Picking out the dress and accessories can be one of the most important parts of planning your wedding. There is certainly something to be said about new, modern designs, but there’s something that is just cooler about a vintage gown and jewelry. You do have to be careful when selecting a vintage dress, as you don’t want tears or stains showing on your wedding day, and the following places will have exactly what you need.
For Minnesota’s vintage brides, these stores and designers will have you looking divine. It’s a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life, and, in that vintage dress, necklace, bangles and veil, you will know that you look absolutely perfect.
Andrea’s Vintage Bridal
723 W. 26th St.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
(612) 716-8006
www.vintagebridal.biz
The premier vintage bridal shop. Andrea’s is a one-of-a-kind store for all of your wedding needs, from the important gown to the accentuating accessories. The store itself exudes that air of swanky cool, and you’ll feel “Mad Men” sexy as you plan your wedding look. There is even a poodle, named Pierre, that will greet you at the door. But when it comes down to it, you’re looking for the perfect dress. Andrea’s is guaranteed to have what you need.
Joynoelle Boutique and Atelier
312 W. 42nd St.
Minneapolis, MN 55409
(612) 209-7822
www.facebook.com/joynoelledesign
Customize your retro dress. Fine vintage materials and even finer craftsmanship will make your dress one of the most unique and memorable; a perfect match for that special day. Touting her collection as “wearable couture,” local designer Joy Teiken cuts, sews and accents each piece by hand, so you know that you can expect the same quality and attention to detail in your dress that you are putting into your wedding.
Via’s Vintage
2408 Hennepin Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55405
(612) 374-3649
www.viasvintage.com
Vintage wear has never been cooler, and the small selection of vintage gowns at this Uptown shop are some of the coolest. You’ll find a dress that is truly one of a kind, and everyone will be asking that question, “Where did you get it?” Tell them if you want, or keep the secret. The most important thing is that when you hear the words “You may now kiss the bride,” you know that you look both fabulous and edgy; perfect for the wedding photos and memories for years to come.
Related: Best Vintage Stores In Minnesota
Bethany Lorelle
(651) 269-8613
www.bethanylorelle.com
While this local designer doesn’t have a storefront, you’ll be missing out if you don’t browse her selection of handmade jewelry and bridal accessories. The retro touches that this local designer puts on bridal will make that dress shine, and you’ll be the envy of all of your bridesmaids (as if you weren’t already). Of course, the dress is the most important part, but your jewelry should not be left to the last minute. Take your time looking through each of Bethany Lorelle’s incredible pieces; it will add that little extra something to your wedding ensemble.
The Wedding Shoppe
1196 Grand Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55105
(651) 298-1144
www.weddingshoppeinc.com
One of the oldest stores on Grand Avenue provides thousands upon thousands of dresses for you to choose from; there’s no chance you won’t find the perfect dress here. For any style you want, a vintage art-deco look or that beautiful white dress with the lace sleeves Marilyn Monroe would have been proud of, this is the shop, er, shoppe, to visit. The family-run business provides some of the best, most patient service while you’re searching, so you’ll never feel rushed. It will be a relaxed and pleasant experience, just like the old days.
Related: Best Places To Host A Wedding Reception In Minnesota
Adrian Schramm is a resident Saint Paul writer with a passion for all things local. Through his work with Saint Paul Almanac and Minneapolis Examiner at Examiner.com, as well as in the kitchens of bars and restaurants around town, he has discovered what truly makes the Twin Cities tick.