London is my favorite city. It has it all: the gloomy, cozy weather, the beautiful architecture, the world-renowned street fashion, and, of course, the origin home of the Bridal Musings blog. The city is never dull.
I was a bridal stylist for many years and knew the daunting task of finding the perfect wedding dress. It can be overwhelming to choose which bridal salons to visit in London, given the sheer size of the city and the vast array of choices available. I would have you see them all, but I understand you have limited time and patience.
This list of shops I have hand-selected for you will help you avoid stress and fatigue when choosing a dress. There are shops for every bride’s style. Be prepared to be pampered at these top-tier shops!
For the Couture Bride
The Wedding Gallery Here at Bridal Musings, we love The Wedding Gallery. This incredible space, known as the “world’s first bridal department store,” was created as a one-stop shop for all your wedding planning requirements. The Wedding Gallery houses bridal brands like Elie Saab and Oscar De La Renta. This is the place to go if you want a statement gown that will put celebrities on red carpets to shame! You can read more about their other services in our founder Elizabeth’s review.
Jenny Packham- We always start our annual rounds by stopping at Jenny Packham. Jenny Packham is a household name in bridal fashion. Her embellished designs have lasted through the decades and continue to wow brides and us in the industry with their intricate beading. Jenny’s designs are always flattering and have a timeless elegance. Jenny is London in all its glory but also ultra-modern and nostalgic.
Phillipa Lepley: Have you scoured bridal sites and loved bits and pieces from each gown but can’t find what you want? You wish you had the time to make your gown. Phillipa Lepley is here to help. Work with this fantastic designer to create the dress of dreams. You can personalize your dress in her Parisian-style boutique, from the fit to the feel to the embellishment, from beginning to end!
The Modern Bride
Halfpenny London- Halfpenny London caters to brides who want a modern, fresh look while maintaining a timeless feel. Kate Halfpenny’s “Brit cool” collection of gowns and separates showcases a feminine, tailored look. This intimate salon, with its natural light and pink and yellow couches, will give you the attention you deserve.
Suzanne Neville- You’ll feel well taken care of when you step into the doors of Suzanne Neville. This designer is a regular in bridal magazines and knows how to design a clean, structured gown highlighting your features. All of her dresses were designed and made in Britain. This will make you feel even more confident about your choice!
The Mews Bridal- Are you looking for that special “je ne sait quoi”? Look no further. This boutique, founded by a mother and daughter, only stocks French designers like Rime Adodaky, Laure De Sagazan, Delphine Godart, Margaux Tardits, and Isabella Boutin. This is the place for you if the ethereal style of the Provencal region is your thing.
For the Indie Bride
As its name suggests, Grace Loves Lace The London showroom for this Australian brand is a paradise for lace lovers. This boho-style boutique is filled with light, airy fabrics and velvet pillows. It’s the ideal place to shop for the right (and comfortable!) gown that suits your style. Grace Loves Lace is known for its bold lace patterns, fun sleeves, and unique necklines. Their dresses and shop are always full of surprises.
Heart Aflutter Heart Aflutter’s private studio on the second floor is a place of bohemian and untraditional bridal gowns. You can try on styles and designers around the globe, including Vagabond Sarah Seven and Rolling in Roses. They have the best stylists in the industry, and they strive to build personal relationships with brides so that they can find the perfect dress. Former editor Claire McGowan shares her first-hand experience of Heart Aflutter. This is what we want for every bride!
The Budget Bride
Bridal Do Good: I love an excellent bridal deal, but I’m more interested in a salon that gives back to the community. Brides Do Good donates two-thirds of their profits to charity programs that aim to protect the futures and education of millions of young children at risk of marriage.
Angelica Bridal This charming little shop is ideal for brides who don’t want to compromise style or budget. You’ll look and feel like a million bucks with unique designers such as Madi Lane. Essence of Australia. Watters. Justin Alexander.
Not in London? Are you planning a girls’ trip to shop for wedding dresses abroad? We’ve got you covered! Our top ten New York, Los Angeles, and Pacific Northwest bridal shops are listed below!