Bridal shops across the United States, including in East Tennessee, are feeling the effects of the tariffs on Chinese imports announced earlier this year by President Trump. As most wedding dresses are manufactured in China, the recent 20% tariff, followed by an additional 34% tariff, has led to rising costs for both wholesale wedding dresses and fabrics. This price increase is affecting bridal shops’ bottom lines, and some are having to adjust their pricing strategies to cope with the changes.
The Impact on Bridal Shops
Diane D’Angelo, owner of D’Angelo Couture Bridal in Powell, Tennessee, designs her own dresses, which are then made overseas. She shared how her business has been impacted by the tariffs, noting that the increasing prices are due to the higher costs of both dresses and fabrics, most of which are sourced from China. D’Angelo explained that while she used to manufacture in the U.S., the competitive pricing from overseas suppliers forced her to move production abroad.
To help manage the costs, D’Angelo plans to absorb the additional expenses herself rather than passing them on to her customers. “I feel like that’s just going to be the cost of doing business at this time until things get straightened out,” she said, adding that she doesn’t want to increase prices for brides during an already expensive time.
Rising Prices and Rental Options
Other bridal shops in the region, however, are preparing for price hikes. Cristina Grecu, who owns a showroom in Gatlinburg, is considering raising her prices slightly. She is also offering brides the option to rent wedding dresses, a more affordable alternative for some couples. “I’m planning to increase a little bit the prices, but at the same time I’m offering, if they want something different, the possibility to customize a dress if they don’t want to purchase it and rental as well,” Grecu explained.
With the price increase likely affecting many bridal stores, D’Angelo advises brides to be cautious and to stay local. She suggests that couples stick to brick-and-mortar stores and take advantage of sales, as there will be more scams in the market as a result of the tariff-driven price surge. “Shop local, support the stores that are supporting you,” she added.
Looking Ahead: Potential for More Price Increases
As the trade war with China continues to evolve, the situation for bridal shops could worsen. President Trump has already hinted at further tariffs on Chinese goods, which would bring the total tariff to 104% if implemented. This increase could cause even higher wedding dress prices, prompting bridal shops to raise prices further or adjust their business models.
For brides planning their weddings, the message is clear: buy sooner rather than later to avoid the potential for even higher costs. D’Angelo, along with other bridal shop owners, recommends brides act quickly before additional tariffs push prices even higher.
In the face of these challenges, bridal shops are adapting, offering rental options and creative solutions to help brides manage the rising costs. However, the future remains uncertain, and the upcoming weeks and months will likely determine the full impact of these tariffs on wedding dress pricing.
