Bridal Gowns

Disappointed by what she encountered while shopping for her own wedding in 2013, New York designer Grecco launched her own bridal line the next year. Her soft, ethereal gowns, which start at $2,200, have details that make you look twice, like hand-embroidered floral appliqués on a tulle train.

alexandragrecco.com

The most comprehensive collection of Amsale Aberra’s crisp, chic gowns can be found at this flagship atelier, where dresses can be made to order or customized with an in-house tailoring team. Prices start at $4,000.

625 Madison Ave., nr. 58th St., second fl.; 212-583-1700; amsale.com

In addition to a selection of European and American designers, including Gemy Maalouf and Sarah Jassir, this salon offers a service for brides who want to create their own looks. Custom gowns are available in 12 weeks. Prices range from $2,000 to $10,000.

6 E. 45th St., nr. Fifth Ave., Ste. 1501; 212-682-0262; angeliquebridal.com

Anne Barge has designed gowns for celebrities like Taraji P. Henson, but she’s best known for her wedding dresses, which are carried at bridal boutiques (including Kleinfeld) around the city. Founded in 1999, Anne Barge is the flagship brand (dresses start at $3,500); the Blue Willow line offers similar princess silhouettes at lower prices (from $1,800), while Curve Couture caters to brides over size 16.

annebarge.com

Jet-setters flock to this department store’s Art Deco wedding salon for gowns by Ines Di Santo, Oscar de la Renta, Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa, and others. Gowns start at $5,000.

754 Fifth Ave., at 58th St.; 212-753-7300; bergdorfgoodman.com

This vintage-inspired bridal line offers a finely edited collection of wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and accessories, including designs by Badgley Mischka. Bridal gowns are $250 to $2,950, bridesmaid dresses $140 to $320. By appointment only. $

209 W. 38th St., nr. Seventh Ave., seventh fl. ; 929-232-3201; bhldn.com

This grand-scale salon offers unhurried service, impeccable on-site tailoring, and gowns by designers including Galia Lahav, Eve of Milady, and Stephen Yearick (from $4,000). Brides-to-be can also shop for accessories while their moms browse the eveningwear. By appointment only.

437 Fifth Ave., nr. 39th St., tenth fl.; 212-764-3040; www.bridalreflections.com

Search by silhouette, color, season, material, and even sleeve at this emporium, which has a vast online shop, plus showrooms on Long Island and in Secaucus, New Jersey. It also stocks bridesmaid and flower-girl dresses. Wallets, rejoice: Nearly every gown is under $1,000. $

(various locations); 877-867-7600; camillelavie.com

These handmade “grown-up whimsy gowns” are a blend of bohemian style, innovative design, and organic construction. Carol Hannah Whitfield and her team emphasize draping and movement to ensure the perfect fit. Mother-of-the-bride and bridesmaid dresses are also available. From $2,000 to $10,000.

307 W. 38th St., nr. Eighth Ave., 20th fl.; 212-564-8014; carol-hannah.com

Herrera’s bridal salon draws women keen on high-­fashion elegance. Collections offer glamorous silhouettes and fitted, romantic ball gowns (from $4,990).

954 Madison Ave., at 75th St.; 212-249-6552; carolinaherrera.com

A Parsons-trained designer and Vera Wang alum, Komm handcrafts each of her one-of-a-kind couture gowns from preliminary sketches through final construction. Prices upon request.

212-580-2690; colettekomm.com

The ultimate destination for affordable dresses offers the exclusive White collection from Vera Wang (from $250), Truly Zac Posen (from $250), and gowns from dozens of other designers. Savvy brides check for the oft-featured “$99 Sale.” $

751 Sixth Ave., at 25th St., (various locations); 646-827-4050; davidsbridal.com

This full-service atelier stocks looks by indie bridal designers such as Matthew Christopher and Rosa Clará. It also has more conservative dresses for Orthodox Jewish and Greek Orthodox ceremonies. Prices start at $1,500. By appointment only.

226 W. 37th St., Second Fl., nr. Seventh Ave.; 212-944-9013; designerloftnyc.com

Perched out in Midwood is a sprawling, 10,000-square-foot fashion utopia. The boutique, which has another location on Long Island, carries an extensive bridal collection of high-end designers from around the world, including Monique Lhuillier, Oscar de la Renta, and Naeem Khan. Cocktail dresses and eveningwear for bridesmaids, mothers of the bride, and guests are also available.

1888 Coney Island Ave., nr. Ave. O, Midwood; 484 Central Ave., Cedarhurst, N.Y.; 718-645-2600 (Midwood), 516-374-1054 (Cedarhurst); estisonly.com

Customers claim that owner Joanna Daidone can read minds and find the right dress for a bride’s budget, style, and body. Options include names like Justin Alexander and Lillian West, as well as in-house designer Jude Jowilson. Prices start at $1,500.

1089 Second Ave., nr. 57th St., second fl.; 212-486-2900; foreveramourbridal.com

Gabriella Risatti carries styles from 15 designers, including Jenny Packham and Marchesa ($3,500 to $12,000). In addition to wedding gowns, you’ll find veils, headpieces, and jewelry.

155 Wooster St., Unit 3W; 212-206-1915; gabriellanewyork.com

Brides flock to Glamour Closet for its frequently updated stock of couture and designer gowns at prices up to 75 percent off ($600 to $6,000). The walk-in-only salon carries sample styles by designers like Oscar de la Renta and Monique Lhuillier. Most dresses are around a bridal size 8, but smaller and larger sizes are also available. $

115 W. 29th St., nr. Sixth Ave., seventh fl.; 917-409-5277; glamourcloset.com

This seasonal sample sale is by appointment only, so you don’t have to fight other brides over the array of wedding gowns rescued from trunk shows, bridal exhibitions, and fashion shows. Typical designers include Victor Harper, Simone Carvalli, and Yumi Katsura, with prices up to 90 percent off retail. $

226 W. 37th St., nr. Seventh Ave., fourth fl.; 212-594-9480

For brides looking for a little drama, Di Santo offers tiered cathedral trains, voluminous taffeta, and Chantilly-lace illusion bodices that resemble a second skin. Di Santo’s background is in Argentine and Italian design, and her global business is a favorite of celebrities like Serena Williams, Kesha, and Laverne Cox. Dresses from $4,190.

905-856-9115; inesdisanto.com

J. Mendel’s bridal collection includes gorgeously draped gowns that range from vintage-inspired and Grecian to modern and avant-garde. Most styles fall in the $7,500 range, although beauties like the chevron-striped organza Bea ($12,900) are a considerable investment. Couture services are also available.

787 Madison Ave., nr. 67th St.; 212-832-5830; jmendel.com

Starr creates modern gowns (from $2,000, including minor alterations) from her collection of 100-year-old handmade lace and embroidery. She also offers 19th-century lace veils and antique lace wedding handkerchiefs. By appointment only.

245 E. 87th St., nr. Second Ave., Ste. 14D; 212-861-8256; janastarr.com

English designer Wilson-Marquis specializes in romantic custom-made gowns (from $3,000). She’s known for her couture embellishments: French lace, handmade flowers, and painted and silk-screened detailing. By appointment only.

212-452-5335; janewilsonmarquis.com

Redefining Brides + Bridesmaids. Our philosophy is to present you with a collection of gowns and bridesmaid dresses incorporating rich and luxurious fabrics paying great attention to detail creating an elegant, feminine, and refined look for your special day.

139 W. 35th St., nr. Broadway, Ninth Fl. ; 212-645-0823; jennyyoo.com

Sisters Jessica and Haley take on the wedding business: While both run this chic shop, the latter is the gown expert, and the former is a photographer. She likes to be an unassuming presence on the big day, going for natural-looking posed shots interspersed with her documentary style.

4 Purchase St., Rye, NY; 914-920-4017; bridal.jessicahaley.com

Brides-to-be flock to Lee for her unparalleled fitting abilities. Her understated designs run the gamut from simple silk ­halter gowns to sophisticated organza strapless dresses (from $3,200). She also customizes white tuxedos for men and women. By appointment only.

60 Bedford St., at Morton St.; 212-242-4128; jussaralee.com

At her Soho store, the renowned Australian bridal designer stocks off-the-rack gowns with sophisticated embellishments and clean silhouettes that are perfect for modern brides.

7 Centre Market Pl., nr. Broome St.; 646-912-9298; karenwillisholmes.com

Brides can choose from Conover’s customizable collection or dream up one-of-a-kind designs for bespoke gowns (from $1,500). She can easily whip up refined, classic numbers or accommodate more avant-garde aspirations. By appointment only.

363 Seventh Ave., nr. 30th St., 21st fl. ; 212-464-7675; kathrynconover.com

This famous full-service salon has more designer bridal gowns — including big names such as Pnina Tornai, Christian Siriano, and Maggie Sottero — than any other store in the world. By appointment only.

110 W. 20th St., nr. Sixth Ave.; 646-633-4300; kleinfeldbridal.com

Brides who want to break the strapless, sweetheart-neckline, and lace mold go to this boutique, where design partners Sathya Balakumar and Heather Green specialize in nontraditional silhouettes and fanciful details: geometric Japanese lace, high cowl necklines, and strips of raw white silk inlaid with antique gold sequins. From $3,000.

200 10th St., nr. Third Ave., Fourth Fl., Gowanus; 917-687-7544; lakumcollection.com

Since launching her eponymous line in 1998, designer Lela Rose and her feminine but modern dresses have found fans in Kate Middleton and Selena Gomez. Trained as a painter and sculptor, Rose has an eye for unexpected silhouettes — a ballerina-style boatneck or a skirt of cascading feathers — in rich fabrics. Dresses (from $4,000) are carried in boutiques and department stores around the city.

lelarose.com

Lyndsey Butler’s Locke Bride caters to the modern bride-to-be looking for that holy grail: a wedding dress she can wear again. Butler’s minimalist gowns are rendered in silk crêpe and priced at $595 each. They can be purchased only online (returns are free within 30 days).

646-448-4926; lockebride.com

This one-stop shop for brides has elegant designer gowns (from $190) and bridesmaid dresses (from $150). Featured designers include Maggie Sottero and Essence of Australia.

1822 Ave. U, at 19th St., Sheepshead Bay; 141 E. Jericho Turnpike, Mineola, N.Y.; 718-332-4385 (Sheepshead Bay); 516-248-2888 (Mineola); lotusbridal.com

Creating insouciant bridal gowns “for the adventurous soul,” designers and best friends Marteal Mayer and LaTimberly Johnson started their business after fielding their friends’ requests for custom wedding gowns. The line features funky little touches like a chevron-pattern organza skirt or an unexpected racer-back bodice made of French lace. Prices start at $2,500.

67 West St., nr. Noble St., Ste. 325, Greenpoint; 917-818-1089; loulettebride.com

This Tribeca store houses a gorgeous array of gowns, from flowing silhouettes by Rue de Seine to understated looks by Theia ($2,000 to $7,000). Accessories, belts, and jewelry range from $80 to $450. By appointment only.

182 Duane St., nr. Greenwich St.; 212-924-2050; lovelybride.com

This meticulously curated space offers brides-to-be the opportunity to test-drive some of the biggest names in bridal couture, including Monique Lhuillier and Ines Di Santo (from $5,000). By appointment only.

110 E. 55th St., nr. Park Ave., eighth fl.; 212-319-6778; markingramatelier.com

Christopher is known for his classic silhouettes, precise use of lace, and emphasis on getting the perfect fit. At his intimate salon, brides can select gowns (from $2,200) and work with Christopher to customize their choice. His line of veils (from $300) and a selection of accessories (from $100) are also available.

matthewchristopher.com

This atelier uses fine imported silk and lace to craft each custom gown ($2,000 to $6,000). One seamstress creates the dress from start to finish. By appointment only.

552 Seventh Ave., at 40th St., Ste. 301; 212-278-8030; moderntrousseau.com

Well known for her romantic and feminine gowns — Reese Witherspoon chose one for her big day. The latest ready-to-wear collection has offerings for moms and bridesmaids alike. Prices upon request.

818 Madison Ave.; 212-683-3332; moniquelhuillier.com

Designer Liliana Casabal’s bridal collection ($2,100 to $6,000) features luxe fabrics such as silk, organza, cotton lace, double georgette, and chiffon.

980 Madison Ave., nr. 77th St.; 464 Broome St., nr. Greene St.; 212-879-9700; morganelefay.com

Buy new and “nearly new” wedding dresses at 20 to 90 percent off the retail price. After the wedding, you may sell the dress back through the site — even if it’s been altered. Dress prices range from $79 to $20,000. $

nearlynewlywed.com

Cassini, of course, made style icons of Grace Kelly and Jackie O. His legacy lives on in his classically feminine bridal line, carried at David’s Bridal locations. Dresses have regal touches like ball-gown silhouettes, lace appliqués, and slightly golden tones. From $950.

olegcassinibridal.com

This essential American design house is known for its boldly feminine style, which carries over into the bridal collections. Dresses (from $6,990) range from simple columns of silk georgette to bodices composed of layers of hand-cut organza flowers and leaves that lead onto a full tulle skirt. Bridal jewelry and shoes are released in conjunction with seasonal collections, letting brides create a head-to-toe look.

772 Madison Ave., at 66th St.; 212-288-5810; oscardelarenta.com

Buy a discounted dress without the cluttered consignment-shop feel: This boutique holds appointments in a luxurious ambience, so budget-minded brides can still have the classic trying-on experience with family and friends. Find brands like Vera Wang, Inbal Dror, and Monique Lhuillier at up to 75 percent off.

1239 Broadway, Suite 604, New York, New York, 10128; 646-653-2672; ourstorybridal.com

Panache brings Beverly Hills glamour to its spacious East Coast salon. Knowledgeable staff help brides select gowns from a mix of well-known names such as Lian Rokman and indie designers like Rosa Clará (from $4,000). By appointment only.

545 Madison Ave., nr. 55th St., third fl.; 212-813-1919; panachebridals.com

Over her career, Varsalona has outfitted 70,000 women for their weddings, and she designs with the type of bride in mind; collections are categorized as “bohemian” or “city chic” to help customers find the right gown. Prices start at $1,800.

552 Seventh Ave., nr. 40th St., Ste. 602 ; 212-221-5600; paulavarsalona.com

These romantic gowns flaunt lace, bustier-style corsets, cascades of ruffles, floral embroidery, and flowing trains. Prices upon request. By appointment only.

14 E. 52nd St., nr. Fifth Ave.; 212-897-6393; pronovias.com

Acra’s high-fashion designs hit the right note between red-carpet glamour and pared-down sophistication. Brides adore both the custom couture (prices upon request) and ready-to-wear gowns (from $3,995).

240 W. 35th St., seventh fl., nr. Eighth Ave.; 141 NJ-23, nr. Alexander Ave., Pompton Plains, N.J.; 212-421-3200; reemacra.com

Long beloved for her ecofriendly ready-to-wear, designer Yael Aflalo also offers a bridal collection featuring floaty dresses in unfussy silhouettes that brides will want to sport long after walking down the aisle. Gowns start at $218.

23 Howard St., nr. Crosby St. , (various locations); 855-756-0560; thereformation.com

Brides searching for pristine couture dresses (from $1,200) and vintage jewelry flock to this upscale boutique, which carries designer looks from Chanel, YSL, Versace, and more.

45 Great Jones St., nr. Bowery; 212-625-1374; resurrectionvintage.com

This designer, who dressed Cheryl Hines for her marriage to Robert F. Kennedy Jr., creates chic, luxurious bridal and cocktail dresses, as well as evening­wear. Prices upon request.

1 Rockefeller Plz., nr. 49th St., PH; 212-207-1080; romonakeveza.com

Husband-and-wife team Mai and Josh Olivo’s virtual shop is filled with vintage-inspired wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and bridal accessories. Gowns range from $48 to $78.

shopruche.com

The salon boasts swank labels such as Jenny Packham, Marchesa, and Oscar de la Renta (from $5,000). Veils, headpieces, and alterations are also available.

611 Fifth Ave., nr. 49th St., ninth fl.; 212-940-2269; saksfifthavenue.com

Every Samantha Sleeper gown is made from scratch in the designer’s Brooklyn studio. Completely custom gowns begin at $3,500, and the regular collection is ideal for the fashionable bride: Details include an oversize bow at the neck, ever-widening tiers of Swiss-dot lace on the arms, or a bodice made of geometric feathers.

126 13th St., nr. Third Ave., Gowanus; 646-209-4856; samantha-sleeper.com

Seven’s figure-flattering designs feature flowing chiffon skirts with hand-stitched embellishments. Silhouettes include bridal separates such as the Delancey sequined crop and the Utopia satin skirt ($2,400 for the full look), as well as princess dresses. By appointment only.

180 Lafayette St., nr. Broome St., fourth fl.; 646-901-9070; sarahseven.com

Rebecca Schoneveld focuses on vintage-inspired silhouettes with a judicious use of lace and luminous silk. Fully custom gowns start at $3,000. The shop also carries unconventional dresses by independent brands ($1,500 to $5,000) committed to ethical production. By appointment only.

530 Third Ave., nr. 13th St., Gowanus; 718-788-3849; schonebride.com

A destination for imaginative and couture-quality bridal accessories, Kelima K designs custom-made veils, headpieces, wraps, and shrugs. Prices upon request. By appointment only.

611 Broadway, nr. Houston St., Ste. 538 ; 212-334-6546; she-will-be-loved.com

Shopbop’s wedding boutique features dresses by big names like Badgley Mischka, Halston Heritage, and Marchesa Notte, in addition to smaller, local designers. Dresses are $72 to $1,900, accessories $15 to $398, shoes $58 to $950, and jewelry $14 to $7,400.

shopbop.com

An antidote to those bridal stores packed with tipsy mothers and friends of brides, Spina is housed in an all-white West Village townhouse where a curated rack of dresses waits just for you. Gowns include embroidered ’90s silhouettes by Lee Petra Grebenau and sheer ballerina-inspired looks by Liz Martinez. By appointment only.

176 Macdougal St., nr. Eighth St.; 646-256-1389; spinabride.com

This atelier features several lines that range from simple, classic designs to more elaborate custom numbers. The Steven Birnbaum Bespoke collection is the most upscale, with designs ranging from $3,200 to $10,000. By appointment only.

151 W. 25th St., nr. Seventh Ave., Ste. 7B ; 212-242-2914; www.stevenbirnbaumbridal.com

This not-for-profit offers up to 75 percent off new and sample gowns by Vera Wang, Anna Maier, Nicole Miller, Lela Rose, and others, and all proceeds are donated to a charity for disadvantaged children. By appointment only. $

54 W. 21st St., nr. Sixth Ave., Ste. 901; 212-252-0661; bridalgarden.org

Customers claim that owner Joanna Daidone can read minds and find the right dress for a bride’s budget, style, and body. Options include names like Justin Alexander and Lillian West, as well as in-house designer Jude Jowilson. Prices start at $1,500.

1089 Second Ave., nr. 57th St., second fl.; 212-486-2900; foreveramourbridal.com

This design studio creates custom suits and tuxedos for women, with a simple online tool to help brides choose fabrics, colors, fit, and detailing. Prices start at $549.

thedapperdames.com

With options from designers such as Jenny Packham, this shop offers a huge selection of gowns and accessory samples at up to 75 percent off retail prices. Dress prices range from $500 to $10,000. By appointment only. $

40 W. 17th St., nr. Sixth Ave., Ste. 2B; 212-929-8868; thesampleroomny.com

Cuban designer Antonio Gual is adept at dramatic mermaid silhouettes, unexpected embroidery, and contouring with silk shantung. Prices start at $2,000.

109 W. 38th St., nr. Sixth Ave., Ste. 803 ; 212-575-3055; tullenewyork.com

The proprietors stock their salon with gowns by independent contemporary American and European designers, including Rembo Styling, Palazzo, Tomomi Okubo, and Amanda Garrett. The focus is on fresh, playful designs ($1,800 to $4,000). Alterations start at $400. By appointment only.

412 Atlantic Ave., nr. Bond St., Boerum Hill; 718-222-1178; www.vekabridal.com

The grande dame of bridalwear offers dresses (from $3,500) to fulfill every fantasy. Silhouettes include simple A-lines and voluminous, full-skirted showstoppers. The upscale boutique is also a go-to for footwear and accessories. By appointment only.

991 Madison Ave., at 77th St.; 212-628-3400; verawang.com

This shop carries popular designers, including Lihi Hod. The staff can ready an off-the-rack dress in ten days or custom-make one in ten weeks. Gowns start at $2,500. By appointment only.

72 Madison Ave., nr. 28th St., fourth fl.; 646-638-3263; weddingatelier.com

Founders Nancy Aucone (former head of the wedding department for Saks) and Susan Finale (former head of bridal at Kleinfeld) combined their decades in wedding experience when they opened this salon in 1996. The elegant space resembles an “art gallery for wedding gowns,” and designers such as Reem Acra and Romona Keveža are in stock. The wide selection of bridesmaids dresses means the whole bridal party can participate in the appointment.

1468 Northern Blvd., Manhasset, N.Y.; 516-869-8455; weddingsalononline.com