It’s insane how I got all 4 of my gowns (YES including shoes 👠 & shipping cost) for under $650 total and honestly… I’m still a little shocked 😳 (so were everyone). If you’re planning a wedding in Singapore and feeling the pressure of bridal boutique pricing, this is your sign to consider getting them from Taobao 👀
Why Taobao?
1. Affordability
Why rent when you can own for less? Taobao gowns are often much cheaper than rental packages, offering better value without return hassles or damage fees.
2. Variety of Designs
Taobao offers a much wider range of wedding gown styles than most local boutiques. If you have a specific design in mind, you can upload an image to its search function and are likely to find something similar or even an exact match.
3. Convenience
Instead of travelling from shop to shop, you can browse countless styles from your phone!
So here’s the 4 outfits I got (huge splurge on the last one cause it was too nice):
I’ve attached the links of the items on the images for you if you’re interested in any it 😊
How to use the links:
1.Click on Item
2.Right-click On Item Name
3. Select “Copy Link Address”
4.Open Taobao APP
5.Paste the link in the search bar
(If you’re on mobile, you’d have to click on the item name then copy the URL before it redirects for you to login)
💡 Final Thoughts
Was the experience perfect? Not 100%, but I believe it wouldn’t have been even if I were to rent a gown from a studio. Here are the points you’d need to take note if you purchase your own gowns (whether from Taobao or elsewhere):
🚗 1. Transporting all your gowns
If you’re changing outfits for different segments of your wedding, you’ll need to physically bring everything with you. In my case, I stayed overnight at the hotel before the wedding, so I had to bring all 4 gowns + shoes + accessories in one go 😅 If your gowns are bulky (like big skirts or heavy fabrics), do consider extra luggage space/foldable wagon.
👗 2. You WILL need to steam/iron your gowns
Even if your gowns arrive in good condition, they’ll definitely need some prep before wearing. For me, I only had to steam my first gown, but it still required effort the night before.
I bought a $32 portable steam iron, and honestly it was a lifesaver. I did a quick steam session in the hotel room the night before my wedding since I started the day there instead of home.
💡 Tip:
• Watch steaming tutorials (dos & don’ts) and test your steamer beforehand (don’t use it for the first time on wedding eve 😭)
• Hang gowns immediately after unpacking to reduce wrinkles
• Bring a mini steamer if you have multiple outfit changes
Was it worth it? Absolutely. If you’re a bride-on-a-budget (or just love a good deal), Taobao is honestly worth exploring 💕
