About

In 1983, LARENAS Bridal & Formal Wear opened for business. Since then, many changes have taken place with the business as well as fashions. LARENAS has survived the test of time.

Janie Ohler, founder and proprietor, said, “One of the most important reasons the store continues to thrive is our being helpful to customers and not pushing merchandise on them.”

LARENAS provides stylish products and great service at a reasonable price. Customers travel from areas such as Cumberland, MD, Bedford, Johnstown, Pittsburgh, PA and of course Somerset County because of their reputation for friendly service and a large selection.

Shopping for formal wear has changed with the Internet playing a big part in the buying decision. Today’s shoppers are well informed. They often know the gown they want, the color and the price they are willing to pay. While browsing online can help with narrowing down choices, purchasing should definitely be done in person. “A bride or someone going to the prom might see a gown online that she likes, print it and bring it to the store for a price,” offered Ohler. It is in the store that they are professionally measured and try on the gown or one similar to it. Buying online may seem like a bargain until you are shipped a damaged or incorrectly sized dress with outrageous handling fees or receive the gown after your event.

“While some start their gown shopping at a large chain store, they won’t want to overlook the benefits of a local store. Alterations in some chain stores typically run $50 or more for a gown whereas we have a list of alterations experts that are much more competitively priced. As a bonus, you don’t have to travel as far for fittings or to pick up the gown, “ offered Ohler.

Tuxedo rentals are a specialty at this local shop. “Guys come back year after year when renting a tux for the prom or for choosing their own wedding tux after being in a friend’s wedding here” Ohler went on to say, “The fit is important to us and it shows.”

In addition to prom and wedding attire, LARENAS carries a large selection of shoes, crinolines, gloves and wraps that complement any gown plus tiaras and veils. There is no need to go to a large city for variety. “We like to remind people that LARENAS has ‘Big City Gowns at Small Town Prices’.

Ohler ends by saying, “We have the price and selection you want. Stop in to see for yourself why LARENAS was voted Daily American Readers’ Choice Favorite Formal Wear five years in a row.”