Lyla Dejesus
Wedding dresses can be expensive, with the average gown in the US costing around $1,800, and some going for over $2,500. However, it is possible to find a bargain wedding dress without sacrificing style. Many retailers and labels are offering affordable options, and there are several ways to save money on your dream dress. From buying second-hand or renting a designer gown, to shopping during sales or opting for a ready-to-wear dress, there are plenty of ways to get a bargain.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online retailers | BHLDN, Torrid, ASOS, TheDressWarehouse, David's Bridal, Lulus, Amazon, Nordstrom, Macy's, Dillard's, Azazie, Birdy Grey, JJ's House, Rent the Runway, Borrowing Magnolia, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, Nordstrom Rack, TJ Maxx |
| Payment plans | Layaway/payment plans are available in some stores |
| Sample sales | Local bridal boutiques offer sample sales with discounts of 40%-70% |
| Trunk shows | Bridal shops may offer discounts during trunk shows |
| Pre-owned | Websites like Stillwhite offer pre-owned wedding dresses at a fraction of the cost |
| Custom-made | Etsy and independent designers offer custom wedding dresses that are often cheaper than big-brand gowns |
| Sales | Retailers clear out inventory twice a year, usually in January and July, with discounts of 30%-70% |
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$46.99 $55.99
Buying pre-owned
If you're looking for a bargain wedding dress, buying pre-owned is a great option. You can find pre-owned wedding dresses on sites such as Stillwhite, Borrowing Magnolia, and Nearly Newlywed. These sites offer a wide range of dresses to choose from, including designer gowns and custom-made dresses.
Stillwhite, for example, is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned wedding dresses, with over 97,000 gowns for sale at a fraction of the cost of retail. You can browse through hundreds of designers and pay securely using PayPal. Similarly, Borrowing Magnolia offers a transparent and user-friendly platform for buying and selling pre-owned wedding dresses. They emphasise the sustainability benefits of buying second-hand and provide a simple listing process for both buyers and sellers.
Nearly Newlywed also connects dress buyers and sellers, helping both save money. They offer new, used, and sample wedding dresses, providing an opportunity for bridal salons to sell their dresses through their marketplace.
When buying pre-owned, you can connect and chat securely with dress owners, ask any questions, and negotiate the purchase details. You can also save money by buying directly from the previous bride and even sell the dress again after your wedding to recoup some of your costs.
With a wide range of styles, colours, and silhouettes available, buying pre-owned is a great way to find your dream wedding dress at an affordable price.
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Shopping sales
Keep an Eye on Seasonal Sales:
Wedding dress retailers often have seasonal sales to clear out older inventory and make way for new styles. Keep a lookout for these sales, especially during the holidays and around the new year. David's Bridal, for example, offers rotating selections of sale dresses throughout the year.
Join Loyalty Programs:
Some stores, such as David's Bridal, offer loyalty programs that can save you money on your wedding dress purchase. Their Diamond Loyalty program, for instance, allows you to save up to $100 on regularly priced wedding dresses.
Sample Sales:
Bridal salons frequently hold sample sales to clear out older inventory. These sales can offer designer gowns at significantly discounted prices, often 25% to 50% off. Keep in mind that sample sales usually feature sample sizes, which may not fit everyone.
Online Marketplaces:
Consider checking out online marketplaces such as Stillwhite, which is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses. You can find designer gowns at a fraction of the cost, and even sell your dress on the same platform after your wedding to recoup some of your expenses.
Discount Retailers:
Look for retailers that specialise in discount wedding dresses, such as TheDressWarehouse. These stores offer a wide range of styles, including designer options, at affordable price points.
By utilising these strategies and keeping an eye out for sales, you can find a beautiful wedding dress that fits your budget. Remember to also consider any alterations or customisations you may want, as these can add to the overall cost. Happy shopping!
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Renting a dress
Renting a wedding dress is an increasingly popular way to save money. Renting a dress can be an affordable, eco-friendly, and hassle-free way to wear your dream gown, without the need for dry cleaning or dress preservation. Rental shops often have extensive collections and stay on top of the latest trends, offering on-trend and timeless designs.
However, there are some drawbacks to renting a wedding dress. Firstly, there is a chance that the dress you want may not be available for your wedding date, so it is important to be flexible and have a few options in mind. Secondly, you may be responsible for any damage to the dress beyond normal wear and tear, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the rental company's damage policies and fees. Most companies offer insurance, either included in the package price or as an add-on for a small fee.
It is also important to carefully read and understand the rental contract before signing. Some contracts may include clauses that allow the rental company to terminate the agreement at any time or provide a backup dress if the original selection becomes unavailable. Additionally, there may be specific requirements for returning the dress, such as a time frame or condition expectations.
Renting a wedding dress can be a great option for those looking to save money and access high-end designer dresses at a fraction of the retail price. However, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks and carefully review the terms and conditions of the rental agreement.
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Payment plans
Wedding dresses can be expensive, but many companies offer payment plans to help you get the dress of your dreams. Here are some tips and options for payment plans:
In-House Payment Plans:
Some bridal boutiques and websites offer their own in-house payment plans. For example, The Last Minute Bride offers payment plans on their designer wedding dresses, which are already discounted by 30-50% off regular retail prices. With their payment plan, you can secure your dream dress without having to pay the full amount upfront.
Similarly, ieie Bridal offers a 50% deposit payment plan for their wedding dresses. You can use a coupon code at checkout to take advantage of this option.
Third-Party Payment Solutions:
Some companies partner with third-party payment providers to offer flexible payment options. For instance, Vow Weddings has partnered with Klarna, a leading alternative payment provider, to allow customers to split their purchase into four interest-free installments, charged every two weeks.
Lease-to-Own Plans:
Companies like Abunda offer lease-to-own plans for wedding dresses, allowing you to get your dream dress without worrying about the cost all at once. With Abunda, you can choose from a variety of brands and designs, and their plans include interest-free installments and monthly payment options.
Credit Card Programs:
Some bridal companies, like David's Bridal, previously offered their own credit card programs to provide financing for wedding dresses. While David's Bridal discontinued their credit card program in 2022, they still offer other payment options like Affirm, Layaway, and Special Order Reservations, which provide flexible financing solutions for their customers.
Boutique Financing:
When visiting boutiques, inquire about financing options. Many boutiques offer alterations, and some may provide financing or accept afterpay, though this may encourage spending beyond your budget. It's important to communicate your budget to the consultants so they can show you dresses within your price range.
Important Considerations:
When using payment plans, be mindful of potential interest charges and late fees. Additionally, note that dresses purchased via payment plans may only be eligible for exchange and not returns, so always review the terms and conditions before committing to a payment plan.
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Alternative shops
If you are looking for a bargain wedding dress, there are many alternative shops and options to consider. Here are some suggestions:
Online Retailers
ASOS, a well-known online retailer, offers a range of wedding dress styles, including deep-plunge maxis, halter midis, and sequined shift dresses. Most of their gowns are priced under $300, with some even under $200. They also offer accessories and lingerie to complete your wedding look.
Lulus, another online retailer, provides wedding dresses starting as low as $40, with a range of styles including sweetheart necklines and slits. Their prices rarely exceed $530, and they frequently have sales, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious brides.
BHLDN, Anthropologie's wedding line, offers dresses starting around $300-$500. Keep an eye out for their clearance sales, where you can find discounts of up to 50% off.
Preowned and Second-Hand Dresses
Stillwhite is the largest global marketplace for preowned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses. With over 97,000 wedding gowns available, you can find designer or custom-made dresses at significantly discounted prices.
Local Bridal Boutiques
Check out local bridal boutiques for sample sales, where you can snag a designer gown at a fraction of the original price. These sales often feature discounts of 40%-70% off, and you might also find discontinued styles at lower prices.
Rental Options
Companies like Rent the Runway and Borrowing Magnolia offer designer gown rentals at a fraction of the cost of purchasing. Prices start as low as $50, providing an affordable alternative to buying a wedding dress.
Department Stores
Department stores like Nordstrom, Macy's, and Dillard's offer elegant white evening gowns perfect for modern or courthouse weddings. These dresses are typically priced between $100 and $300, offering a more budget-friendly option.
With these alternative shops and options, you can find a beautiful wedding dress that fits your budget without sacrificing style or quality. Happy shopping!
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Frequently asked questions
Try shopping at budget-friendly retailers like ASOS, Lulus, BHLDN, Torrid, and Azazie, or check out second-hand sites like Stillwhite, Poshmark, and Facebook Marketplace.
Yes, some shops offer discounts for first-time customers or during trunk shows. You can also look out for seasonal sales, clearance racks, and sample sales at local bridal boutiques.
While it's rare, some shops may be open to negotiating the price, especially if you're purchasing a used dress. You can also ask about payment plans or discounts on dresses that are being discontinued.
You can consider renting a dress from companies like Rent the Runway and Borrowing Magnolia, or buying a bridesmaid dress in white or ivory. Department stores like Nordstrom, Macy's, and Dillard's also offer elegant options at lower price points.
The average cost of a wedding dress in the US is around $1,800, but you can find options for as little as $50 online. It's important to set a budget that works for you and shop around to find the best deals.
