So you’ve started putting together the guest list, researching wedding bands, and scouting out venues (by the ocean in Carlsbad or on a vineyard in Escondido?), but there’s something very important left on your to-do list: finding the perfect dress. Whether you want something simple and sensual or a princess-style ballgown, here are 11 places in San Diego where you can say yes to the dress.
The white flower
Shopping for a wedding dress with a stunning view of Balboa Park feels like a lucky charm. The White Flower offers designer gowns from names like Martina Liana and Justin Alexander Signature, as well as in-house alterations and bridal accessories. The elegant atmosphere and friendly consultants who go above and beyond – and cry with you when you find “the one” – make the journey to your dream dress as smooth as it is special.
2121 Fifth Avenue, Suite 100, Bankers Hill
Archive Bridal Fashion
You’ll find the couture collection of international designer Reem Acra, endorsed by J. Lo and Mila Kunis, at Archive Bridal, along with other gowns featuring fine French lace and garden party vibes. You’ll also find often-forgotten essentials like bridal lingerie, robes and one-of-a-kind jewelry.
550 West B Street, 4th Floor, Downtown
5617 Paseo Del Norte, Suite 220, Carlsbad
Tiny Brides
Want a designer dress but don’t have the price tag? Find dresses from major brands like Watters, BHLDN, and Martina Liana at Winsome Brides, a thrift store that offers used dresses at a lower price. Stay within budget without sacrificing the bridal boutique experience.
5980 Severin Drive, Unit 101, La Mesa
Bride & Veil
Bridal & Veil is San Diego’s largest bridal showroom and offers a huge selection of over 3,000 gowns. Whether you prefer an asymmetrical feather silhouette, an embellished slip or intricately embroidered organza, you’ll find it here – and if your dream dress doesn’t yet exist, the store also offers customization and beading services.
1233 Camino del Rio South, Mission Valley
Jana Ann Couture Bridal
Size-inclusive is the name of the game at this Del Mar bridal shop, which offers ready-to-wear gowns up to a size 24 and was featured on TLC’s “The 40th Anniversary.” Curvy brides. Brides can find Jana Ann Couture in over 40 stores across the U.S., but San Diego is the only place where the brand’s showroom can be visited.
1555 Camino Del Mar, Suite 313, Del Mar
Blushing Bride
This mother-daughter team at Blushing Bride is San Diego’s own wedding dress sponsor duo. Grab up to four guests and let Nicole and Bela help you try on gowns from designers Eddy K, MikaElla, Adore by Justin Alexander and L’Amour Calla Blanche. Tip for brides on a budget: Sample gowns here start at around $500.
7040 Avenida Encinas, Suite 204, Carlsbad
LUV Bride
One of the larger bridal boutiques in San Diego, this tulle-filled showroom offers hundreds of gowns in multiple sizes so you can visualize exactly how your dress will look on the big day. Brides from sizes 2 to 28 can find their perfect dress here. Plus, there are complimentary snacks at every LUV bridal appointment.
5287 Linda Vista Road, Linda Vista
The hustle and bustle
You can shop online or visit a big-box dress store, but you’d miss the charm of San Diego’s bridal boutiques. Small but mighty, this 13-year-old Del Mar location offers gowns from 10 luxury lines, including Anne Barge, Berta Couture, and Stella York. Come in and browse—dresses on The Bustle range from $1,500 to $15,000.
1011 Camino Del Mar, Suite 114, Del Mar
Brides for a good cause
The perfect wedding dress doesn’t have to break the bank. Brides for a Cause isn’t just a bridal shop; it’s a nonprofit organization that collects and resells donated wedding dresses to support women-focused causes. Not only will you find affordable, gorgeous lace gowns, but you’ll also be helping to positively impact the lives of women across the country.
3064 University Street, North Park
Chic brides
Live out your Princess Diana bridal fantasy at Posh Brides. This boutique offers a stunning selection of wedding dresses and options for the mothers of the bride and bridesmaids, with space for up to 10 guests to join in on the experience. Who says you won’t find your own iconic ’80s-inspired gown with a dramatic 25-foot train?
580 Grand Avenue, Carlsbad
Prevue Formal and Bridal
A complete bridal shop that’s just for you? Absolutely. Prevue Formal and Bridal offers VIP appointments where only your crew is present, champagne, and exclusive access to the latest collections. With over 16,000 dresses to choose from, getting dressed with your friends is even more exciting.
5500 Grossmont Center Drive, La Mesa