We're often asked what is a trunk show or for an explanation of how bridal designer trunk shows work, and we're only too happy to oblige! Wedding dress shopping can be a confusing business at the best of times, so it's important that you get to grips with the lingo early on in the process. So let's see if we can tick this one off your list straight away!
What is a trunk show?
A trunk show is a special event at a bridal boutique, essentially it's a collaboration between a bridal designer and a boutique. The boutique invites a bridal designer to showcase their full collection of wedding dresses (or sometimes, multiple collections) for a day or a number of days. This provides brides-to-be with an opportunity to view and try on wedding dresses that are not normally available in the boutique, or even the country!
Why should I attend a bridal designer trunk show?
Most bridal boutiques only stock a few select styles from each bridal designer’s collection. For a trunk show, a bridal designer will bring most or all of the dresses from their collection with them (and sometimes dresses from previous collections or yet-to-be released collections!) to showcase to brides-to-be. Often, the designers themselves and/or members of their team will be in attendance to answer questions about the dresses, advise on styling and help you work through your choices. So, let's say, for example, you spot a wedding dress you love on Instagram, and find a local bridal boutique that stocks the designer, but they don't have a sample of that particular dress in stock. Our top piece of advice would be to find out if the boutique is hosting a trunk show featuring the designer's collection. This would give you the chance to see the dress up close, try it on, and find out if it really is the one!
How does a trunk show work?
In Ireland, trunk shows tend to run for two or more days, as the designer is often travelling from abroad. Trunk shows usually require you to book an appointment in advance, as demand can be high. An appointment at a trunk show will be similar to an appointment at a bridal boutique, in that you'll be given enough time to try on a couple of dresses.
Is there anything I need to know before I attend a trunk show?
Once you've booked your appointment, it's worth doing some research on the designer, to figure out which styles you're most interested in. The boutique should be able to tell you in advance if the dresses you've got your eye on will be included in the trunk show. And we highly recommend reading our guide to wedding dress shopping - it'll tell you exactly how to prep and what to bring.
How do I find out about trunk shows?
To find out about upcoming bridal trunk shows in Ireland, keep an eye on our Wedding Events Calendar, sign up to our newsletter, and make sure you're following us on Instagram and Facebook. If there’s a brand or designer you’re particularly interested in, it’s worth giving them a follow on Instagram or Facebook too, and the same goes for bridal boutiques that stock your favourite designers.
What's the difference between a trunk show and a sample sale?
A trunk show isn't a sale, per se, although sometimes discounts are offered. A sample sale, on the other hand, is when a wedding dress boutique sells on the sample dresses that they use in their showroom, usually at a sizeable discount. You'll find more information on those here.
Wondering where the best bridal boutiques in Ireland are? We've found them!
