Vera Wang is not with the drama!
After all the hoopla when news broke that the Vera Wang flagship store was charging nearly $500 for customers to simply try on their gowns for 90 mins, the iconic designer sprung into action.
Although Vera Wang locations in other parts of the world did not have the same policy, other wedding stores in the region normally enforced these type of fees to try on the merchandise.
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In a recent statement about the controversy, Vera said:
“Upon careful investigation and review of the policies of our international operators, we will be abolishing appointment fees in all of our stores. 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.”
Vera Wang’s team, who confirms that the fee is because of regional norms, said in a corporate statement:
“Due to the delicacy of wedding gowns and the inherent and specific nature of the bridal business, it has been known to be a common practice among bridal luxury retailers to charge a nominal fee for appointments. It is frequently left to the discretion of local operators to determine policies specific to their regions. We are reviewing our policy and formulating a system where all international stores will be aligned.”
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While some claimed racism, it should be taken into consideration that Vera has Chinese and Shanghainese roots, which made the opening of the Chinese flagship more of a homecoming than a business venture. Because of this, Vera has dropped the 3,000 yuan ($480) fee that accompanied trying on the dress.
Good goin’, Vera. There is nothing worse than having your own culture feel like you’ve turned your back on them.
