Kleinfeld Bridal

Kleinfeld Bridal is a salon in Chelsea, Manhattan, outside the East End, and we list it as worth the trip. The site says it has 30,000 square feet of gowns, more than 200 staff and over 70 years in business.

How they work

Appointments are required and last 90 minutes, with up to 3 guests. The salon suggests booking 2 to 3 weeks ahead. A card is needed to book, and the amount is applied to a purchase made within 3 months of the appointment. Six 3 hour VIP appointments are listed from $250 to $1,000, for 5 to 15 guests depending on the option, and VIP fees are not applied to a purchase. Designers include Pnina Tornai, Martina Liana, Justin Alexander, Maggie Sottero, Hayley Paige, Rivini, Anne Barge and Viktor and Rolf, plus labels sold only at Kleinfeld. A 65% deposit is due when you order, and all sales are final. Alterations are done in house by a team of more than 100. One seamstress handles your gown, with about three fittings over the 2 to 3 months before the wedding.

Who it suits

Couples who want a large range of designers in one place and do not mind a day in the city, plus return trips for fittings. It is not for couples who want to shop close to home on the East End.

Good to know

• Cancelling with less than 48 hours notice costs $100.
• The salon also has a menswear showroom and a resale site for pre-owned gowns.
• Twice yearly sample sales need their own appointment.