Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.com
I recently read an article in the Chicago Tribune (November 24, 2010) where they announced that Nordstrom was opening one of 14 new bridal salons in their Michigan Avenue store in Chicago. The article stated, "the Seattle-based specialty department store is stepping into the bridal business for the first time in the company's 109-year history." I found this an interesting statement since the Paper Passionista purchased my bridal gown (for what I fondly refer to as my "practice" marriage) at the flag-ship store of Nordstrom in downtown Seattle in 1977. They had a full-on gown salon then, where I purchased the gown, the veil, the shoes, etc.. Nordstrom later discontinued their offering of bridal gowns, and as the rumor mill flies it was said they discontinued selling gowns because their "no-questions asked" return policy was killing them when it came to people wanting to return bridal gowns.
Who knows if this was really the reason, or if it was because having weddings fell out of favor in the late 60's through 70's as "flower children" chose to express their commitment and undying love by marrying in a field with bare feet, a flounced gingham homemade creation or a Gunne Sax by Jessica McClintock muslin dress with a ring of daisies in their hair.
"Hillary & Bill", October 11, 1975 Jessica McClintock dress
Whatever the reason for why the gown salon disappeared from Nordstrom, I am thrilled they are coming back into the bridal world. It sounds like they're offering a less traditional gown with this go-round, but one can always rest assured their gowns will be fashion forward, quality, and will come with the outstanding customer service for which any Nordstrom shopping experience is known, and they even say these gowns will be "affordable"!
The Seattle Nordstrom "Wedding Suite" opens this Friday, January 7, located on the second floor. The bridal gown services will be by appointment only so it's a good idea to call one of the wedding stylists at 206-628-1730 and reserve your spot. At the same time you can ask about the Wedding Suite Open House which is scheduled for Saturday, January 15, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM . RSVP to this event
According to the Chicago Tribune article, "Nordstrom plans to carry wedding-gown collections from Milly, Notte by Marchesa, Sue Wong, David Meister, Nicole Miller and Tadashi. The boutique also carries reception dresses, bridesmaid dresses, shoes, headpieces, jewelry and foundations."
The remaining stores on tap to get a bridal salon, besides Seattle, are in Scottsdale, Ariz.; Canoga Park, San Francisco and San Jose, Calif.; Coral Gables, Fla.; Paramus, N.J.; Garden City, N.Y.; Dallas; Houston; McLean, Va.; and Oak Brook, Ill., according to an article in the Seattle Times on Dec. 1, 2010.
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