Weddings Summer 2013 > Brides

Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier

This meticulously curated space offers brides-to-be the opportunity to test-drive some of the biggest names in bridal couture: Monique Lhuillier, Vera Wang, Angel Sanchez, and Oscar de la Renta, among others (from $5,000). By appointment only.

Merci New York

Merci New York helps the busy city bride find everything from the dress to the honeymoon wardrobe. Day-of wedding styling is available. Ask to see jewelry and clutches (python styles under $400) from their design collaboration with Madame Mathilde. Prices upon request.

Michelle New York Brides

Michelle Fields’s assortment of gowns is romantic and chic ($700 to $5,000). She offers custom dresses for bridesmaids (from $250) and flower girls (from $125), as well as veils and jewelry ($70 for crystal-encrusted bird earrings by Elizabeth Cole). By appointment only. (good value)

Mika Inatome Custom Bridal

Inatome has a reputation as a master of slender, custom-made mermaid gowns. Her airy loft is filled with about 300 chic, modern dresses ($1,700 to $5,000), and everything is done by hand. By appointment only.

Modern Trousseau

This atelier uses fine Italian silks and French lace to craft each custom gown ($2,200 to $6,200). One seamstress creates the dress from start to finish, and bridal accessories are also available.

Monique Lhuillier

The first East Coast outpost for the L.A.-based designer houses her bridal and ready-to-wear collections. Well known for her romantic and feminine gowns—Carrie Underwood chose Lhuillier to design her big-day look—brides, moms, and bridesmaids can all find dresses here.

Morgane Le Fay

Designer Liliana Casabal’s bridal collection ($900 to $5,000, including alterations) features luxe fabrics like ivory silk, organza, taffeta, duchess satin, and chiffon. Her designs have been worn by Halle Berry and Björk. (good value)

Nicole Miller

Miller’s understated gowns ($750 to $3,000) appeal to the free-spirited bride and often feature impeccable draping, column-style cuts, and sexy open backs. Appointments recommended. (good value)

Paula Varsalona

Varsalona’s formal V collection features strapless gowns with sculpted bodices (from $2,000); the Crème collection showcases elaborate beading and thread work (from $3,000).

Pronovias

This five-story Spanish boutique offers a wide selection of gowns, including an exclusive collection by Elie Saab. Gowns start at $1,100 and flaunt lace, bustier-style corsets, cascades of ruffles, floral embroidery, princessy ball gowns, and flowing trains. By appointment only.

Reem Acra

Acra’s high-fashion designs hit the right note between red-carpet glamour and pared-down sophistication. Brides adore both the custom couture (from $35,000) and ready-to-wear gowns (from $3,500).

RK Bridal

This 12,000-square-foot garment-district shop carries dozens of brands, including Watters & Watters, Bari Jay, Alfred Sung, Bill Levkoff, Justin Alexander, Maggie Sottero, and Alfred Angelo ($650 to $4,000). No appointment necessary. (good value)

From the Summer 2013 New York Wedding Guide