FAQ Topics

  • No. Good news! We only accept walk-ins, so you are welcome to walk-in anytime! A bridal consultant will be available to assist you as a walk-in.

  • No. Good news! We only accept walk-ins, so you are welcome to walk-in anytime! A consultant will be available to assist you as a walk-in.

  • We are open 7 days a week! Monday-Thursday 10:00am-8:00pm, Friday and Saturday: 10:00am-7:00pm and Sunday: 12:00pm-6:00pm. We are closed for the following holidays: Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. We close at 6:00pm on Memorial Day, Labor Day and New Year’s Eve.

  • No, we do not offer dress rentals. However, we do have a wide variety of price ranges.

  • We ship within the United States and Canada.  If applicable, Customers will be charged for additional taxes and duties at checkout. Please note that we do not ship to PO Boxes.

  • Depending on the manufacturer, rush cuts for bridal gowns are sometimes available. There are extra costs involved and the rush dates differ among vendors. Certain vendors keep stock of some popular (“priority”) bridal gowns and may have one available for immediate delivery. These vendors are Allure, Maggie Sottero, Sottero & Midgley, and Mori Lee.

  • Terry Costa does not have an alterations department "in-house" so we cannot give exact alterations estimates.

  • We ship via UPS. A signature is required for all orders over $500, so please make sure someone is available to sign upon delivery in order to ensure that you receive your package quickly and with no additional fees. Expedited shipping is available for an additional fee.

  • Given that Debutantes usually choose appropriate bridal styles as their perfect presentation gown, it usually takes 3-4 months to special order a gown if they do not have your size in stock. If they have your size in stock, we will usually receive your gown in 7-10 business days. If there is a special request involved, such as shortening or lengthening the train , this process could take up to 6 months. All of our gorgeous gowns are also available off the rack, so you could walk out the door with your dream dress or begin alterations right away!

  • A girl's debutante presentation gown is a keepsake she'll remember forever and we know every deb is different! We have gowns ranging from $50 in our Sample Sale clearance section to $2,000 in the Couture department. Terry Costa will bring your debutante dream dress within reach, no matter your budget!

  • We require a 50% deposit before we can order the gown. Once the deposit is made and the gown is ordered, it is yours--we will not be able to accept any cancellations from that point forward. The remaining balance is due when you pick up the dress.

  • It usually takes about 3 months for bridesmaids dresses to come in once the order has been placed. There are rush options available. It is best to speak to one of our knowledgeable Bridal Consultants regarding rush dates, as these dates and prices vary.

  • Dressing your bridal party is easy at Terry Costa because we provide the best customer service to our brides. First, we will help you choose the best style for your best gals. This information is clearly printed on one of our Bridesmaids Cover Sheets along with each bridesmaid's name. This sheet helps us manage who has been measured and/or paid their deposit and who has not. Your lovely ladies can then come in at their convenience to be measured and to choose their size using the manufacturer's size chart. If they're not local, they can call us with their measurements and we'll talk them through the ordering process over the phone. Remember: We need every Bridesmaid's measurements and deposit (50% of the total price, including tax and shipping) before we place any of the orders. This is necessary to ensure all dresses come from the same dye lot as dresses ordered separately will be dyed separately and their colors may vary slightly. This is also why it is best for everyone to order their dresses at Terry Costa, even if they don't live nearby.

  • Like most formal-wear, Bridesmaids' dresses are made to be tailored--meaning they almost always require alterations. Gowns are typically ordered based on the manufacturer's size chart using measurements the bridesmaid provides. As a convenience to the Bride, our Bridal Consultants maintain a file for each bridal party and are happy to measure the bridesmaids here at the store or measurements can be taken professionally at any boutique, any tailor's shop, or even the alterations department of their local dry cleaners. Most importantly, it is imperative that measurements be taken by a professional and not the bridesmaid herself. When the bridesmaid comes in or calls us with her measurements our experienced consultants will help her make the best decision based on the designer's size chart. Ultimately, the final decisions regarding size are always the customers'. Keep in mind, bridesmaid dresses, like bridal gowns, tend to run small. Don't forget we do try our best to keep a size run in at least one style from each Bridesmaids designer so that your lovely bridesmaids can try on a size close to their own to help them make their decision.

  • Certainly! We have many swatches in-house so we can mail you/give you a swatch as soon as you order. If we do not have a particular color or fabrication in our dressing room, we can ask the manufacturer to send us more swatches on your behalf. Almost all colors and fabrications are available, with a few rare exceptions. Most bridal gowns swatches can be ordered from the manufacturer as well, some for a small fee.

  • Yes! If we carry the line, we can order any style that is available from that particular manufacturer. It's one of the perks we enjoy as an Authorized Retailer and we're able to pass along those benefits to our valued customers!

  • Absolutely! In fact, there are some dresses that can ship in as little as three weeks. Rush fees vary from $5 to $40 so it is best to contact our Bridal Consultants directly to discuss your options so that we can find a perfect dress to accommodate your quick wear date.

  • Since we special order the bridesmaid dresses, there is usually only one of every sample dress in the store. Designers send us a range of sizes in their sample packets and our Consultants have many tools to help make the dress fit you so that you can make an educated decision based on how the dress looks from the front. For your convenience we also do our best to keep a size run of at least one style from each Bridesmaid designer so that everyone in your party can try on a few sizes before they order if they wish.

  • Depending on the manufacturer, rush cuts for bridal gowns are sometimes available. There are extra costs involved and the rush dates differ among vendors. Certain vendors keep stock of some popular (“priority”) bridal gowns and may have one available for immediate delivery. These vendors are Allure, Maggie Sottero, Sottero & Midgley, and Mori Lee.

  • It usually takes 3-4 months to special order a bridal gown if your preferred size and/or color is not in stock at our partner's warehouse. If they have your perfect gown in stock it takes about 7-10 business days for the gown to ship to Terry Costa. If there is a special request involved (such as a length change or custom design change) or if production includes intricate detailing and handwork this process could take up to 6 months. All of our samples are available off the rack. This is an excellent option if you have a quick wear date or would simply like to begin alterations right away.

  • This decision is completely up to the bride. All of our samples are available off the rack, however, most of our brides choose to special order their gown because they want a brand new gown that has never been tried on. We do have a Sample Sale collection where you will find gowns that have been marked down to be purchased off the rack. Our One-of-a-Kind selection is also unique in that all these gowns must be purchased off the rack since they were not produced as part of the designer's running collection.

  • Here at Terry Costa, we bring your bridal dreams within reach by offering a price range from budget to better. In our Bridal Salon you will find great deals in our Sample Sale area with gowns starting as low as $50. Our Salon also features stunning styles priced up to $5,000 in our Couture and One-of-a-Kind departments and average designer gowns priced around $1,200. Whether you are fabulously frugal or ready to splurge on your once-in-a-lifetime look, Terry Costa has the gown that won't break your budget.

  • We accept Cash, Checks, Debit Cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express and Apple Pay in the store. Online we accept all major credit/debit cards mentioned above.

  • You should always carry your own purse at Prom with some must-have items! We have tons of cute purses and clutches and you're sure to find the perfect match for your dress!

    Just make sure you have the following inside:

    • Lipstick
    • Mints
    • Your phone
    • Your keys
    • Enough cash to get a ride home from a taxi/a credit card if need be
    • Your camera (you won’t want to miss a moment!)
    • If you have room, you might consider carrying some roll-up ballet flats for the after prom party.

  • If the veil is ordered without any changes it usually takes 1-4 months. For changes to a veil, it could possibly take longer. However, it is still possible (with certain vendors) to get a veil within two weeks.

  • The veils we keep in the store are samples, just like the bridal gowns. You are welcome to either purchase a veil off the rack or special order one.

  • You can change the length, how many tiers (layers), the edging, the decoration on the veil, or whether or not you want it detachable (Velcro).

  • We accept Cash, Checks, Debit Cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express, Apple Pay  and After Pay in the store. Online we accept all major credit/debit cards mentioned above, as well as Apple Pay and AfterPay.

  • We currently have only one store located in Dallas, Texas. However, you can shop from any location, 24/7 on our website!

  • If your preferred style, size and color is in stock in our partner's warehouse you should receive your package in about 7-10 business days. If your preferred style is a  “preorder" (out of stock at the moment but expected to arrive in our partner's warehouse by a certain date) then we will be able to secure the item for you so that we can ship it to you as soon as it arrives. If the item is no longer available, we will let you know right away and offer some alternatives that may work for you.

  • If you've looked at a vendor size chart and your measurements fall between sizes, we recommend ordering the larger size and getting the gown taken in to fit you perfectly. Our designer gowns run small, so don't be surprised if measurements indicate a size (or even two) bigger than you usually wear. We usually tell customers to budget $100-$150 for Prom alterations- but it depends on what needs to be done and the style of the gown. For example, it might cost $15 to take in the straps of a gown, but $200 to change the hem of an ornate ball gown. Remember: You can always size a gown down to fit you, but you can't always let out the seams to make it bigger. Many gowns simply don't have any seam allowance available for a tailor to use to make your dress bigger. Better safe than sorry!

  • The best thing to do is to pick a part of your body that you love, and find a dress that flatters what you like best! Think of the last time you loved the way you looked...what were you wearing??

    A high-low or short gown will show off your legs and add height

    A strapless gown draws attention to your shoulders

    A halter will play up your face

    A ball gown creates curves or shows off a defined waist and a babydoll or empire style is great for flattering a pear shape.

    If you're shorter you should stick to short or high-low gowns to create height and avoid long ball gowns or fit and flare styles.

    If you're plus-sized, consider a fabric choice in your dress that glides and drapes along the body (like chiffon or georgette) rather than a style or fabric that will add bulk, such as tulle or organza.

  • Here at Terry Costa, we have the perfect Prom Gown for every girl! We have gowns ranging from $19 in the clearance section to over $10,000 in the couture department. Depending on your needs, you are sure to find the prom dress of your dreams well within your budget, whatever it may be.

  • Out of sheer devotion most moms wait until the last minute to shop for themselves. We suggest that you focus on your purchase three or four months before the wedding. Most of the styles that complement the season of your event are in stores two to four months earlier, and a few of our designers take up to three months to ship their gowns (good news: those styles are available in a wide range of colors so you're sure to find a shade that will complement your wedding).

  • Here at Terry Costa, we bring your Homecoming dress dreams within reach by providing gorgeous gowns at every price point from budget to better!

    We have gowns ranging from $19 in the clearance section to over $10,000 in the couture department. You are sure to find the dress of your dreams well within your budget, whatever it may be.

  • We've found that usually short dresses are popular for Homecoming, but it's totally up to you! Remember: Accessories make all the difference.

    So buy the gown you love and dress it up with fabulous earrings and shoes, or keep it simple with basic studs. If you're on your school's Homecoming Court, dress it up a bit more - remember, all eyes will be on you at the Homecoming Game!

  • Yes! As long as the designer is still cutting the style, we can get it for you. It's best to place your order right away so that we can check for you. That way we can snag your preferred size and color before anyone else does.

  • Terry Costa does offer a layaway plan. To place something on layaway you must pay half of the total purchase price as a non-refundable deposit. This price will include tax and a $10 layaway fee. The merchandise must be paid for in full and picked up within 60 days or it will be placed back into our stock and you will forfeit your deposit.

  • Terry Costa currently carries a unique selection of casual wear- a combination of desk-to-dinner dresses, basics and novelty pieces that cover many different styles, looks, and price points to accommodate all of your activities from a normal day around the Metroplex to a night on the town.

  • Always choose earrings, shoes, etc. that compliment your gown and don't compete with it. Buy your accessories the day you buy your gown at Terry Costa and save 15% on shoes, jewelry and handbags!

  • Gowns in-stock at our partners' warehouses will get to us within 7-10 business days. Gowns out of stock are subject to their shipping deadlines and can take several months to arrive. Some gowns may be unavailable in certain sizes and colors. You always call our store for availability.

  • Cocktail Attire: This notation on an invitation advises you to choose a cocktail length style. You want your hemline to fall to the knee or just above. The neckline can be either strapless or with sleeves of any sort--find the look that is most comfortable to you and add a shawl if you think the evening might be a bit chilly. Jewelry can be subtle or dazzling, it's up to you!

    Black Tie Optional: This language indicates that the wedding is formal but tuxedo and/or long, formal gown is optional. A more embellished cocktail dress or classic floor-length would be appropriate and you will probably feel overdressed in a heavily embellished, long gown with a train. There is a bit more wiggle-room in this category--the hosts are merely letting you know that the affair will be a bit more formal.

    Black Tie Preferred: This wording indicates that you should wear a long dress that is a bit more on the formal side. Sparkling jewelry is appropriate.

    White Tie: If the invitation says "white tie" then the outfit could even call for opera-length gloves to wear along with your floor-length evening gown.

  • It depends on the location of the venue, the time of day, and the overall feel over the wedding:

    Outdoor Wedding: Wear a lightweight dress or skirt, keeping in mind that it may be windy so watch your hemline. Also, be mindful of your shoes--heels can get stuck in the grass or dirt so flats or wedges would probably be a better choice. A cocktail length style or maxi dress is almost always appropriate. For a garden wedding, try a pretty floral print! For a beach wedding you will fit right in with neutrals or bright solids. Try pairing your look with statement earrings!

    Informal Evening Wedding: Wear a cocktail dress or dressy skirt and top. The hemline can be above the knee in this situation but it is in the evening so nothing too short or casual. You want to look sharp and tasteful but not overdressed. Darker shades are always good for evening, but a pop of color is certainly welcome in this situation.

    Informal Daytime Wedding: This is a great opportunity for a fun daytime dress or skirt with low to mid-height heels.

  • Since we carry so many fabulous designers, we don't have a physical catalog of all their styles. Our vendors do not send us enough catalogs to mail out to all our customers so we do our best to keep our website up-to-date with the hottest new styles. Occasionally we do have catalogs from select designers in the store that you may take with you. Our best suggestion is to visit our website often and check out all our social media sites like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for our newest arrivals. 

  • A few of our vendors offer petite cuts. We do have an excellent tailor we often recommend for hems, shortening straps, etc. who is just four doors down from our Flagship location in Dallas. Some of our Bridal Gown designers offer shorter lengths of select styles for no additional fee and others offer to make the adjustment for a "custom length" fee.

  • We carry up to size 24 at our Flagship location with a small selection up to size 28 and 30. Our manufacturers have a limited number of styles available in this range, but we can always check availability of a style we have in stock or on our website. If it is available we are happy to special order your size once you have made your final decision.

  • Orders may be placed on our website 24/7! If you prefer, you may call our store directly and an associate will be happy to help you complete the order over the phone using your credit card number. We simply need the designer, color, style number, and size of your dream dress. Of course, you are also welcome to visit our store in person and enjoy all the luxuries of one-stop shopping, where our experienced consultants will help you complete your order along with any accessories, shoes, etc to make your look one-of-a-kind.

  • We do not have in-house alterations. However, we have several suggestions of amazing tailors in the DFW Area.

  • We carry many different lines of prom dresses, including popular lines such as Sherri Hill, Primavera, Faviana, Portia and Scarlett, La Femme, Ellie Wilde, Morilee, Scala, Ava Presley and more! We have hundreds of hot prom dresses in store NOW!

  • Easy! Gather your order number and e-mail address used to place the order and submit a return/exchange request via this link: https://terrycosta.returnscenter.com/  Please review our full online return policy here: https://www.terrycosta.com/policies/refund-policy

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