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Because so many couples get engaged over the holidays, 5280 decided to kick off the New Year with some bridal inspiration. January’s “Find Your Bliss” previews our favorite wedding gown trends. Still feeling a bit overwhelmed—or even more unsure of what you want after looking at all those lovely dresses? Here, a handy guide to Denver’s bridal boutiques to help you find the (other) one.
Boutique: Felicé
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Ambience: The new Felicé (the shop recently relocated around the corner from its original Steele Street location) is more spacious and more refined. I’m particularly fond of the spacious viewing area for brides-to-be and their parties. Accessories such as beaded belts, sashes, headbands, and headpieces are all available in the dressing room to make it easy for brides to get a feel for their full wedding day look.
On the Floor: Big names include Ines Di Santo’s sculpted, feminine gowns; dramatic but elegant dresses by Alvina Valenta; and intricate, hand-detailed pieces from Christos by Amsale.
Price Point: $850 to $12,000
3201 E. Second Ave., 303-388-7637
Boutique: Little White Dress Bridal Shop
Ambience: An update on the traditional bridal salon, LWD’s romantic atmosphere is accented with deep red walls and oversized mirrors. The generous seating areas allow multiple brides and their entourages to be in the store at the same time without bumping into each other.
On the Floor: Brides will find luxe, contemporary interpretations of classic gown shapes and styles from leading designers including Anne Barge, Liancarlo, and Claire Pettibone.
Price Point: $1,500 to $7,800
3420 W. 32nd Ave., 303-814-8972
Boutique: Bea’s Bridal Nook
Ambience: This traditional salon in Cherry Creek North has been a Denver mainstay since 1971. Don’t be disappointed when you walk into the cozy space; only a sampling of what the boutique carries is on display. Most gowns are kept in the back and are brought out after the staff gets a better feel for the bride’s style preferences.
On the Floor: On-trend fashion gowns by Barcelona’s Pronovias, contemporary feminine designs by Canadian line Paloma Blanca, and, for curvy ladies, shaped and fitted dresses by Callista.
Price Point: $900 to $3,000
2800 E. Sixth Ave., 303-333-4588
Boutique: Anna Bé
Ambience: Owners Anna Walsh and Breanna Doll opened this LoHi retailer in 2006 after their own less-than-stellar bridal shopping experiences. The glamorous, modern store balances high-end dresses with a relaxed attitude.
On the Floor: Look for gowns from fashion’s elite, including Monique Lhuilier, Lela Rose, and Carolina Herrera, as well as up-and-coming designers such as Tara LaTour, known for her ethereal dresses and unique fabric treatments. Bonus: Fuss-free brides should check out Anna Bé’s younger sibling, A & Bé (1955 W. 35thAve., 720-627-5760); prices top out at $3,000, and the selection includes everything from gowns to mix-and-match separates.
Price Point: $2,000 to $8,000
1575 Boulder St., 720-855-1111
Boutique: Blue Bridal Boutique
Ambience: This contemporary store (now with two locations) is all about keeping both its gowns and setting approachable.
On the Floor: Find a wide range of well-priced dresses by major labels such as WTOO By Watters and La Sposa. I like the feminine creations by Hayley Paige.
Price Point: $875 to $5,000
Denver Pavilions, 303-446-2583; and 399 Perry St., Suite 100, Castle Rock, 303-660-1236
Boutique: Emma & Grace Bridal Studio
Ambience: Emma & Grace may have been started by two ex-Priscilla of Boston pros (the high-end boutique known for making Grace Kelly’s wedding dress), but don’t expect that kind of traditional look here. The loft-like, airy space and RiNo locale make E&G a go-to for any urbanite in search of a unique, on-trend gown.
On the Floor: Standouts include the romantic designs of Sareh Nouri; modern couture gowns by Australia’s Suzanne Harward; and boho-chic dresses from Barcelona’s YolanCris. If your fairy-tale dress is one you dreamed up, make an appointment with co-owner and in-house custom designer Mayra Moreno.
Price Point: $1,800 to $9,000
1320 27th St., Suite B, 720-383-8011
Follow fashion editor Georgia Benjou on Twitter at @gabenjou & Pinterest at /gabenjou.