The hunt for an alternative wedding dress
For the bride-to-be with a taste for the non-traditional, the Albany area presents a few obstacles. The Capital Region is nothing if not traditional, especially when it comes to the contemporary tradition of finding a wedding dress.
So when AOA friend and rebellious bride Renée wanted my advice on where to find a dress for her upcoming nuptials, I had a significant challenge on my hands. The ceremony will be outdoors later this Spring, so she wants something on the shorter side. Also, she's hoping to wear, in her own words, "Kermit Green."
I know this is probably a surprise, but there is no abundance of Kermit-hued dresses at Crossgates (who knew?). She's already tried the usual suspects at Stuyvesant Plaza with no luck and now she's moving on to Saratoga. So, here are some good Spa City shopping bets...
Before getting to Saratoga, you might try John Patrick location on Broadway in Latham, although it's generally pretty casual and definitely pricey. It's the sort of place that I usually associate with cute tops and premium denim, but it can never hurt to look around.
Next try Violet's of Saratoga, another casual boutique on Broadway, but with a little more flair and a nice dress inventory . This one is dangerous because even if Renée doesn't find a wedding dress, she may find clothes for just about everything else.
The final and probably best bet is The Shoppe, also on Broadway. The color Renée is going for might be a bit of an issue, but The Shoppe is definitely a go-to for an event. I'm pretty sure her wedding qualifies as such.
If those boutiques don't have what she's hoping for, Renée may want to try Immortal Beloved. Yes, I know it's a bit on the traditional side but they have a very nice selection of unique dresses. To get that vibrant, springy green, she'll probably have to keep to the bridesmaid area, though.
Renée, we're looking forward to seeing what you find!
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Comments
I could be wrong, but I believe the Saratoga John Patrick store closed several years ago.
... said Kristi on Apr 9, 2008 at 11:56 AM | link
And so it has. We just checked with the store in Latham -- the Saratoga location closed last March. Thanks for setting us straight!
... said Greg on Apr 9, 2008 at 12:21 PM | link
I have to plug My Favorite Things:
http://mftdesignstudio.com/
Chris produces some of the most beautiful flower designs in the area. Once you see his work, you'll plan your wedding around the flowers, not around the bridesmaid dresses and linens.
... said Abby on Apr 9, 2008 at 3:20 PM | link
Another alternative might be to try Metropolis Vintage on Fuller Road in Albany. I've only been in there once and keep saying I need to go back.
Gorgeous dresses - all incredibly unique and maybe something in the color she's looking for. By far the best vintage clothing collection in the area. Plus, the woman who runs the shop is so sweet and was incredibly helpful.
I believe the store has a website. Good luck Renee!
... said Caitlin on Apr 9, 2008 at 4:16 PM | link
hot dog! thanks everyone! i will report back with my results soon. i am now open to any color, except purple.
... said renee on Apr 9, 2008 at 5:34 PM | link
ebay is a great source for this type of thing, and even if you have to pay for alterations locally its still extremely inexpensive
... said elizabeth on Apr 10, 2008 at 12:50 PM | link