How to Find the Perfect Wedding Dress in Pittsburgh

October 9, 2023

Natalia Baqueiro

Pittsburgh Locations, Weddings

Pittsburgh Wedding Brides standing in Lawrenceville in their wedding Gowns

Are you Getting Married in Pittsburgh?

Finding the perfect wedding dress in Pittsburgh is such a personal journey. Each bride carefully chooses a style that reflects her personality and vision for her big day.

Gone are the days when a white gown symbolized old traditions. Today, wedding dresses are all about showcasing your unique style, empowering the woman you are, and fitting the vibe of your wedding.

Whether you’re planning an intimate wedding or a grand celebration, your options are endless. You might go for a sleek gown, a dramatic train, or even a chic pantsuit or bodysuit for a modern twist. Your wedding outfit should make you feel incredible and leave you saying, “This is the one!”

Your wedding day celebrates love and romance, but let’s be real—the dress is a big part of the magic!

Bride in her wedding gown in Lawrenceville Pittsburgh

Wedding Dress Trends in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh brides are embracing diverse trends. In 2025, popular styles include off-the-shoulder gowns, corset bodices, square necklines, and vintage-inspired designs.

With four seasons, Pittsburgh lets you customize your dress to the season, like pairing a winter gown with a cozy white coat for a snowy wedding.

Remember, there’s no right dress—only the right one for you.

Forget trends if they’re not your style and choose something that feels authentic to you.

Brides in her wedding gowns in Lawrenceville Pittsburgh

Match Your Dress to Your Wedding

Think about your wedding venue and setting before dress shopping. Are you planning a chic city wedding, a barn celebration, or an adventurous elopement? Your dress should match the vibe, scenery, and even the weather.

For a summer wedding, go for something lightweight and breathable. For a winter wonderland, opt for warm layers or a dramatic look with sleeves.

In Pittsburgh, I photograph everything from barn and chic winery weddings, by Lake Erie, in the Mountains, and in the city, big fairytale extravaganzas.

Even low-key elopements in the city followed by dinner and drinks. Before you start visiting wedding gown boutiques in Pittsburgh, spend some time thinking about the type of wedding you’re planning and the kind of dress that would work best for that environment.

Sure, it’s all about style. But don’t forget about the practicalities.

A summer adventure elopement in the outback, for example, is going to be hot! You’ll want a dress that isn’t too heavy, you can move around in and don’t mind if it picks up a few tears and a heavy fringing of our iconic red dust.

Detail of wedding gown

Define Your Personal Style

Spend time exploring dress styles. Pinterest and bridal magazines are great for inspiration. Whether you love minimalist, glam, vintage, or boho-chic looks, save ideas to share with bridal consultants.

I love working with Blanc de Blanc brides because they radiate confidence and joy in their gowns. When you feel amazing in your dress, it shows in your wedding photos!

Bride and Groom in black wedding attire at Pump House Wedding

Find the Right Bridal Shop

Pittsburgh has a mix of large bridal stores and boutique shops in neighborhoods like Lawrenceville, Mount Washington, and Dormont. While larger stores offer variety, boutique shops provide a more personalized experience.

One of my favorites is Gemma Bridal on Liberty Street. Owner Emma and her team are amazing at helping brides find “the one.” Emma says, “Not everyone has an ‘aha’ moment. Ask yourself: Which gown made you smile the most? Which one can you picture walking down the aisle in? That’s your dress!”

Do some research, visit a few shops, and choose one that makes you feel welcome and supported. Bridal consultants can guide you, but trust your instincts when making the final decision.

Another Bridal Boutique, which is an all-time favorites of mine is Blanc de Blanc.

Plan Ahead

Start shopping 12-16 months before your wedding to account for delays and alterations. Many dresses are made overseas, and fittings can take weeks.

Planning ahead ensures your dream dress arrives on time.

Bride and Groom after eloping in Pittsburgh

Trust Your Gut

When you find the one, you’ll know. Bring your mom or best friend for second opinions, but remember: it’s your day.

Pick a dress that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful.

Wedding dress shopping is such a fun part of planning your day.

If you’re wondering how your dress will complement your wedding photos, I’d love to help! Your dress should feel as special and unique as you are.

Bride and Groom Running in Pittsburgh Downtown after elopement in the Allegheny County Courthouse

If you’re looking for unique Engagement Photo Ideas, check out this blog post where we did their photos at the Carnegie Museum of Art.

For Elopement Inspiration, check out this Allegheny County Courthouse Elopement.

I can’t wait to hear about you, your story and your vision. Contact me as soon as possible to ensure I have your date available. Let’s create art together!

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