Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dresses can be expensive, but there are ways to find a beautiful dress on a budget. Buying a pre-owned dress is a great way to save money, as is shopping for dresses that aren't necessarily labelled as wedding dresses, such as bridesmaid or prom dresses. If you're open to thrift shopping, you may find a hidden gem at a fraction of the cost of a new dress. You could also wear a family member's wedding dress, which can add sentimental value to your big day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Budget | $100-$1000 |
| Online shops | stillwhite, ieie bridal, Azazie, Lulus, ASOS, Reformation, BHLDN, TheDressWarehouse, David's Bridal, Luxe Redux Bridal |
| Physical shops | Bridal shops, Bravo Bridals, Play it Again Val, Sixpence Bridal, Net |
| Other options | Facebook marketplace, Etsy, thrift stores, charity shops |
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What You'll Learn
Online retailers offering cheap wedding dresses
There are many online retailers offering cheap wedding dresses. Here are some of the best options:
ASOS
ASOS is a well-known online retailer that offers a wide range of clothing, including wedding dresses. While they don't have a dedicated bridal section, they have many wedding dress options from different brands, most of which are under $300, with many priced under $200. ASOS offers free standard shipping on orders over $50 and returns within 28 days.
Lulus
Lulus is another online retailer that offers a variety of clothing, including wedding dresses. Their wedding dress collection includes trendy, timeless, casual, and luxe styles, with prices starting as low as $40 and nothing over $530. Lulus offers free shipping on select orders and easy returns. They also have a team of bridal concierges available to help with any size and fit concerns.
Azazie
Azazie offers a wide selection of well-made and fashionable wedding dresses, most of which retail for under $300. They offer a "try at home" option, where you can try up to three dresses for $15 each, including shipping. They also offer affordable bridal party dresses in various styles and colours.
Reformation
Reformation offers free shipping and returns on all orders. They provide a fast and casual shopping experience, with wedding dresses available off-the-rack. However, one drawback is that their dresses are shipped folded and pressed down in a small envelope, so steaming may be required upon arrival.
Net-a-Porter
Net-a-Porter is an online retailer known for its high-end price tags and luxury brands. However, they also offer some more affordable options, with some gowns available for under $1500. They feature top bridal brands like Danielle Frankel, HalfPenny London, and Alex Perry.
In addition to these options, there are other online retailers, such as Revolve, Sachin & Babi, BHLDN, and Stillwhite, that offer a range of affordable wedding dresses. It's always a good idea to compare prices and styles across different websites to find the perfect dress that fits your budget.
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Thrift stores and second-hand dresses
If you're looking for a cheap wedding dress, you might want to consider buying second-hand from thrift stores and online marketplaces. This is a great way to find a unique dress at a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Online Marketplaces
There are many online marketplaces that offer second-hand wedding dresses. Stillwhite.com, for example, claims to be the largest online wedding dress marketplace in the world, offering new and used wedding dresses at lower prices than retail stores. Nearlynewlywed.com is another online platform that offers new, sample, and preloved designer wedding dresses. They handle payment processing and seller communication, making the buying process super easy. Other online options include Oncewed.com, which offers new, sample, and pre-owned wedding dresses, as well as bridal party gowns.
Physical Thrift Stores
If you prefer to shop in person, you can try thrift stores such as Goodwill, which often have wedding dresses available at very low prices. Another similar option is The Salvation Army, which also offers second-hand wedding dresses. Keep in mind that some thrift stores may keep their wedding dresses in the back, so don't be afraid to ask an employee if they have any available.
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is another great option for finding second-hand wedding dresses. It's free to use and offers a wide selection of dresses from various sellers. You can scroll through the listings in your area and potentially find your dream dress without having to leave your home.
Tips for Buying Second-Hand
When buying a second-hand wedding dress, it's important to consider the alterations that may be needed. Some gowns can be altered down 2-3 sizes, but it's always best to consult with a professional seamstress to ensure the dress can be modified to your liking. Additionally, be sure to inspect the dress for any flaws or damage before purchasing, especially if you're buying from an individual seller rather than a specialised website.
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Sample sales and discontinued dresses
The price of sample wedding dresses depends on their condition and whether the gown has been discontinued. Discontinued dresses can no longer be ordered from the designer, so shops sell them at a lower price. Sample dresses that are not discontinued can still be ordered, but buying off-the-rack can save you a substantial amount of money.
Sample wedding dresses are typically sized between a street size 8 and 12, with a smaller selection available up to size 20. These dresses can be altered by up to two sizes without compromising the integrity of the gown. However, alterations and repair work may cost extra, so it is important to consider these additional expenses when budgeting for a sample or discontinued wedding dress.
Online marketplaces such as Stillwhite offer a wide range of pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses, including discontinued designer gowns at affordable prices. This option allows you to browse through various designers and find a dress that fits your budget and preferences.
Additionally, some organisations, such as "The Brides' Project" in Toronto, accept donations of wedding dresses and use the proceeds to support cancer research. This allows brides to purchase discounted dresses while contributing to a charitable cause.
By considering sample sales, discontinued dresses, and pre-owned options, you can find a cheap wedding dress that suits your style and budget.
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Custom dresses from independent designers
There are several independent designers that offer custom wedding dresses at affordable prices. Here are some options:
Olivia Bottega
Olivia Bottega offers custom-made designer wedding dresses with free custom sizing and luxurious fabrics. Their gowns are made-to-order or ready-to-ship, and they offer couture-level quality at affordable prices. They have a range of styles, including A-line, ball gown, mermaid, and sheath dresses. The cost of a custom wedding dress varies depending on the design and customisation options.
Bride & Tailor
Bride & Tailor offers custom wedding dresses handmade by designers. They can create any style, colour, and size. You can send them your design request, and they will provide a price quote and process details. They can even sketch the dress for you so you can visualise it before it's made. They offer unique designs, such as the "Lilly Black Wedding Dress", a fusion of gothic elegance and timeless romance, and the "Cassie Gothic Ballgown", a blend of gothic romance and fairytale magic.
Lace & Liberty
Lace & Liberty creates custom wedding dresses tailored to your unique vision. They offer a direct-to-consumer model, handling the entire design, dressmaking, and delivery process, passing on savings to the brides. Their custom design pricing starts at $1500 and goes up to $5500, with an average spend of $2000-$3500. The process typically takes 6 months, and they recommend starting a year in advance.
Cocomelody
Cocomelody offers affordable and easily customisable gowns in a wide range of sizes. They allow brides to start with fabric swatches and work with in-house designers to customise their look, often for under $500.
Independent Boutiques
You can also try independent wedding dress boutiques, which often have a range of options within different budgets. For example, a user on Reddit mentioned trying on dresses at three independent boutiques in Southern California and finding plenty of options within a $1000-$3000 budget.
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Dresses that aren't labelled as wedding dresses
If you're looking for a wedding dress that won't break the bank, it might be worth considering a dress that isn't labelled as a wedding dress. By avoiding the "wedding" label, you can often find more affordable options. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Bridesmaid dresses: You can typically order bridesmaid dresses in a variety of colours, including white or non-traditional shades. They can be a great option for a simple and elegant look, and you may be able to dress them up with affordable accessories like overskirts, capes, or toppers.
- Formal gowns, evening gowns, or ball gowns: These dresses are often designed for formal events and can be more affordable than wedding dresses. By searching for these terms instead of "wedding dress", you may find a wider range of options that fit your budget.
- Preloved or second-hand dresses: Resale markets, thrift stores, and online platforms like Facebook Marketplace can be great places to find second-hand wedding dresses or formal gowns at a fraction of the original price. You might even find some dresses with minor flaws that won't be noticeable in photos or affect their function.
- Non-traditional wedding dresses: If you're open to something unique, non-traditional wedding dresses can offer a modern twist on the classic bridal look. Consider colourful, flowy dresses from designers like Leanne Marshall or BHLDN, or check out alternative options like jumpsuits, pantsuits, or structured blazers. Watters Designs, Flora and Lane, and Justin Alexander are also great sources of non-traditional wedding attire.
- Simple dresses in white or other colours: If you're looking for something simple and affordable, consider shopping for a white dress that isn't specifically labelled as a wedding dress. Little white dresses can be versatile and dressed up or down depending on the occasion. You can find these at stores like Lulu's or Azazie, which offer a range of affordable options.
Remember, when it comes to finding a cheap wedding dress, it's all about thinking outside the box and exploring options beyond the traditional wedding dress section.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to find a wedding dress on a budget. Here are some suggestions:
- Buy pre-owned. Websites like PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com, StillWhite, and Loved Twice Bridal offer designer dresses at a fraction of the retail price.
- Wear a family heirloom. If your mother or grandmother still has her wedding dress, consider altering it to suit your style. This option is budget-friendly and adds sentimental value to your big day.
- Shop at department stores or online retailers. Many stores like ASOS, JCPenney, or Target offer white dresses that can work for a wedding at more affordable prices.
- Look for non-wedding dresses. Consider dresses that are not labelled as "wedding dresses", such as bridesmaid or prom dresses. These options tend to be more affordable.
- Thrift shopping. You may be able to find a hidden gem at a fraction of the cost of a new dress, but it may require some patience and time to search.
There are several online retailers that offer affordable wedding dresses. Here are some options:
- Etsy: You can find custom-made wedding dresses on Etsy, with prices ranging from $670.
- Shein: According to reviews on TikTok and the app, Shein offers some lovely wedding dress options.
- Monsoon: Mumsnet users have recommended Monsoon for finding a cheap wedding dress.
- Debenhams: Debenhams offers a range of wedding dresses curated for timeless elegance, with quick delivery and easy return options.
Here are some tips to save money when buying a wedding dress:
- Buy off-the-rack: Off-the-rack gowns tend to be cheaper than made-to-order dresses, and you can take them home the same day.
- Choose a lace-up or corset-style dress: These dresses offer flexibility in sizing, reducing the need for alterations.
- Shop at bridal sample sales: Many bridal stores offer sample sales where you can find gowns that have been tried on but are still in excellent condition.
- Consider the timing: It is recommended to shop for your dress 9 to 12 months before your wedding, as most bridal boutiques make dresses to order rather than carrying extensive stock.
Yes, here are a few additional tips:
- Compare prices and look for sales: Sign up for newsletters or follow social media accounts that share sales and deals on wedding dresses.
- Keep an open mind: Be willing to consider dresses that may not be your first choice. Sometimes, you can find great options at a lower price point.
- Accessorize: You can add your personal touch with accessories to create a look that is true to your style and vision.
Buying a cheap wedding dress can offer several advantages:
- Cost savings: The most obvious benefit is that you can save a significant amount of money, which can be allocated to other aspects of your wedding or future expenses.
- Sentimental value: In the case of wearing a family heirloom, it adds a unique and priceless sentimental touch to your special day.
- Eco-friendliness: Buying pre-owned or choosing a family dress gives a beautiful dress a second life, making it a more sustainable choice.
