
Planning a wedding can be expensive, but finding the perfect wedding dress doesn't have to be. There are plenty of places to shop for budget-friendly wedding dresses, both online and in-store. While the average cost of a wedding dress is $2000, there are many options available for under $500, and even under $200. Shopping for a dress in-store allows you to try on dresses, get one-on-one help from a professional bridal consultant, and have your loved ones there to help with your decision. However, shopping online gives you access to a seemingly endless selection of affordable dresses from the comfort of your home.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Budget | $149 and above |
| Colour | White, ivory, off-white, or other hues |
| Style | Minimalist, intricately detailed, lace, tulle, A-line, etc. |
| Online Shopping | azazie.com, Nearly Newlywed, Luxe Redux Bridal, Lulus, Park & Fifth, etc. |
| In-Person Shopping | Bridal shops, bridal salons, consignment shops, etc. |
| Customisations | Custom sizing, alterations, etc. |
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What You'll Learn

Try on dresses in-store to find your preferred silhouette
Trying on dresses in-store is a great way to find your preferred silhouette for your wedding dress. It can be challenging to determine the best silhouette for your body type, but trying on different styles in person can help you see what works best for you.
When trying on dresses, consider the shape and style of the gown and how it complements your body. For example, if you want to emphasise your waist, look for a dress with a defined waistline, such as an A-line silhouette or a ball gown. Trumpet and mermaid-style dresses are also excellent choices for accentuating the waist and showing off your curves. If you want to conceal your stomach, an empire waist gown might be more suitable.
Additionally, pay attention to the fabric and cut of the dress. Structured fabrics and angular cuts can create a unique look, especially if you want to dress in "'opposition'" to your body shape. On the other hand, softer fabrics with curved lines may be more flattering if you want to dress in "'harmony'" with your body shape.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different silhouettes and styles. Trying on dresses in-store allows you to get a feel for the fabric, the fit, and how comfortable you feel in the dress. It's important to choose a gown that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
Remember, you can also seek advice from bridal stylists or consultants, who can provide valuable insights and suggestions based on your preferences and body type. They can guide you in finding the perfect silhouette that flatters your figure and aligns with your vision for your special day.
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Look for dresses that aren't labelled as wedding dresses
If you're looking for an affordable wedding dress, one great tip is to look beyond the "wedding dress" label. You can find beautiful, suitable dresses that are technically classified as bridesmaid, prom, or gala dresses. These options offer more affordable prices without sacrificing style or quality.
For example, you could consider a structured, floor-length bridesmaid dress in an off-white hue. Adding an extra layer can elevate the look and make it more bridal. You can also explore ivory gala gowns, which often feature elegant silhouettes and unique details.
Another idea is to browse non-white options, such as bold prints, interesting accent colours, or entirely non-white dresses. Leanne Marshall offers colourful, flowy wedding dresses made to order from silk and hand-dyed in the US. You can also explore unique silhouettes, like billowy trapeze gowns, two-piece sets, or chic bridal pantsuits.
Additionally, you can look beyond bridal fashion altogether. Check out ready-to-wear designer collections, vintage stores, and your favourite retailers. This approach can lead to unexpected and truly unique finds.
Remember, when shopping for an affordable wedding dress, consider the additional costs of tailoring, accessories, and cleaning. Setting a realistic budget and doing your research beforehand will help you find the perfect dress without breaking the bank.
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Shop at affordable bridal boutiques
If you're looking for an affordable wedding dress, bridal boutiques are a great option. These boutiques offer a wide range of stylish and affordable gowns, ensuring that you look stunning on your special day without breaking the bank.
One such boutique is Luxe Redux Bridal, which offers discounted gowns at 10-90% off. Their dresses are carefully selected to provide designer quality at a fraction of the cost, ensuring that every bride can find her dream dress without exceeding her budget. The boutique also offers assistance with sizing and can help you find an experienced seamstress to alter your gown if needed.
Another option is Azazie, which offers a range of unique and affordable wedding dresses starting as low as $149. They provide custom sizing options and allow you to try on dresses at home for a small fee before purchasing. This takes the stress out of dress shopping and ensures you can find a dress that fits your body and your budget perfectly.
Additionally, local boutiques like Affordable Bridal Boutique in Provo, Utah, cater to brides looking for beautiful yet affordable gowns. They offer a wide selection of timeless wedding dresses at reasonable prices, understanding the many expenses a bride-to-be has to manage. Their team is dedicated to helping you find a dress that matches your vision, whether you're seeking something sleek or traditional.
When visiting bridal boutiques, don't be afraid to think outside the box. Consider dresses that aren't necessarily labelled as "wedding dresses." Bridesmaid dresses, for example, can often be found in similar styles and colours, offering a more affordable option without sacrificing elegance. With a little creativity and exploration, you can find the perfect dress that embodies the spirit of your wedding day.
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Buy a second-hand dress
Buying a second-hand wedding dress is a great way to save money and be environmentally conscious. Borrowing Magnolia is a platform that connects buyers and sellers of second-hand wedding dresses, with transparent and easy-to-follow steps to purchase your dream dress. You can browse their user-friendly website, contact the seller, and make the purchase, all with ease.
Stillwhite is another excellent option, offering the largest global marketplace for pre-owned wedding dresses. With over 97,000 gowns for sale, you can find your dream dress at a fraction of the retail cost. Their platform allows you to chat safely with sellers, browse through various designers, and make secure payments.
Nearly Newlywed is a similar platform, connecting brides with dresses while helping both buyers and sellers save money. They have been finding new homes for beautiful wedding dresses since 2004, promoting sustainability in the fashion industry.
When buying a second-hand wedding dress, you can add a unique story to the gown while reducing your environmental impact. It's a modern and intelligent choice for environmentally conscious brides who want to make a sustainable statement on their special day.
Additionally, you can explore consignment shops, such as Sixpence Bridal in Guelph, which offer more affordable options than buying new. You can also consider dresses that are not labelled as "wedding dresses," including bridesmaid dresses or ivory gala gowns, which can provide more affordable alternatives.
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Opt for custom sizing
Opting for custom sizing is a great way to ensure your wedding dress fits you perfectly, without the need for costly alterations. Many companies now offer custom sizing at no extra cost, so it's worth considering when looking for an affordable wedding dress.
Custom sizing allows you to input your exact body measurements, ensuring the dress is made to fit your unique proportions. This can be especially useful if you have non-standard body type or if you want to avoid the hassle and expense of alterations. By getting a dress made to your measurements, you can avoid the risk of a dress that doesn't quite fit right and the additional costs that come with alterations.
Some companies, like A. Cherie Couture, offer semi-custom options, where you can choose from pre-existing designs and alter specific design elements to your taste. This allows you to have a dress that's made to your measurements and tailored to your personal style. A. Cherie Couture also offers a three-step verification process to ensure the measurements provided are correct and that the pattern and fabric are cut to the proper size.
Other companies, like Azazie, offer custom sizing at no extra cost. You can try on samples that aren't custom, and they will send you three dresses at a time for a small shipping fee. This allows you to find a style you like before ordering your custom-sized dress.
If you're looking for a more unique design, you can also explore custom designers on Etsy. However, it's important to note that you usually won't be able to try on the dress before purchasing. ColibriStudios on Etsy, for example, designs dresses from Pollardi and sends video and photo updates throughout the process.
Overall, opting for custom sizing can be a great way to ensure your wedding dress fits like a glove without breaking the bank. By choosing companies that offer custom sizing at no extra cost or exploring semi-custom options, you can get a dress that's both affordable and made just for you.
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Frequently asked questions
There are many online stores that offer affordable wedding dresses, including Azazie, Luxe Redux Bridal, Lulus, and Park & Fifth. You can also find used wedding dresses on Nearly Newlywed.
Yes, you can visit bridal shops near you to find affordable options. Some recommended shops include Anthropologie and Labella Bridal Boutique.
Consider looking at dresses that are not necessarily labelled as "wedding dresses", such as bridesmaid dresses or prom dresses. You can also buy a sample dress or a dress from a previous collection at a discount.











































