Wedding dresses in Italy cost from 1,000 to 20,000 euros. A good dress can be purchased starting at 2,000 euros. Cheaper options in Italy are limited to the “Hello, wild ’90s!” model or a dress made in China.
If you are looking for a wedding dress from a well-known Italian brand, then expect a budget of from 5,000 to 20,000 euros.
— Why is it so expensive?
Taxes. Businesses in Italy pay up to 70% of their profits to the state.
Business Model. Italians are conservative; they find it hard to adopt new technologies and shift to modern management schemes. Family-owned businesses are still valued here, with a love for manual labor and a fierce protection of their right to relax after work. 😉
How much can you save with tax free in Italy?
You can get back a maximum of 22% on amounts starting from 155 euros in one store. 22% is the value-added tax (IVA) in Italy.
Why only a maximum of 22%? Because small stores do not sign direct contracts, but rather agreements with intermediaries, so at customs you might only get back 11–17% instead of 22%.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Wedding Dress in Italy
Let’s start with the cons.
Price. In addition to the cost of the wedding dress, you should also consider expenses for accessories — such as the veil, shoes, jewelry, and other little items that complete your wedding look. For example, the cost of a veil in Italy starts from 100 up to 1,000 euros. However, what is truly advantageous to purchase in Italy is the wedding shoes. But you already know that without me. 😉
Timing. There are few ready-made dresses available for sale in Italy. Most likely, the selected model will be custom-made to your measurements. This means there will be a fitting and a waiting period for the order.
What are the advantages?
Quality. “Made in Italy” — that is a brand in itself. A brand that speaks of high-quality materials, impeccable tailoring, attention to detail, packaging, and, ultimately, to the Client.
Atmosphere. You can be 100% sure — your dress will be crafted with soul! The signora who makes wedding dresses wakes up in a good mood thanks to the Italian sun. On her way to work, she is greeted by neighbors, and the barista at the local café, where she enjoys her energizing espresso with a sweet cornetto, smiles at her. While at work, she chatters happily with her colleague and leaves at exactly 18:00 to prepare dinner for her large family. She is a happy woman. And it is exactly that energy that your wedding dress will carry.
A few final tips.
If you decide to buy a wedding dress in Italy, don’t forget to:
- Arrange a meeting with the bridal salon at least a week in advance. It’s better to call (traditionally, Italians do not like to answer emails).
- Ensure that the store offers tax free.
- In some Italian salons, dress alterations, dress delivery, and even a storage cover may be charged separately. Clarify these points in advance.
- Document the agreed deadlines in the contract (if you opt for a custom-made wedding dress).
- And, of course, don’t forget to negotiate. Negotiate for a long time if needed. 😉
Where in Italy can you buy a wedding dress?
Here are some websites where you can find the latest collections:
If you want to find “the one dress” in which you will look dazzling and luxurious on your own wedding day, our consultant in Italy will help you with the selection and coordination with bridal salons. The consultant will take care of all organizational issues, so that you can simply enjoy the thrilling and pleasant moments of finding the perfect dress for your celebration.
Why Choose WowItaly Weddings?
Our portfolio speaks for itself. Couples who have entrusted us with the organization and coordination of their weddings recommend us to their friends and return to us for other events.
We have been organizing weddings in Italy for 7 years, we have a large network of contractors, and we even know how to persuade them! Even during the high season, when they are extremely busy and turn everyone down. 😉
Submit your inquiry in any convenient way and receive a free consultation on organizing your wedding in Italy, as well as our insider’s cheat sheet for brides.
