HERE COME THE BRIDES : RESALE : Something Old, Something Used

For her recent marriage to anchor John Tesh actress Connie Selleca wore a gown reported to have cost $30,000. Few brides, however, would or could choose a dress that costs as much, say, as a new Buick.

Far kinder, gentler price tags can be found at 2nd Look Bridal and Formal, a Tustin-area resale shop that specializes in wedding apparel. Gowns are priced from $199 to $1,895, a savings of 30% to 50% off the original prices.

All of the gowns at 2nd Look were originally purchased by brides. Most were worn once, but some are brand-new, brought in by brides who never quite made it to the altar. Only contemporary wedding garments that are cleaned, pressed and free of rips or stains are accepted on consignment. They are kept in the store 90 days.

Percentages paid to consignees vary, depending on the condition, age and seasonal suitability. Dresses not picked up after the 90-day period are donated to charitable organizations.

Owner Bobbi Lane has about 250 bridal gowns in stock, ranging from Size 3 to 20. There are trains of all lengths, gowns in pink, ivory or white. Pre-worn veils, shoes, purses and slips are also available for sale, as are dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls and even mother-of-the bride. The store also stocks rental jewelry for special occasions.

Dress rentals are also available. Entire bridesmaid ensembles are $59.95 and include a gown, floral comb and slip. Though it isn’t her main business, Lane occasionally rents dresses to brides.

“If she really can’t find a dress in her price range, and the consignee consents to a rental, we will try to help any bride out,” Lane says.

Affordability isn’t the only benefit to shopping at Lane’s boutique. Most bridal stores and departments stock only samples; a customer must wait anywhere from two weeks to four months for the dress to arrive.

“We get a lot of last-minute brides who come in here a week before the wedding looking for a dress,” she says.