Vera Wang ends try-on dress charges

OHMYGOSSIP — Vera Wang has stopped appointment fees at all of the label’s international bridal stores after the charges prompted widespread criticism in China.

On Monday, it was revealed that customers at the brand’s Shanghai bridal flagship were required to pay 3,000 yuan (£317), to try on wedding gowns. The cost included a 90-minute fitting session and afternoon tea with a consultant. The news sparked huge debate on Chinese Twitter equivalent, Sina Weibo.

“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.”

Before the charges were abolished, a staff member at the Shanghai Vera Wang store argued that the fee was to deter “a lot of high school and college students” who weren’t “serious about buying a wedding dress”.

“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,” said the shop worker.