Where To Shop For Wedding Dresses – Chicago
The best bridal shops in Chicago – according to my readers!
Hello friends!!! So sorry for being MIA here on the blog the past few days – it’s been a whirlwind of a week! If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I was out at Expo West the past few days with my pals at Terra Origin. My time at their booth was lovely, but I quickly realized that I wanted to say hi to SO many other brands when I wasn’t with them. Let’s just say, I wasn’t prepared for how exhausting or overwhelming it would be. Definitely not complaining though – it was SO inspiring to see so many creative and healthy products all in one place. I feel so lucky I got to experience it!
But let’s get to the main point of this blog post. WEDDING DRESSES! A few weeks ago, I got to go dress shopping with one of my best friends at BHLDN. It was SO fun to watch her try on dresses, but it honestly left me even more confused about what I want for me. So naturally, I posted a picture to ask for recommendations for other Chicago bridal salons. And you guys CAME THROUGH. That post has over 164 comments full of suggestions for the best bridal shops in Chicago, your favorite designers, and advice for the search.
Even though I haven’t gone shopping myself yet, I figured these reader approved bridal salons deserved a roundup post, right?! I focused on the city for this particular post, but check out these comments for a few places out in the suburbs, too! And of course, I’ll be sure to update this post when I go to some of these myself. You know I won’t be able to resist sneak peeks on Insta-stories either… at least of the cute decor in the shops 😉
Also, if you are a corona bride, I put together a roundup of the prettiest elopement dresses! You can read the whole post here or shop some of my favorites below!
The Best Bridal Shops In Chicago
Alice in Ivory
*updated*
Alice in Ivory was at the very top of my list before I was even engaged. We went to their smaller boutique in Lincoln Park when my sister-in-law was dress shopping, but their new West Loop location is NEXT LEVEL. Tons of natural light, the coolest designers, and the most beautiful dresses. My sister kept asking me if I wanted to make appointments at other bridal salons, but I had a feeling Alice in Ivory would have what I wanted… and I was right! If you want to read more about my experience there and how I picked my dress, head to this post!
“I had the best experience last month at Alice In Ivory. It was the third and last visit of our dress day, and it truly stood above the rest! Their space is breathtakingly beautiful and girly!” – Callie
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Lovely Bride
Back when I lived in Old Town, I walked past this bridal boutique all the time just to swoon over their window displays! I’ve known about Lovely Bride for a while because they also have a location in New York, so I’m glad they’re finally here! They’ve got a wide variety of designers, like Jenny Yoo, Ivy & Aster, Christos, and more!
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BHLDN
As I mentioned above, I got to BHLDN with one of my very best friends and it was SO FUN. Their selection of dresses are gorgeous in person, and I love that the vibe there is really approachable and chill. Plus, compared to most of the other bridal salons on this list, their prices are really reasonable!
“I got my dress at BHLDN Chicago and I’m trying to think of any excuse to go back there and try on dresses. Best experience!” -Cat
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Sarah Seven
I actually pinned a Sarah Seven dress back in 2013 (this gown with a beaded bodice!), so I guess you could say I’ve been a fan for a while! I also got to visit the salon when my sister-in-law went shopping and it’s so pretty. It’s nestled on a sweet little street in Lincoln Park, so you get a cute neighborhood experience instead of a glitzy downtown experience.
“Great customer service and a genuine understanding of body and style!” -Kendra
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Ultimate Bride
This is where my sister found her dress!! (Isn’t she gorgeous?!) We went to a few bridal salons throughout her search, but Ultimate Bride was the best on her list. She found the most gorgeous Bliss by Monique Lhuillier lace dress that looked like it was made for her. They were also great with alterations!
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Mira Couture
Mira Couture was recommended a TON in these comments, and it makes sense after looking at their list of designers. They have so many!!
“Best customer service, beautiful gowns, in house alterations – ask for Khrystyna!” -Em
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Glamour Closet
Honestly, I didn’t even know about Glamour Closet until people suggested it in the comments! Basically, it’s a bridal boutique with off the rack dresses at outlet store prices. Who knew you could find couture and well known designers for 25-75% off?!
“I had expensive taste but I knew I didn’t want to spend over $2k so I went to Glamour Closet. You’ll have to buy off the rack and probably get it cleaned, but it was worth it. There were some dresses that were breathtaking!” – Jess
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Dimitra’s Bridal Couture
Dimitra’s was another very popular recommendation, for both the wide selection and their service. Apparently they do sample sales sometimes, too!
“The owner was an absolute gem, extremely talented at honing in on your unique style, and this was one of the only boutiques where I didn’t feel judged for my size, shape, or budget. Ask for Ismini!” – Amanda
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Bella Bianca
I know I said I wanted to keep this list to bridal boutiques in the city – but it’s certainly nice to know that Bella Bianca has locations in both the city and the suburbs!
“They are incredible and will make sure you find your perfect dress! I got mine there and they were even able to work with my favorite designer to make accommodations to a dress I liked to truly make it my dream dress!” – Kelsey
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Honey Bridal
I feel like Honey Bridal is the cool-girl bridal boutique. It is located up in Andersonville and it’s owned by two fashionable sisters. I’ve loved following them on Instagram because they showcase dresses that are really simple and understated, as well as really unique finds.
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Alyssa Kristin Bridal
Alyssa Kristin Bridal is another awesome option. They make minimal, timeless, and chic dresses right here in Chicago!
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Belle Custom Atelier
“Hands down Belle Custom Atelier. Ask for Giselle- they have an amazing selection of designers, and if you don’t find something on the rack that’s perfect, Giselle will design you the custom dress of your dreams!” – Katie
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Viero Bridal
Not only are the Viero Bridal collections super unique and gorgeous, but you can also work with them to create a custom gown!! So cool!
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Weddings 826
I had no idea this little bridal boutique was right on Armitage, even though I’ve probably passed it a million times! So many of you had the loveliest things to say about it, and they have a few designers that the other boutiques don’t!
“Suzi is a doll and the salon is so quaint and adorable! They were amazing and make you feel really special!”
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What do you think are the best bridal shops in Chicago?
PS. You might also like the Chicago Venues We Saw (and which one we choose!) and Our Engagement Story.
