reasonable price and this place fit the bill.
Carleen was extremely accommodating to my time limitations. She was the perfect consultant. After listening to what I liked and assessing my body, she pulled 4 gowns -- all of which I would have been very happy with. Ultimately, the fourth was so perfect that we didn't feel the need to see anymore. She then helped me find the the most amazing antique accessorties that ensured my dress would be as unique as I am.... All this for under $1000 and in less than 2 hours!
If you can remain open to new possibilities and are a sample size, I highly recommend that you call Carleen and see if there is something "on the rack" for you. The price can't be beat!
Christine D
5.0
7/25/2013
The ladies at the sample rack made dress shopping so much fun! They had tons of options and great prices. I loved my dress and dress shopping experience.
They also recommended Nilah, a FABULOUS seamstress to do all my alterations.
Valerie W
5.0
7/15/2013
So - there are several reasons why this place is amazing. First I called to make an appointment and spoke to Carolyn. I told her I was coming in from out of town and was cutting it pretty close to my wedding date (like 2 months close:) She offered to open the store for me on a day they were closed!!! Very sweet and amazing - and pretty rare. I ended up making an appointment for a day on which they were open - and I was so happy that I made the trek to Philly! I tried on several dresses and Carolyn was so patient with me and my mom. When I finally found a dress that was literally perfect for me - Carolyn seemed genuinely excited that I had found the perfect dress - she hugged me! These are women who truly love what that do and are excited when they can help you look perfect for your big day. It was a really perfect experience and I am so glad I went - my dress is stunning and it was under $1000 - which for this dress - was a deal! I have been to many dress stores and have seen what you get for under 1000 - and nothing was a gorgeous and perfect as this dress. Thanks a million to Carolyn - this store was amazing!
Marie s
5.0
11/07/2012
Loved getting my dress and Charlene is the best!
Leigh S
5.0
10/18/2012
Sample Rack was the first and only shop I visited. I tried on about 6 dresses and bought the 2nd one I tried on. I really appreciated the shop owner's selling style, she came off as practical and honest - not your over-the-top, gushy type. Her sales associate was warm and genuine, and they both seemed to be committed to looking for the perfect dress for my specific body type. and I found it here. I am a size 6 and found that there were lots to choose from. I also bought my veil here on another visit. The price I paid for the dress I bought - which was covered in extensive beadwork - was unbelieveable. I loved my dress and I'd recommend this shop to anyone looking for a beautiful gown at a great price.
Candice S
5.0
10/08/2012
AMAZING value. I got a beautiful designer dress at a fraction of the cost of Kleinfeld.
Kelly C
5.0
9/08/2012
What a great place to find your wedding dress! I initially called to make an appointment at the beginning of my search for my dress. They advised me to make the store my last stop so that I would already have an idea of what kind of dress I wanted/looked right on me. That's because what they have in the store is what they have so if you want a dress you have to buy it then (no ordering-you take the gown home with you that day!)
They had a decent selection in my size, and the prices are great. The dresses are all samples or extras from other store, so you get brand new amazing dresses at great prices. I know they have designer gowns too, although that didn't factor into my choice of wedding dress at all.
You have to make an appointment beforehand, which works out really well, because they are able to give you their full attention and the experience is much more relaxing. The women working there made the process really fun. They were so nice and honest about their opinions on the dresses I tried on, even when they both thought different things. I brought my mom, aunt, and best friend with me, and the staff made the whole process enjoyable. And I found my dream wedding dress! And at an awesome price in a great atmosphere. I would absolutely recommend the Sample Rack to everyone!
Jess P
5.0
9/06/2012
I was greeted by two women in the shop who were very nice. It was fun to try on dresses with them, and I must have tried on 15 dresses before I found the one that I eventually wore at my wedding. When I was contemplating buying the dress, I met with the owner who was stopping by who had very good insights about how to redesign the dress and how to tell my mom I had bought a dress (when she was not there with me). The dress was a bargain, and they gave me a discount because I work in a local hospital. Great experience.
Allison P
5.0
8/16/2012
This place was perfect for me, because nothing is over $1000 so (depending on your budget) you can fall in love with any dress in the store without having to worry about the price too much. I got an amazing dress for $950 that would have otherwise cost over $2600. I am a sample size, so I don't know how much they have in terms of a variety of sizes, but it looked like they had quite a variety. The ladies there also found a pair of earrings for me that went perfectly with my dress and I got tons of compliments on both the dress and the earrings.
gretchen d
5.0
7/30/2012
I went to the sample rack 8 months before my wedding for something to do with my cousin while she was visiting me in the city, and was not expecting to come home with my wedding dress. I pulled a couple of gowns off the racks to try on, and the ladies assisted me with trying them on, and showing them to my cousin. i thought i wanted no sequins, no beading, no shiny satin- just something with pretty fabric detailing, like a chiffon flower or something. When Carolyn brought me a cream satin dress with silver bead-and-sequin-detailing and a fit-and-flare shape i said "that's not my style" to which Carolyn replied "just put it on."
i laughed, and did, and i immediately fell in love. i thought it couldnt get any better until the sales associate (i forget her name, im so sorry!) said, "wow, you look like one of the girls from MadMen" and i was sold. i have never felt so beautiful, comfortable, womanly, and so completely myself in a dress. Thanks ladies!
even better: the dress was originally $3500 and i paid $990 for it because it was a sample. score.
Meryl J
4.0
5/08/2012
The Sample Rack was the first and only place I had gone to check out wedding dresses. The store takes designer dresses that have been on mannequins around the area, and sells them for under $1,000! (You don't need to be the size of a mannequin either, they have a range of sizes!) I made an appointment and when I came in, I was the only bride in the store. It was so nice. There were two women who made it so easy. They pulled different style dresses to see what looked best on my body type, and they asked me what I wanted in my dress. I found my dress within 45 minutes, it was about the 5th one I'd tried on! So easy. The prices are great too, all designer dresses under $1,000. They do not do fittings or cleaning at their store so you will need to find someone else to do that. But I was SO in love with my dress and looking back on my wedding pictures makes me want to wear it over and over again.
Katie P
5.0
1/24/2012
This is a sample dress store, so the selection is going to vary depending on when you go. That being said, I had a great experience. The first dress I saw when I walked in was the one I bought! They do not overbook appointments so you get personalized service. They are patient and understanding...if you want to go back and forth between two dresses (like I did), they will work with you. Plus, the price is GREAT!
Allison K
4.0
10/18/2011
I found my dress at the Sample Rack. It wasn't what I pictured myself wearing, but when I tried it on I knew it was the one. Very friendly and helpful staff and reasonable prices too.
Hilary S
5.0
9/27/2011
I loved this little store. I loved that they only serve one bride at a time so we had the store to ourselves. When I heard about this store my plan was to keep coming back here till I found my dress. Buying a dress at retail price was too expensive for my taste but I didn't like the quality at a store like David's bridal so the Sample Rack seemed a good fit. I ended up getting lucky and finding a dress the first time I went there. The sales lady was very helpful. I told her about my wedding and she picked a bunch of dresses that were my size and she thought would be appropriate. We almost gave up when she convinced me to try one last dress and I loved it. It was everything I was looking for and it was discontinued so I couldn't have gotten it anywhere else. It ended up being about 50% of the retail price. All her dresses were also of good quality, I didn't see and obvious tears or stains, my dress was perfect except for a loose button. I recommended this place to my sister-in-law and she ended up getting her dress there too. Everyone should definitely try it
Lisa S
4.0
9/21/2011
I had several wedding events for which I needed dresses so I was on a strict budget and super ecstatic to hear about the Sample Rack. I went on a Saturday afternoon and tried on 5 dresses before I found 'the one.' They group the dresses by size and then style. Also, the supply depends on what dresses they've received recently. I was so happy with the dress and the tailor they recommended. The dress was in perfect condition - I didn't even have to get it formally cleaned, just pressed after traveling with it. Don't start here, it's definitely a place to visit AFTER you've tried on a bunch of styles and know what you like and don't like. No dress is over $800!
Shannon M
4.0
9/10/2011
Didn't have to worry about going over budget. Pulled dresses quickly. Lots of different styles, good quality. Good and bad staff. Felt a little pressured into the dress I bought, but I ended up loving it later. Not quite the "bridal" experience like the more expensive shops, but gets to the point and gets you the dress you want for the price you can't beat.
Kristin O
5.0
9/03/2011
My mom bought my dress for me. We looked at other stores and she almost choked when a dress cost 1200. I heard about the sample rack and was glad I found the perfect dress for my body there since it was well within mom's budget. The staff is super helpful and I tried on a bunch of different dresses. The one I chose was strapless and had a fully beaded boddice, buttons down the back and a silk bottom. After alterations it fit my body like a glove. They recommend Nilah for alterations. She does a great job but she is a little pricey. In hindsight, I would have shopped around. The dress I bought was probably originally $2500. I got it for $700 (there was a 100. coupon), alterations and veil were about $600. So my dress and veil with alterations- overall cost about $1300.
Colleen K
5.0
8/03/2011
Found an amazing dress for a fraction of the price I would've paid in a boutique.
Amanda S
3.0
6/26/2011
I was drawn to the sample rack's designer dresses for cheaper prices. Carolyn is a bit pushy and told me an inflated retail price of the dress I purchased. I was shocked when I looked up the designer a few days later and her quote was at least $1,000 higher than the real price. I ended up with an amazing dress that after substantial alterations was perfect. It was a decent deal getting the sample, but not nearly the "steal" that they want you to believe it is. Educate yourself on typical designers they carry and actual retail prices before you go.
Jackie F
5.0
5/21/2011
Afraid of a Wardrobe malfunction. I swore I would not get a strapless dress. Unfortunately, at most of the stores I went to, that was all that they had. The Sample Rack had the best selection of dresses out of all the places I went to. In the other stores, I couldn't find anything to even try on. Here, I found so many things I liked, but I still ended up getting the first dress I tried on! And nothing is over $800.00! This place definitely is worth checking out!
jane m
5.0
5/17/2011
I was totally stressed in my hunt for the perfect (and affordable) wedding dress. I was trying to resist the David's Bridal route of cheap mass market dresses and had all but given up on finding what i wanted- when i heard about the Sample Rack. My first trip there- they asked a few question, pulled some suggestions and the second dress I tired on (one i initially rejected) was THE dress. Save yourself the stress- let the experts hand select the perfect dress.
Everything is under $800 and all are samples (so when you need alterations - call Kate Pettit- she's more affordable than who they'll refer you to).
Dannielle F
5.0
2/11/2011
I love love love my dress! Plus I got a dress that wasn't from David's Bridal.
When I arrived we were given wine and then we took our time (private appts) and looked around. It was weird because they were still above La Fourno. But who cares if you can get the $3000+ dress of your dreams for $800!?
Brita E
5.0
2/02/2011
I loved it. Definitely worth visiting this shop.
Annie Z
4.0
1/20/2011
Friendly, knowledgable, honest service. I am a young bride but felt that I was well respected...this was not the case everywhere I want. Beautiful dress, great price, and I was not pushed to buy a dress that I didn't want. Highly recommend.
Katherine C
1.0
1/12/2011
I made an appointment here that happened to be during the time of one of the major blizzards that hit the Philadelphia area in winter 2010. It is always hard to separate weather hype from reality, but days before people were talking about the possible severity of the storm. Other dress vendors I had appointments with that weekend called and rescheduled times or otherwise communicated with me that they would check with me on a "day-of" basis once we truly knew what the weather and road conditions would be like.
Carolyn Verdi, the proprietor at the Sample Rack, called me a couple of days before during the anticipation period and asked if I lived within Philadelphia's Center City area. When I said I did not and lived in the suburbs she said she wanted to know since brides in the city still planned on coming in to the store and she wanted to know whether she could give away my appointment slot to another bride. I said that I would have to see how bad the roads were and in the meantime I would keep my appointment and call her to reschedule if the conditions were poor. I asked whether or not she would still be open and she assured me that yes, of course she would be open since she lived just down the street.
On the day of the storm was quite bad, but the roads were fine if taken at a slow speed. I tried to call in to the store several times before I left for my appointment, but never got a response. Based on my experience in the planning stages, Carolyn had said that she was the only person in the shop and unable to answer the phone since she was assisting people in the shop. So I made the slow journey to the store and when I got there it was closed. I tried calling repeatedly as well as going to the address listed for her planning service and got nothing. I stood outside in the snow for about an hour before leaving.
When Carolyn got back to me the next day she was really very unapologetic and rude about explaining why she stood me up for my appointment. She said she assumed I would not make it and so she left mid-day. When I said that we had recently agreed that I would call on the day-of to talk about appointments her response was that she asumed I would call in the morning. Considering I had a 5 P.M. appointment and in the morning when the snow was still falling, I considered that a poor excuse. At the very least I believe she could have called me that morning to speak with me before leaving the shop and being out of communication.
Based on this experience, I would not reccommend doing business with her and shudder to think about what she would do to brides in need as a part of her wedding planning company!
Clearly this blizzard was an unusual situation, but I visited several other stores that same weekend and had no similar problems as I did with this store. Each of the other stores were very proactive in communicating with me about their store hours and the road conditions in their area; I had no problems either keeping my original appointment time or rescheduling another time.
I know this review will likely be met with a rebuttal, but I believe it is important for brides to know about my poor experience with Carolyn and hope that people see my response to this incident the way I do!
samantha s
5.0
10/12/2010
I had the pleasure of selecting my wedding dress at The Sample Rack. The owner, Jim Whittaker, is one of the nicest people I have ever met. He was so incredible in helping me find my dress. He selected about 10 dresses for me and I ended up falling in love with one of them. It was honestly the most beautiful dress I have ever seen, and everyone at the wedding raved about it! Everyone should go to the Sample Rack. The shop is beautiful, the prices are amazing, and the service is even better. You will not regret it!