Not to be outdone by other retailers like J. Crew and Anthropologie, Costco, of all places, has now gotten into the wedding business. But maybe not in the way you’d think.
The wholesale retailer has sold some hidden gems behind its doors before, like fine wines and designer jeans, and while some might think it is the perfect venue to showcase wedding bands or engagement rings, it will actually be designer wedding gowns that will be sold by the store.
The mega store will be teaming up with designer Kirstie Kelly for a four day trunk show at selected locations. The dresses, which range anywhere from $699 to $1,399, will be no means be the least expensive item in the store, but they will be around 40 percent less than the designer’s mainline collection, which can cost up to $4,000.
Kelly is well known for her Princess collection designs for Disney, which is inspired by seven of the different classic fairytale princesses.
Although the prices of the Costco collection have been drastically lowered, the designs don’t skip on quality. The dresses, which will be made in organza, taffeta, and satin will be embellished with lace, crystals, and pearls, but will also be an as is purchase, indicating that some tailoring may be needed.
Kelly is not the first bridal designer to get into the affordable retail game lately, Vera Wang created a line for David’s Bridal earlier this month, while the success of the J Crew’s bridal line prompted the retailer to open a bridal boutique in New York City last year.
The first thing most brides want to do after receiving that coveted diamond engagement ring, is to find the dress, and now Costco is bringing the boutique experience to the masses with appointments or walk ins welcome with on-hand consultants. And fortunately, you are not required to buy in Bulk.