Bridesmaids Dress Budget: How Much To Spend?

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it's also a major financial commitment. One of the biggest expenses is the bridesmaid dress, which can vary in price depending on factors such as the designer, style, and location. On average, a bridesmaid dress costs around $150, but prices can range from under $100 to over $300. It's important to have open and transparent conversations about budget expectations with the bride and other bridesmaids to ensure that everyone is comfortable with the cost.

Budgeting for bridesmaids' dresses

Budgeting for Bridesmaids Dresses

Being a bridesmaid is a huge honour, but it can also be a major financial commitment. The cost of a bridesmaid dress will always vary, but it's important to keep the budget in mind, especially since your bridal party will be sacrificing both time and money for their role.

The short answer is that it depends. The cost of a bridesmaid dress will vary depending on factors such as the dress designer, the style of the dress, and your location. According to The Knot's 2023 Real Weddings Study, the average bridesmaid dress cost in 2023 was $130 per person, but prices can range from $100 to $350 or more. It's important to consult with your bridal party to see how much they can afford and offer a few price ranges to choose from.

Tips for Saving Money on Bridesmaid Dresses

• Look for pre-owned dresses on sites like eBay or Poshmark.
• Embrace the trend of mismatched bridesmaid dresses, which allows each bridesmaid to choose a dress within their budget.
• Rent bridesmaid dresses from sites like Rent the Runway, which offers designer labels at lower prices.
• Shop second-hand for bridesmaid dresses on sites like Poshmark, thredUP, or eBay.

Other Bridesmaid Expenses to Consider

In addition to the cost of the dress, there are other expenses to consider, such as dress alterations, accessories, hair and makeup, travel costs, and gifts. Bridesmaids are also typically expected to pay for their own pre-wedding events, such as the bridal shower and bachelorette party, which can add up quickly. It's important for bridesmaids to be transparent about their budget and for the bride to be flexible and respectful of their financial abilities.

Pre-wedding event costs

There are a number of pre-wedding events that will require some financial planning. Here is a breakdown of the costs you can expect:

Engagement Party

The engagement party is usually hosted by one of the families, but can also be hosted by other relatives or friends. It typically takes place about three months after the engagement and invitations should be sent at least a month in advance. This party can be held at a variety of locations, such as the host's home, a restaurant, bar, lounge, or even a unique venue like a historic home or park. As the couple, you can expect to be the guests of honour at this event, but you won't be footing the bill.

Bridal Shower or Wedding Shower

The bridal shower is a traditional celebration that includes the bride, her bridesmaids, and important women from both families. It usually takes place two to three months before the wedding. Gifts are exchanged and light refreshments are served. This event is typically hosted by a member of the wedding party, such as the maid of honour or a bridesmaid, but can also be hosted by parents or other friends or relatives. If you are a member of the bridal party, you may be expected to contribute to the cost of this event, especially if you are the maid of honour.

Bachelorette Party

The bachelorette party is a celebration for the bride and her bridesmaids, usually taking place one to two months before the wedding. It can be a single-day event or a whole weekend of activities. As a bridesmaid, you will be expected to contribute to the cost of this event, which can be split among the group.

Bridesmaid Luncheon

The bridesmaid luncheon is an intimate gathering for members of the bridal party, usually held the day before the wedding. It is hosted by the bride, who invites all of the bridesmaids, flower girls, mothers of the bride and/or groom, and other close female relatives. This event is a way for the bride to thank her bridesmaids and present them with gifts.

Rehearsal Dinner

The rehearsal dinner is usually hosted by the groom's family and takes place the night before the wedding. It is a more laid-back event compared to the actual wedding, and it provides an opportunity for toasts and speeches. The entire wedding party is invited, along with their plus-ones and very close relatives or friends. As a member of the bridal party, you may be expected to contribute to the cost of this event, especially if the groom's family is not able to cover all the expenses.

Wedding Welcome Party

The wedding welcome party is an optional event that usually takes place immediately after the rehearsal dinner. It is hosted by the couple and/or their families, and all guests are invited. This party is especially important for destination weddings or when there are a lot of guests travelling from out of town.

Dress alterations

The cost of dress alterations varies depending on the type of dress, the complexity of the alterations, and the tailor's skill and location. On average, dress alterations can range from $25 to $200.

For example, taking in the sides of a dress can cost between $18 and $135, while adjusting the shoulders or straps typically ranges from $15 to $55. Shortening or lengthening the sleeves of a dress usually costs around $20 to $55. Replacing a zipper will likely set you back $20 to $45. Shortening a dress from the waist or back is estimated to be around $50 to $200, and raising the shoulders or resetting the collar and sleeves will cost a similar amount.

More complex alterations, such as those involving intricate lace designs, delicate fabrics, or elaborate beading, will likely be more expensive as they require hand sewing to ensure the embellishments are accurately placed. Formal dresses, which are typically made from fabrics like silk, chiffon, or polyester, are generally more expensive to alter than casual dresses made from cotton or rayon.

Additionally, the number of layers a dress has and the type of material it is made from will impact the cost. For instance, a dress with four layers made from horsehair will cost significantly more to alter than a two-layer dress made from silk and chiffon.

It's important to consult with a skilled tailor to obtain an accurate quote for dress alterations, as the price can vary depending on the specific alterations required.

Accessories

If you're a bridesmaid, it's worth checking in with the bride to see if she has any specific requirements for accessories. For example, she might want you to buy matching shoes or a particular piece of jewellery. If you're given free rein to choose your own accessories, you could save money by shopping your own jewellery collection or checking out thrift stores and websites like Facebook Marketplace.

In addition to accessories, don't forget to factor in the cost of alterations to your bridesmaid dress. These can range from $30 to $100, depending on how extensive the changes are.

Travel and accommodation

When it comes to travel, bridesmaids often have to arrange their own transportation, especially if the wedding is in a remote location. This can include flights, car rentals, or other means of transport. It is important to plan and budget for these expenses accordingly, especially if the wedding is in a different city or country.

To reduce costs, bridesmaids can consider sharing rooms or transportation with other members of the wedding party. Additionally, the bride may offer discounted room rates by booking a block of hotel rooms in advance. It is essential to communicate about these details a few months before the wedding to avoid last-minute surprises and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Bridesmaids should also be mindful of any additional travel expenses, such as transportation to and from the wedding venue, meals, and other incidentals. These costs can quickly add up, so it is beneficial to create a comprehensive budget that includes all potential expenses.

While the bride is not obligated to cover travel and accommodation costs for the bridesmaids, it is a kind gesture to offer assistance if possible. This can include providing transportation for the wedding day, helping to arrange group discounts, or offering to split the costs of accommodation.

Frequently asked questions