Vera Wang - Chicago, IL Review

Background
Last year, when one of my best friends was getting married, we made a day out of bridal dress shopping. We made our way up and down Oak Street in Chicago-- she was visiting from San Fran. We went to Barneys (which houses Vera Wang), The Ultimate Bride and one other boutique shop. In the past, I have also gone to Macy's Bridal, Neiman Marcus Bridal and House of Brides. I have to say, Vera Wang was a stand out experience. They were exceptional.

What I liked about Vera Wang
The sales people on Oak Street tend to be on the snotty side. The Ultimate Bride is the biggest offender in my mind. They have shown attitude every time I have gone in there! (not to mention that they always bring out the most expensive dresses even if they are outside of your price range). You basically tell them what you want and then they go off and find you dresses. (despite me disliking them, they were the only place in Chicago that had the dress I wanted. Shucks! My dress had to come from there)

Vera Wang was (and is) a VERY different experience. They have all of their dresses out on display. Such bliss. You can scan the styles and pick out the ones you want to try. You also have the run of the salon. They only take one appointment at a time which allows for the entire focus to be on you (isnt that the way it should be for any bride?)

The staff at Vera Wang was also outstanding! They were kind, gracious and had excellent taste. They were incredibly patient. They let you try on every dress in the store if you desire. I too appreciated that they informed us about double discount days and even told us how we could get the dress for the cheapest possible rate (without asking!)

Does Vera Wang have any negatives?
The only downside (if I had to pick one or two), is that you cant touch a Vera Wang dress for under $2,500. Afterall, it is Vera Wang- do you get anyone more famous for wedding dresses?

In addition, they are clearly the only designer offered in the store. So, you can only buy Vera Wang there. No biggie, but if you have your heart set on another designer, you clearly can not shop here.

My bottom line
Overall, everything about Vera Wang was outstanding. The people were outstanding, the dresses were outstanding and my friend looked amazing! The dress was made for her.

If I were wedding dress shopping again, I would walk down Oak Street, walk by the Ultimate Bride and walk straight down to Barneys. A+. It is worth every penny. And, when you see the photos, you will understand why.