We frequently get phone calls asking if we rent wedding gowns, which is a popular choice in some areas of Los Angeles, for example. It's a great idea for some brides who want a couture wedding gown but may have a more limited budget. When you rent a wedding gown you can often wear a $4000 designer wedding gown for as little as $1400.
The reason that plus size wedding dresses make poor rentals is a little bit complicated, but here it goes… Think about a size 4 bride. She's fairly proportionate between her bust, waist and hips. There's little variation in body shape between size 4 women, compared to plus size brides. Now think of a size 20 woman. When you have more curves, you have more options for body types, like apples, pears, hour glasses and triangles. So plus size brides can carry their weight in different places.
This variation in body types means that plus size brides are less likely to perfectly fit the size chart for their size. Which means plus size wedding gowns require more alterations. And usually when you rent a wedding dress, you can't do alterations for a better fit.
Having said that, if you're still in the market to rent your wedding dress, try calling IrisD bridal in Tempe, or SO Creative in Peoria. Both of these ladies rent wedding gowns. And if you hear of any others locally, please let me know!
