Bridesmaids' Dress Budget: How Much Should You Ask Them 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, bridesmaids can expect to spend around $130 on their dress, but this can range from $60 to $400 or more. As a bride, it's important to be mindful of your bridal party's budget and choose dresses that are affordable for everyone. Open and honest communication about finances is key to ensuring that everyone is comfortable with the cost of the dress.

Budgeting for the bridesmaid dress

Communicate Openly:

Firstly, open and transparent communication is essential. Discuss budget estimates with your bridal party and be mindful of their financial situations. Be clear about what they can realistically afford, as this will alleviate financial stressors. It's recommended to reach out to each bridesmaid individually, via email or text, to respect their privacy. Remember, it's normal and encouraged to be honest about budget constraints.

Determine a Budget:

Based on The Knot's 2023 Real Weddings Study, the average bridesmaid dress cost was $130 per person. However, prices can vary depending on factors such as the dress designer, style, and location. Keep in mind that you may also need to factor in additional costs such as accessories and alterations. If your chosen dress exceeds your bridesmaids' budgets, consider offering to pay the difference, cover alteration costs, or gift them accessories. Alternatively, you may need to explore less expensive options.

Mismatched Dresses or Renting:

If you're open to a mismatched bridesmaid look, allowing each bridesmaid to choose their own dress within a specified colour palette and style guidelines can provide flexibility in terms of budget. This option also allows your bridal party to express their personal style while still adhering to your vision.

Renting bridesmaid dresses is another cost-effective and sustainable option. Services like Nuuly and Rent the Runway offer dress rentals at lower prices, and your bridesmaids won't be left with a dress they might never wear again.

Shop Second-Hand:

Second-hand dresses are also a great way to save money. Websites like Poshmark, thredUP, and eBay offer once-used dresses in excellent condition. Just be sure to carefully inspect the dress for any wear and tear, and keep in mind that alterations may be required if the dress has been tailored previously.

Pre-Owned Dresses:

If you have your heart set on a specific dress that is on the expensive side, consider looking for pre-owned options on sites like eBay or Poshmark. This way, you might be able to find the same dress at a lower price, especially if it's a dress that some of your bridesmaids are comfortable spending a little more on.

Be Mindful of Other Expenses:

Remember, the dress is not the only expense your bridal party will incur. There are other costs associated with being a bridesmaid, such as travel, accommodations, bachelorette parties, and gifts. Be mindful of these additional expenses when setting a budget for the dress, especially if you're asking them to purchase specific shoes or accessories.

In summary, budgeting for the bridesmaid dress involves open communication, consideration of individual financial situations, and exploring cost-saving options like mismatched dresses, rentals, or second-hand purchases. It's important to keep in mind the various expenses your bridal party will incur and set a budget that is respectful and realistic for everyone involved.

Asking bridesmaids about their budget

Asking your bridesmaids about their budget can be a tricky conversation, but it's important to have an open and honest discussion to ensure everyone is comfortable with the financial commitments involved. Here are some tips and suggestions for approaching this topic:

• Individual Conversations: Speak to each bridesmaid privately about their budget. Everyone's financial situation is different, and you want to respect their privacy. Having individual conversations allows you to understand their specific concerns and limitations. It also helps you gather information to make informed decisions about the dress and other expenses.
• Offer Price Ranges: Instead of asking for a specific number, provide a few price ranges, such as $100 to $200, $200 to $350, or $350+. This approach can make the conversation more comfortable and give you a better idea of what each bridesmaid is willing to spend.
• Be Mindful of Additional Costs: Remember that the dress itself is not the only expense for your bridesmaids. Consider additional costs such as accessories, alterations, hair, and makeup. If you're requiring specific shoes or professional hair and makeup services, be prepared to contribute financially or offer to cover any differences in cost.
• Explore Alternative Options: If you know that your bridesmaids have varying budgets, consider alternative options to make it more affordable for everyone. Look for pre-owned dresses, or embrace mismatched looks by choosing a specific colour or style while allowing your bridesmaids to pick their own ensembles within their budgets.
• Be Flexible and Understanding: Understand that your bridesmaids may have different financial capabilities and obligations. Be flexible and willing to work with them to find solutions. If a particular dress is out of their budget, look for similar but less expensive options, or offer to pay the difference if it's important to you.
• Communicate Early: Don't leave these conversations until the last minute. Start discussing budgets early in the process so that everyone is aware of the expected costs and can plan accordingly. This also gives you time to explore alternative options if needed.
• Offer Other Ways to Contribute: If a bridesmaid is unable to commit financially to certain expenses, discuss other ways they can contribute. Perhaps they can offer planning support, day-of tasks, or assistance in non-monetary ways. It's important to recognise that being a bridesmaid involves more than just monetary contributions.
• Be Transparent: Encourage open and transparent communication about finances. It may be uncomfortable at first, but it's better to be upfront about expectations and limitations. This approach will alleviate financial stressors and ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Provide a Budget Estimate: If you have a specific vision that may require higher expenses, provide a comprehensive budget estimate to your bridesmaids. This will help them understand the full scope of the costs involved and allow them to plan their spending accordingly.
• Consider Group Discussions: While individual conversations are important for privacy, don't be afraid to have group discussions as well. This can help set expectations for the entire bridal party and ensure everyone is comfortable with the proposed budget and any associated costs.

Remember, the most important thing is to be considerate of your bridesmaids' financial situations and work together to find solutions that fit everyone's needs and ensure they feel valued and appreciated.

Buying second-hand

Shop Online Marketplaces

There are many online marketplaces that offer second-hand bridesmaid dresses at affordable prices. Sites like Borrowing Magnolia, Poshmark, eBay, and thredUP are great places to start your search. These platforms allow you to filter your search by price, size, style, and more, making it easier to find something that fits your budget and preferences.

Compare Prices

Don't settle for the first dress you find. Take the time to browse different websites and compare prices. You may be able to find the same dress at a lower price on another site. Additionally, keep an eye out for sales or discounts, as these can further reduce the cost of your purchase.

Check for Condition and Alterations

When buying second-hand, it's important to carefully inspect the dress for any signs of wear and tear. Look for stains, tears, or other damage that may impact the overall appearance of the dress. Additionally, keep in mind that second-hand dresses may have been altered to fit the previous owner. Make sure to check the measurements and be prepared to make additional alterations if needed.

Communicate with the Seller

Don't be afraid to reach out to the seller if you have any questions or concerns. Ask about the condition of the dress, why they are selling it, and any alterations that have been made. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure you are happy with your purchase.

Consider the Timing

Keep in mind that shipping times may vary when buying second-hand, especially if the seller is an individual rather than a business. Plan ahead and start your search early to ensure you receive the dress on time. Additionally, be mindful of return policies, as they may differ from traditional retailers.

By following these tips, you can find beautiful second-hand bridesmaid dresses that fit your budget and style. Not only will you save money, but you'll also give a pre-loved dress a new lease of life!

Renting a dress

Benefits of Renting a Dress

• Cost-effective: Renting a dress is often more affordable than buying a new one, especially for bridesmaids who may have multiple weddings to attend.
• Sustainable: Renting reduces textile waste as you send the dress back after wearing it, and it's unlikely you'll wear it again anyway.
• Convenience: Rental services offer a wide range of trendy and designer options, saving you time and effort in searching for the perfect dress.
• Flexibility: You can choose from one-time rentals or monthly subscription plans, depending on your needs and preferences.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Timing: Plan ahead and make reservations early to ensure your preferred dress is available for your event.
• Size and fit: Sizing can vary across brands and rental sites, so consult size guides and interactive tools for customized size suggestions.
• Accessories: Consider the cost of completing your look with accessories, shoes, and specific undergarments.
• Hair and makeup: Discuss with the couple early on who will cover the cost of professional hair and makeup services for the bridesmaids.
• Alterations: Dress alterations can add to the overall cost, especially for heavily embellished fabrics.

Popular dress rental services for bridesmaids include Rent the Runway, Nuuly, The Dress Outlet, FashionPass, Vince Unfold, and By Rotation. These sites offer a range of designer options, flexible rental periods, and affordable pricing plans.

Mismatched dresses

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a great way to let your bridal party showcase their personalities and individual styles. It's also a good way to ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident, as not every dress flatters every body type.

There are a few different ways to do mismatched dresses:

• Same dress style in different colours: If you've found a dress you love and want everyone to wear the same silhouette, you can still achieve a mismatched look by opting for different colours. Play with fabric swatches to determine your scheme and try to stick to no more than three colour variations.
• Same dress colour in different styles: This option is perfect if you want to stick to tradition and have everyone in the same colour, but also want to acknowledge the diversity of your bridal party. By committing to the same hue, but allowing for options in style and design, you're ensuring that everyone will be comfortable and happy.
• Different dress styles and colours: If you want to go all out, you can incorporate different designs and colours into your bridal party ensemble. You can stick within the same colour family and play with different tones and hues, or use the palette of your wedding inspiration. Just make sure you have time to see all the dresses together before the big day.
• Consider hemlines carefully: In the spirit of mismatching, you may choose different length dresses. Just be sure to have a good mix of lengths and silhouettes so that your bridal party photos look balanced.
• Don't vary too many features: It's best to switch up only one or two things about each dress and keep the rest the same. For example, choose different necklines and colours but in the same fabric.
• Examine colours on a sample, not just swatches: Different-coloured dresses are popular, but it can be hard to select ones that look good together. The small swatches on a card often look very different when made up into a gown. The easiest way to visualise how they will look together is to check out full-size samples in daylight and switch out different options until you're happy.
• Tie the look together with identical accessories: When alternating colours, styles, and silhouettes, it's important to have one design component that ties all the looks together for a cohesive aesthetic. This could be a rhinestone belt, statement jewellery, or matching bouquets.
• Get input from your bridesmaids: Talk to your bridal party and give them a choice. Some may want a more modest neckline, some may want fitted silhouettes, and others may not have a preference.
• Have a vision and stick to it: It's important to have a theme or guiding concept, even if you're doing mismatched dresses. Share swatches or colour families, or give your bridesmaids options of 10-15 dresses to choose from in the colours you desire.
• Consider one designer: Sticking to one designer's collection is a great way to ensure a cohesive look, as each lady shows off her own personality while wearing a very similar dress to the others.
• Flowers can pull it all together: When it comes to different cuts and colours, a great way to tie it all together is with neutral and simple matching bouquets.

Mismatched bridesmaid dresses can be a fun and stylish way to mix things up, but it's important to have some guidelines in place to ensure a cohesive look.

Frequently asked questions