Vera Wang is getting rid of their appointment fees and is ending their policy of charging brides-to-be to try on their gowns. The appointment fees have been dropped from all of their international stores, but it was controversy in China that sparked the change.
Early last week, it was revealed that customers who wanted to try on wedding gowns at Vera Wang’s Shanghai store had to pay 3,000 yuan, which amounts to $491 CAD. Included in the cost was a 90-minute fitting and afternoon tea with the help of a consultant.
After learning about the fees, there was a bit of an outcry on Chinese social media websites. Store workers say they charged the fees to make sure they only get shoppers who actually want to purchase a wedding dress, and not shoppers who just want to play dress-up. “We just wanted to make sure we were serving the right customers, and the [fee] is then redeemable off the purchase price of any gown,” the shop worker said.
While the policy was understandable, it did seem a bit much to ask just to try on dresses. If a bride can’t find a dress she likes, she loses out on almost $500, money most brides can’t afford to lose out on. But worry not, Vera Wang lovers. The brand has abolished all appointment fees in all of their bridal stores around the world.
“Upon careful investigation and review of the policies of our international operators, we will be abolishing appointment fees in all of our stores,” Vera Wang told WWD. “We wish for all Vera Wang customers to enjoy the same standard of excellence worldwide. Treating our customers in a fair and equitable way remains a priority. The store in Shanghai has only been open to private VIP preview appointments. The official opening to the public will take place on April 29.”
