Weddings Winter 2009 > Brides

Mary Adams the Dress

From her Murray Hill atelier, Adams creates dresses (from $2,000 to $7,000) that go against every wedding-day convention. Brides who eschew basic white are fans—she works in hues like lime green and tangerine. Orders take three to six months. Off-the-rack alterations not included. By appointment only.

Michael's, The Consignment Shop for Women and Brides

Most bridal designers won’t accept returns—even if the big day is called off. This second-floor shop is where many new or almost-new Vera Wang, Priscilla, and Badgley Mischka creations end up—at far more modest prices than they commanded the first time around ($395 to $2,800). Those willing to put up with cramped quarters and half-hour dressing-room limits will be richly rewarded.

Michelle New York Brides

Michelle Field’s gowns are traditionally romantic and understated ($1,600 to $5,000). For the rest of the bridal party, Field does custom bridesmaids’ and flower-girl dresses (from $250). By appointment only.

Mika Inatome Custom Bridal

After 24 years in business, Inatome has honed her specialty: slender mermaid gowns. This airy 3,000-square-foot loft is filled with more than 300 chic, modern dresses in floaty, fine textiles—silk, satin, crêpe, and chiffon ($1,700 to $5,000). Everything, including embroidery and beading, is done by hand. By appointment only.

Moi Meme Attire

One of the few bespoke options that caters primarily to women, this showroom offers custom-made suits and tuxes in a range of understated styles. The process involves an initial measurement, one fabric excursion, and two to three additional fittings. Prices start at $680. By appointment only.

Momsnightout.com

If you’re pregnant, momsnightout.com has a wide range of bridal styles and fabrics that will make you look fabulous, not frumpy—no matter which trimester you’re in.

Morgane Le Fay

Morgane Le Fay designer Liliana Casabal’s collection ($1,100 to $4,400) features light, ethereal fabrics that play with opaque and transparent materials like ivory silk, taffeta, duchess satin, and chiffon. Alterations not included for the prêt-à-porter collection.

Nicole Miller

Miller’s understated, laid-back gowns appeal to the free-spirited bride ($595 to $3,000). The bridal salon prides itself on a quick turnaround. Alterations not included. Tailoring is done off-site.

Oncewed.com

Find your dream dress at this easy-to-navigate website that offers thousands of listings for pre-owned (new and worn) wedding gowns at a fraction of the retail price. Check out their surprisingly informative blog, too.

Oscar de la Renta

Oscar de la Renta’s well-rounded 2009 bridal collection (from $3,300) appeals to anyone with couture sensibilities. This ever-classic bridal collection is available at Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier. Alterations vary by location.

Paula Varsalona for the Bride

Paula Varsalona adorns her dresses with hand-rolled organdy flowers and imported lace. The V collection is more formal, featuring strapless gowns with sculpted bodices (from $1,500); the Madison collection showcases elaborate embroidery, ornately draped fabric, and beading, along with pleated ruffles (from $2,000). Alterations not included.

Priscilla of Boston

This great first stop for indecisive brides stocks Priscilla of Boston’s elegant, classy gowns ($3,000 to $15,000); popular designer Melissa Sweet’s youthful looks ($3,000 to $8,000); and the Platinum collection, for those looking for something a bit more high-drama ($4,500 to $9,000). They also carry bridesmaids’ dresses ($200 to $400) that come in a wide variety of colors and styles—from basic cocktail to black-tie-appropriate gowns. By appointment only.

Pronovias

This Barcelona-based bridal behemoth recently opened a dazzling five-floor New York outpost with some of the nicest fitting rooms in Manhattan. Its 2009 bridal collection ($1,000 to $16,000) is defined by subtle lace and delicate ruffles. By appointment only.

Reem Acra

Acra’s designs, known for their detailed bead work and embroidery, have a decidedly old-world glamour and pared-down sophistication. Brides adore both the custom couture (from $20,000) and ready-to-wear gowns (from $3,000). Alterations not included.

RK Bridal

This bustling 11,000-square-foot store has great prices for those willing to search through 1,300 styles ($300 to $3,000). The staff will even lower a gown’s price to match the cost of the same dress if offered elsewhere for less. Alterations cost up to $350.

From the Winter 2009 New York Wedding Guide