You've spent hours pouring over designer gown websites, dreaming of walking down the aisle in a runway look. But your budget isn't budging, and it seems like couture is out of the question. Veiled Envy, a new designer wedding gown site that launched Feb. 1, has a solution. The site offers exquisite, never-worn gowns from big names at sample sale prices, giving you the chance to find a dress that will take your breath away without taking a toll on your wallet.
Founder and Twin Citian Katie Itterman was inspired to launch Veiled Envy after buying her own gown at a 2008 sample sale. She realized that with a designer dress website, she could help exclusive Midwestern boutiques clear their inventory while making beautiful gowns more accessible to brides throughout the country
"My ideal client is the bride who values quality fabric, construction, design, but also doesn't have the money to buy this year's runway look," says Itterman, who opened her office in Minneapolis's North Loop but serves brides across the country. Dresses come from previous seasons, with classic styles that last through each year's trends. Currently, Veiled Envy is offering gowns from Anne Barge (example pictured at left) and Vera Wang (example pictured below), and sales on deck for next week include Amy Kuschel and Nicole Miller.
In our opinion, it's a bit of Wedding Gown Roulette—if you're game for that. Gowns sold at Veiled Envy have never been worn, and shipping is free to all U.S. buyers. All sales are final, however, so it's important to be prepared before you shop. "Have a friend help you with your measurements," Itterman says. "We post all measurements online and measure each dress individually." Try to attend a sample sale prior to buying to know what size gown fits (for example, a size 10 in a bridal gown fits like a size 6 or 8 in everyday wear).
In addition to full-skirted styles, Veiled Envy also offers some fun, short frocks that are perfect for a beach wedding or a dress change between ceremony and reception. Prices vary, but many gowns can be found in the $800-$2,000 range. Ready to start shopping? Go to veiledenvy.com and create an account to gain access to these stunning gowns!
Veiled Envy Inc., 612-354-3291, veiledenvy.com
Photos courtesy of Louisa Podlich, Louisa Marion Photography.