What brides don't know about designer gowns...

I know a lot of brides scratch their heads asking themselves, 'How can this designer gown be so gosh darn expensive?!?!?'

Brides might think that there is this absolutely ginormous markup when it comes to designer gowns and there certainly is some markup - after all, bridal businesses are in business for a reason. Gowns are generally marked up anywhere from 2.2x to 4x wholesale cost. However, brides would be surprised to know that the wholesale cost of gowns can be substantial and is never mere nickels (more like quarters).

Why is this the case? For the following reasons, be prepared to pay a little extra (but Ladies, we all know it's sooooo worth it).

Materials. When it comes to fabrics, trim, underlays, overlays, covered buttons, or crystals, there's a certain cost that goes with all of the above. High end materials like silk or reimbroidered lace can be pricey, because the fabric itself is pricey. Crystal beading, jewels, and intricate detailing also costs some dough because it is very labor intensive to turn these gowns into works of art. Gowns that have multiple layers with delicate overlays are chic but not cheap.

Construction. High-end designer gowns are constructed to last. The quality of the seaming and the attention to detail will ensure that this type of gown is built to last. Gowns which are made of polyester or less expensive materials can fall apart at the seams (literally) after dry cleaning or even if a bride is a little extra tough on her gown. Quality Construction + Quality Materials = A Forever Gown.

The cliche 'you get what you pay for' is very true when it comes to wedding gowns. While the markup exists, the wholesale cost for these gowns is still a pretty penny. Be rest assured that the $5,000 gown at your local salon did not cost the salon owner a mere $100.

We are always interested in giving brides luxury within reach. Everyday at DBLA an opportunity exists to have your delicious wedding cake and eat it too!

The Buying Guide for the International Bride

With the US dollar fluctuating all over the place, international brides are looking to the US for a great supply of new, sample or once worn gowns. Of course, DBLA ships worldwide and we always keep our international brides in the loop on any and all challenges that can occur when ordering products from overseas. It is unfortunately not as simple as ordering a CD from Amazon.com. Foreign brides should keep the following issues in mind when deciding to purchase from our country:

Customs. Ordering garments from overseas will trigger a taxable purchase. In some countries the tax is called VAT (Value Added Tax), in others it is simply referred to as duties or taxes. In all instances, when a bride in a foreign country purchases a gown from a country outside her own, a taxable event occurs. An additional tax payment to the bride's country of residence will be due and payable upon receipt of the gown by the buying bride.

The buying bride will be responsible for payment of these taxes upon receipt, and the tax rate will vary by country. It will be assessed based on the value of the gown/package, which is generally the insured amount. If a seller assures a bride it can totally circumvent this, the buying bride is putting herself at risk. She may not even receive the gown after posting payment to the seller for it, since there's a chance customs could confiscate the package and its contents without the proper tax payment.

Shipping. Shipping overseas is pricey, unfortunately. Due to increased oil prices, major carriers are charging a fuel surcharge, and shipping prices have sharply increased. Only reputable carriers should be considered when shipping overseas, and wedding gowns when insured can run between $150 - $250 to ship overseas, depending on the destination. UK and European brides can expect to pay in the $150-$200 range, while South African and Australian brides can expect to pay in the $200 - $250 range.

DBLA has shipped to many foreign brides, from our friends north of the border, to as far away as a fab American bride working in Beijing. Keep us in mind for all your bridal needs, whether you're over here or over there!