EDITORS NOTE: We get a lot of inquiries about this dress/coat. It is Snowdrop from the Aspera Collection by Swedish Designer, Alicja Eklöw.

I read an interesting article today on designer, couture wedding gowns and I wanted to discuss some of the myths and truths behind some of what was written! As someone who sells both private label and designs my own Haute Couture label, here is my thoughts on the article.

“Nothing beats designer bridal gowns when it comes to workmanship and uniqueness.”

This may, or may not be true. Some no name labels are poorer quality. But, I have worked with some suppliers for years who also work on brand name lines. For example, one company that I worked with also did a well known designer line which retailed for $3000 – $5000 and yet I could have similar styles, with the same fabrics and made by the same staff members, for $200 – $800! Yes, designer can mean quality BUT high quality affordable gowns do exist as well.

“Designer bridal gowns are made with natural fabrics that let your skin breathe, which is not always the case with off-the-rack dresses.”

Not true at all. Take a look at the designer specs – it it says SATIN that is the same satin as the off the rack dresses (and lots of designers have $3000+ dresses made from satin!) Likewise, silk is silk, chiffon is chiffon. You can find the same fabrics in off-the-rack dresses at lower prices.

“And unlike ready-made gowns, a designer bridal gown is molded to flatter your figure. You can be fitted for the right trim, silhouette, and length. The gown can therefore highlight the areas you want to show off, and hide the areas you want to conceal.”

Also not necessarily true. Yes, if you buy an off-the-rack gown, you will need alterations in order to get that same custom fit. But – this is still a lot cheaper then buying a designer gown! Also, most bridal salons include professional alterations and MANY online boutiques offer custom made to your measurement service for no additional charge!

“When you choose to buy couture bridal wear, you will likewise get to personally pick out the fabric and dictate the detailing. The dress will be one-of-a-kind, causing you to feel extra-special on your wedding day.”

Again – this service is also available from many smaller companies and designers who do not charge a ton extra for the label on the back of the dress. In fact – I did one custom design for a bride recently, in the fabric, color and design of her choice for just over $300! Even on a budget, it is possible to get a unique, perfect gown made just for you.

“Keep in mind that a wedding is no reason to go broke. Don’t buy an expensive gown if you cannot afford it. Instead, buy your gown from specialty stores that offer ‘designer-inspired’ versions which look just as good as the original designs, but are made with less expensive fabrics. “

First, yes a wedding is NOT a reason to go broke, lol. As for designer-inspired versions using less expensive fabrics, this is not always true either. I have done replicas of $4000 dresses, for $800 or less – using the exact same fabrics. Some brides may choose to use a different fabric to save even more. For example, a dress that is $400 in silk maybe only $450 in satin, a large savings if you are on a tight budget. But again, that is a choice.

Of course, this may be a stupid thing for me to post-as much as I like the idea that my label might make the a dress worth more – I think brides should not be taken advantage of. Demand can raise prices – but a designer label is not necessarily a better dress: it may very well be just a tag on the back of the dress that only you will ever see.

UPDATE: A lot of readers have been asking about the gown shown here. I had originally had a link to the dress maker but the link no longer works and I have been unable to find the gown. I have debated about removing the picture but since it is so popular, I will leave it up. If ANYONE knows who the designer is, please let me know. What I do know is that it is European and there was only one US distributor. If you want this coat, feel free to take the photo to your seamstress and see if they can make a replica for you.