Lafayette bridal store adds space, dresses, men's area

3Feb/100

Lafayette bridal store adds space, dresses, men's area | jconline …

After more than eight years in business and going through several expansions, Chiffon Formal & Bridal Wear owner Connie Fleming thinks her store is just right.

"I think we're pretty much done now, and we can do so much more with all this extra space," she said. "We want to make all our brides feel like princesses, and now we have the room to do that."

Chiffon, at 2028 S. 22nd St. in Lafayette, is celebrating its grand re-opening after a shop makeover that added new departments, new dresses and more than 3,000 square feet of space.

"It was a relief to finally have it done. it took a bit longer than we anticipated," Fleming said. "A lot of our customers are repeat customers, so when they come in, they instantly notice and love the changes."

Fleming said the expansion started at the end of September and was completed about two weeks ago.

Chiffon has added a mother's section, giving moms the opportunity to view and purchase a wide variety of upscale clothing and accessories so they, too, can stand out on the big day.

A designated men's section, complete with comfortable recliners and a 50-inch plasma television, was also added.

"We always offered tuxedo rentals, but the guys never had their own space, and they thought there was just too much estrogen in here," Fleming joked. "My sons call it the 'man cave.' "

The bridal showroom has also been expanded to accommodate three, elevated changing rooms surrounded by mirrors. these areas are referred to as stages.

When standing on a stage, a shopper can show her gown to family and friends.

"It's not every day that we can't find room for the brides, but we were getting to the point where we had too many customers," said store manager Lauren Allee. "We can actually pamper our brides and make sure everyone gets that experience.

"We love the new space, and it makes it fun to come in to work every day."

The prom and pageant room was also expanded, and designs by new designers have been added to the shop's collection.

Fleming said one of the most welcome additions that have come with the renovation is new staff.

"With all the new space, we added three girls to the staff," she said. "Having the extra help really makes a difference."

In addition to bridal wear, prom and pageant wear, Chiffon offers outfits for special occasions and in-store dress alterations.

Lafayette bridal store adds space, dresses, men's area | jconline ...