1. Follow your favourite designers on social media. Most will announce their upcoming sample sale dates via their social channels so it’s the best way to keep up to date with what’s going on.
Research what you want before you go. Sample sales can be a bit hectic and often work best if you know what dress you’re interested in. They’re not usually the best place to try on gowns for the first time.

2. Go to the sale when you’re prepared to buy. Sample sales are places for quick decisions – and you don’t want your dream dress to get snapped up by another bride while you’re pondering!

3. When a sale is announced, get in there quickly if the designer is operating on an appointment-only basis. It’s often worth an early start or a day off work to get a good slot.

4.Know what the deal is by way of payment and alterations before you go. Do you have to pay in full straight away? Will the boutique arrange for your alterations? Do you have to take the dress away with you on the day? Check everything out before you head to the sale.

5. Be aware of what can and can’t be dry cleaned out of certain fabrics (for example – feathers can’t be dry cleaned), and whether any marks on the dress make it worth the discount. Small marks might be easy to remove, but a fake tan or foundation stain from a previous bride trying the dress on probably won’t be.

*See if you can grab a bargain dress Off The Rack at London Brides here.

top tips

sample sale

wedding dress