Loaner Gowns FAQ: What Brides Need to Know
- jmajors
- 24 hours ago
- 3 min read
Finding your dream wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of your bridal journey but what happens if the gown you love isn’t available in your size or in-store yet? That’s where loaner gowns come in! At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, we want every bride to have the full “say-yes” experience, even when the sample you’re hoping to try isn’t on our floor.
Below, we’ve answered the most common questions about how loaner gowns work and what to expect.
What is a loaner gown?
A loaner gown is a sample temporarily borrowed from a designer or another boutique so that you can try on a specific style that isn’t currently available in-store. It’s a way for us to bring in the dress you’re dreaming of, without waiting months for a full production order.
Why would I request a loaner gown?
You might request a loaner gown if:
You saw a designer style on Instagram or the designer’s website that we don’t have in stock.
You want to see how a gown looks or feels in person before ordering.
You’re deciding between two similar gowns and need to try both to be sure.
Loaner gowns are especially helpful for brides on a timeline or those who live out of town and want to make the most of a single appointment.
Is there a cost for a loaner gown?
Most designers charge a loaner fee, typically ranging from $75 - $150, depending on the designer and shipping distance. At J. Major’s Bridal Boutique, we keep it simple, we charge a flat $75 loaner fee per gown. Even better, that amount is credited toward the purchase of any gown from any designer we carry. It’s our way of making sure your investment goes right back into finding “the one.”
How long does it take for a loaner gown to arrive?
Loaner gowns usually take 2 - 4 weeks to arrive, depending on designer availability. We’ll coordinate timing so it aligns with your appointment and keep you updated every step of the way.
Can I order the gown if I love it?
Absolutely! Once you’ve tried on your loaner gown and said “yes,” we’ll take your measurements and place your custom order directly with the designer. The gown will then be made specifically for you in your size, color, and any special customizations available.
Do all designers offer loaner gowns?
Not every designer offers this option, and not every gown is part of the loaner program. Many of our exclusive designers do including several of our most popular couture and boho lines. Our bridal stylists will help you check availability and handle the entire process with the designer.
When should I request a loaner gown?
If your wedding date is less than 8 - 10 months away, we recommend reaching out as soon as you know which gown you’d like to see. The sooner we request it, the better chance we have of securing the sample for your preferred appointment date.
Can I try more than one loaner gown?
Yes, depending on designer availability and timing, we can often arrange for multiple loaners in a single appointment. We’ll help you prioritize your top picks to make the most of your time in the boutique.
What if the designer can’t send the gown I want?
If a specific gown isn’t available for loan, our stylists can recommend similar styles from the same collection, often with the same silhouette, fabric, or detailing. Our goal is always to give you the closest possible experience to your dream gown.
How do I request a loaner gown at J. Major’s?
It’s easy! Just send us a message through our Contact page or call the boutique to share:
The designer name and style number of the gown
Your wedding date
Your preferred appointment window
Our team will take care of the rest and confirm details before your visit.
Final Thoughts
A loaner gown can make all the difference when you’re searching for “the one.” Whether you’re chasing a designer you’ve fallen in love with online or narrowing down your top choices, J. Major’s Bridal Boutique will help you create a personalized, stress-free experience from start to “I do.”
