Four Places to Find an Informal Wedding Dress

The Search for the Non-Poofy Dress

Finding an informal wedding dress is surprisingly easy if you just know where to get one. Many women, for many reasons, want an informal dress - whether they're having a beach wedding, trying to keep costs down, or just don't feel right in layers of tulle. Whatever you're reason, here are four places you might get one.

Wedding Dress Shops

A traditional shop can actually be an excellent place to find an informal wedding dress. Many dress designers have recognized the growing demand for simpler dresses, such as Vera Wang and Alfred Angelo. Sometimes informal dresses are marketed as "destination dresses" intended for those having beach weddings or otherwise traveling with the dress in tow. Finally, don't pass by the bridesmaid section! Bridesmaid dresses are naturally less formal than actual bridal gowns, and many are available in white or ivory.

Department Stores

Within the category of informal wedding dresses there is a range of formality. Department stores have dresses that run the gamut. For an outdoor summer wedding, go for a white linen sundress. For an intimate evening, take a look at the cocktail dresses. While most will be black, you can find fabulous ones in white. Besides, who ever said you had to wear white? Another way to achieve an informal look is to choose a color. Finally, pay a visit to the evening gown department for less casual dresses.

Retail Stores

You may just find your informal wedding dress in stores you shop in anyway. Notably, J.Crew and Ann Taylor have launched wedding attire lines in recent years. Their dresses are not too formal and come in a range of styles, lengths, and colors. The downside is that you can only get these dresses by mail order. While they arrive quickly, it can be a hassle to return those that don't fit.

Create It

If you're fortunate to have a good sewing machine and the skills to use it, you can make your own informal wedding dress. You can design the dress yourself or purchase a pattern. If you don't have the means to make a wedding dress yourself, hire a local dressmaker who has wedding dress experience.

Happy shopping!