By Michelle Reese

Even before the coronavirus pandemic changed the world of retail, La Belle Mariée Co-Owner Gabrielle Devine had an idea in mind to help brides begin the process of gown shopping from home. According to Gabrielle, “Almost all of our brides come into the boutique with photos of gowns they like, but they have no idea how these will actually look on them. My idea was to take this to the next level and help brides narrow their search for the perfect gown.”

While Gabrielle came up with the idea about a year ago, the website, which she named Gownzie, didn't launch until this past spring. It was perfect timing since the popular Langhorne boutique was temporarily closed as a result of the COVID-19 shutdown. Using Gownzie, brides could begin searching for their dream dress from the comfort of their home. Now that the boutique has reopened, the site proves to still be a useful tool. Gabrielle explained, “By virtually trying on gowns from our favorite designers, brides will be able to see which silhouettes look best on them, what color is right for their skin tone, and what neckline works best for them. The other benefit from Gownzie is that brides will be able to see where they can purchase these gowns, which is our boutique La Belle Mariée Bridal!”

How to Use the App

To use the free app, upload full-length photos of yourself (nude colored shapewear is suggested for the most realistic experience) from the front and back. (FYI: The photos are not uploaded to a server, so you can trust that no one will access your photos but you.) Then, you can peruse over 100 designer gowns in various price points and styles. As of right now, the app showcases about 35% of the boutique's current inventory, with more to come soon! The gowns available on the site are some of the La Belle Mariée Team's favorites. They also represent a wide variety of styles, silhouettes and necklines. If you already have an idea of what you're looking for, you can use the search box to search by name, designer, or tags such as a-line, pockets, or lace. When you see something you like, you can virtually “try it on” using the images of yourself that you uploaded. You can even download your favorites.

Videos of Gownzie in Action

 

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How to upload your photo! Gownzie.com

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Gownzie.com let’s you virtually try on wedding gowns! Find your perfect style today!

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A Preview Before The Full Experience

Nothing will compare with the full experience of trying on a gown in person … especially when the boutique is as beautiful as La Belle Mariée. But using Gownzie can give you that little preview at home to make your first visit a little easier. Gabrielle explained to us, “Wedding dress shopping can be overwhelming! A lot of brides have no idea what kind of style they want. Gownzie helps them narrow down the styles they look best in! When they go shopping in store they can show their consultant their favorite dresses and it can actually help the consultant as well.” Do you prefer strapless, straps, v-neck, boatneck, cap-sleeve, or long sleeves? Do you look best in a fit and flare, trumpet, mermaid, sheath, a-line, or a ballgown? Gownzie can help you pinpoint the answers to those questions and more. Plus, Gabrielle told us that brides are loving that they can see the front and back of each gown!

Planning a wedding might look a bit different these days, but finding the dress of your dreams will still be an unforgettable experience. With Gownzie, you can start the fun of dress shopping at home … and then continue the experience with an easier, more focused in-person visit.

La Belle Mariée is now open for appointments, with new health and safety policies in place. For more information about your visit and to request an appointment, click HERE. To try on gowns virtually using Gownzie, click HERE.

La Belle Mariée Bridal is located at:
14 Summit Square Shopping Center in Langhorne.
To request an appointment, call 215-860-6300 or complete the online form.
La Belle Mariée Bridal is our 2020 Happening List Winner for Best Bridal Boutique.
Read our interview with them as they reflect on 5 years in the business at this link.

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