Property of KARE 11 TV used via shine.yahoo.com for the purpose of critical commentary

While you may have already heard the big news that bridal fashion bigwig Priscilla of Boston is closing its doors after 65 years, have you heard about what’s happened to some of the unused dresses?

Outrage sprang up after it was reported that the Edina, MN, store had employees spray paint the gowns pink and throw them in the trash. Dresses that could have easily been donated or taken to alternative stores for sample sales were instead destroyed so that no one could wear them. Just as a point of reference: Priscilla of Boston dresses are hardly inexpensive, costing as much as $5,000+, and the store chains sell many other designers as well, including Vera Wang creations that can cost in the five-figure amount.

A statement from the retailer claimed that they don’t donate dresses that are damaged, soiled or in poor condition, but those who witnessed the trashing claim the only thing wrong with the gowns was the garish spray paint.

A retail analyst told Today.com that an ulterior motive may be concern about their merchandise being counterfeited.

Just yesterday, the parent company of Priscilla of Boston, David’s Bridal, released a statement finally apologizing for the destruction, claiming that they also were “disheartened by imagery of … unsold bridal gowns being destroyed,” and promising to rally the other closing stores to ensure that gowns in good condition are donated appropriately.

What do you guys think? Are you outraged? Or more understanding? Or are you just hoping that some gorgeous Priscilla sample dresses turn up near you at an affordable price? (I’m kind of the latter…)