Shopping for evening gowns online can be exciting—especially when exploring independent fashion designers and boutiques. These brands often offer stunning, one-of-a-kind gowns that you won’t find in department stores. But how can you make sure you’re investing in the real deal and not a glitzy replica?

Before you buy that amazing gown, here are five key things to check when buying from an independent online store.

Verify the Site’s Trustworthiness

When buying evening gowns online, the first step is to make sure the site is trustworthy. Small or independent fashion sites don’t always have the brand recognition of the big names, so be sure to do your research.

Things to look out for:

Verified customer reviews (on platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews)

Active social media accounts with real followers and tagged content

Contact information, not just a generic email address

Read product descriptions carefully

Product listings should include details about:

Fabric content (e.g., silk, satin, chiffon, tencel)

Construction details (e.g., fully lined, hand-sewn beads, whalebone)

Care instructions (dry clean, hand wash, etc.)

Sizing guide and measurements

If product descriptions are vague, copy-pasted, or missing entirely, it’s a sign that the site may not be selling real designer fashion.

Sizing varies greatly between independent fashion brands, especially those from different countries. Always compare your exact body measurements to the brand’s custom size chart.

Key measurements to check:

Bust

Waist

Hip

Length (especially important for floor-length dresses)

Bonus points if the site offers custom sizing options—a common perk for high-end or artisanal fashion brands.

Check real customer photos and reviews

One of the best ways to tell the true quality of a gown is through customer-taken photos and honest feedback.

Places to look for:

Instagram tags and mentions

Customer review sections with pictures

Pinterest boards from real buyers

TikTok unboxings or try-ons

These photos show the fabric, color, and fit of the gown outside of the studio.

Check returns and refund policies

Even if everything goes well, a transparent return policy is crucial when buying an expensive gown online.

Check for:

Clear terms for refunds, exchanges, and store credits

Return period (7 days? 30 days?)

Is return shipping included

Any “final sale” clause