Franklin Dean
Wedding dresses are expensive, with the average cost of a wedding dress estimated to be around $2,000. However, there are many ways to find a beautiful dress without breaking the bank. From shopping sample sales to attending trunk shows, buying pre-owned or off-the-rack, there are numerous budget-friendly options to choose from. For those looking for a unique, modern style, BHLDN (Anthropologie's bridal shop) offers beautiful dresses for under $500. ASOS is another great option, with wedding gowns starting at $100 and a wide range of sizes. For brides on a tight budget, Amazon has thousands of affordable options, with some dresses starting as low as $50. Additionally, renting a dress or wearing a family heirloom can also help reduce costs. With a little creativity and flexibility, finding a dream wedding dress at a dream price is definitely achievable.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average cost of a wedding dress | $2,439 |
| Shop early | 9-12 months in advance |
| Choose a versatile dress | Rewear it |
| Pre-owned dress | Buy or sell |
| Family heirloom | Adapt it to your style |
| Trunk shows | 10-15% off |
| Sample sales | Up to 70% off |
| Off-the-rack | Cheaper and good quality |
| Rentals | Rent the Runway, Nearly Newlywed |
| Retailers | ASOS, Azazie, Amazon, BHLDN, David's Bridal, Lulus |
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What You'll Learn
Shop sample sales
Sample sales are a great way to get a designer wedding dress at a fraction of the cost. Bridal boutiques and designers usually hold these sales once or twice a year to clear out older inventory and make room for newer designs. You can find statement-making looks that are up to 70% off!
Sample sales are a fantastic opportunity to buy in-season clothes at a discounted price. These sales give you the chance to choose from the newest designs at a lower cost. For example, David's Bridal offers an online sample sale with refurbished wedding dresses that are professionally cleaned and inspected for quality. These dresses may have some imperfections, but they are still a great option if you're looking for a budget-friendly gown.
Keep in mind that sample sales usually have limited sizes and quantities, so it's a good idea to shop early. Sample sizes in bridal boutiques typically range from 6 to 10, so if you're looking for a plus-size sample, it's essential to call ahead and check availability.
Additionally, local bridal boutiques offer a more personalized shopping experience. Their bridal consultants are familiar with the area and can provide insights into the top local styles. They may even have knowledge of your wedding venue, helping you find a dress that aligns with the setting.
Overall, shopping at sample sales is a brilliant way to get a designer wedding dress without breaking the bank. With potential savings of up to 70%, you can look like the ideal bride without exceeding your budget.
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Wear a family member's dress
Wedding dresses are expensive, with the average cost of a wedding dress estimated to be around $2,439. However, you can save money by wearing a family member's dress. This can be a beautiful way to honour a relative or create a family tradition. You could wear the dress as it is or adapt it to suit your style and current trends. Even extensive alterations tend to be cheaper than buying a new dress. Plus, the sentimental value of wearing a beloved family heirloom is priceless.
If you're worried about the dress not fitting or being outdated, consider having it altered by a seamstress. They can help you update the style, ensure a perfect fit, and even add modern touches to make it feel like your own. You can also add accessories, such as a sequined belt or a dramatic veil, to make the dress your own and create a unique bridal look.
Another option is to mix and match pieces. For example, you could wear the family member's dress as a top and pair it with a new skirt or trousers. This way, you can create a modern and unique outfit while still incorporating the sentimental value of the family dress.
When planning your wedding, it's important to involve your family and create special moments together. Including them in the process of altering or updating the dress can be a fun and memorable experience. You can go shopping together for any additional pieces or accessories and make a day of it, creating lasting memories.
Remember, by wearing a family member's dress, you're not only saving money but also creating a meaningful connection to your loved ones, which will make your wedding day even more special.
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Opt for off-the-rack gowns
Opting for an off-the-rack wedding gown is a great way to save money without compromising on style or quality. Off-the-rack dresses are available for immediate purchase and can be found at bridal boutiques, online retailers, and sample sales. They are typically more affordable than custom-made options due to factors such as the condition of the gown, the style's status, and the ability to buy directly from the rack without having to place a custom order.
When shopping for an off-the-rack wedding gown, it's important to consider the timeline for your wedding. Off-the-rack gowns are ideal for brides with a shorter timeline as they can be purchased and taken home the same day. However, it's important to act quickly as these gowns are usually first-come, first-served. Additionally, alterations may be needed to ensure the perfect fit, so it's crucial to factor in time for any necessary adjustments.
The length of the gown is another factor to consider when opting for an off-the-rack option. For brides who are shorter or of average height, off-the-rack gowns may be longer than needed, but a hem alteration can easily fix this. For taller brides, there may be fewer options due to dress length, so it's essential to explore different boutiques or retailers to find the right gown.
Off-the-rack wedding gowns can be found in a variety of styles, from simple to extravagant. Whether you're looking for a sleek slip dress, a ball gown, or a modern silhouette, there are off-the-rack options to suit every bride's style and budget. Bridal salons and boutiques often carry a selection of off-the-rack gowns, and their dedicated consultants can help you find the perfect dress for your special day.
Overall, opting for an off-the-rack wedding gown is a budget-friendly and convenient choice for brides who want to find their dream dress without sacrificing style or quality. With the potential for savings, the ability to take the dress home immediately, and the wide range of styles available, off-the-rack gowns are a popular choice for brides-to-be.
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Choose a versatile dress you can rewear
Wedding dresses are usually only worn once, but choosing a versatile option that you can rewear will decrease the overall price. Here are some tips to help you choose a wedding dress that you can rewear:
Choose a mid-length dress
Mid-length styles are easier to restyle than a floor-length gown. You can repurpose a mid-length dress as a party dress and transform it into something new by adding layers or accessories. Their versatile length makes them ideal for various occasions, from casual gatherings to more formal events.
Take advantage of layers
You can also get more wear out of your wedding dress by taking advantage of layers. Detachable trains, skirts, and accessories can be removed to give your wedding dress a new look. Some layers are seamless and look like they are part of the original dress. You can also pair the bodice from a two-piece wedding dress with a skirt from your everyday wardrobe.
Dye your wedding dress
You can incorporate your wedding dress into your everyday wardrobe by dyeing it a distinctly non-bridal colour.
Choose a simple silhouette
Simple silhouettes, like a slip dress, make it easy to repurpose. A classic dress has clean lines and a well-structured design that won't go out of fashion.
Wear a family member's dress
You can save money and create family traditions by wearing the wedding dress of a mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, or other family member. You can wear the dress as it is or adapt it to suit your style and current trends. Even extensive alterations tend to be cheaper than buying a brand-new dress.
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Shop at budget-friendly retailers
Wedding dresses are often very expensive, but there are many ways to find a beautiful dress on a budget. If you're looking to save money, shopping at budget-friendly retailers is a great option. Here are some tips to help you find the perfect affordable wedding dress:
Shop Online
Online retailers often offer a wide range of affordable wedding dresses. Websites like Amazon, Lulus, and Revolve carry wedding dresses at various price points, with some options starting as low as $40. These websites offer a convenient way to browse and compare different styles and prices without leaving your home. Be sure to check reviews and photos from real buyers before purchasing to ensure the quality and fit are what you're looking for.
Department Stores
Department stores such as Nordstrom, Macy's, and Dillard's offer elegant white evening gowns that can be perfect for a wedding, especially if you're planning a low-key ceremony or reception. These dresses often range from $100 to $600, providing a more affordable option without sacrificing style and elegance.
Sample Sales and Clearance Racks
Keep an eye out for sample sales and clearance racks at local bridal boutiques and major retailers. Bridal boutiques and designers hold sample sales to clear out last season's styles, and you can find designer gowns at significant discounts, sometimes up to 70% off. Major retailers like David's Bridal, BHLDN, and Lulus offer huge discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, so planning your purchase around these sales can save you a lot of money.
Renting Options
If you're open to renting a wedding dress, companies like Rent the Runway, Borrowing Magnolia, and Nearly Newlywed offer designer gowns for a fraction of the cost. Prices can start as low as $50, making it a budget-friendly option without compromising on style and quality.
Customizable Gown Brands
Consider customizable gown brands like Cocomelody, which offer affordable and easily customizable gowns with a vast variety of size ranges. Working with their in-house designers, you can create your dream dress within your budget, often for under $500.
By exploring these budget-friendly retailers and options, you can find a stunning wedding dress that suits your style and financial needs without sacrificing the magic of the experience.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to get a cheap wedding dress without compromising on style. You could opt for a pre-owned dress, which can be found on websites like Stillwhite or Sell My Wedding Dress, or on Facebook Marketplace. You could also wear a wedding dress passed down by a family member, or buy a sample dress from a bridal boutique or designer. Retailers clear out inventory twice a year, usually in January and July, so this is a good time to find a bargain.
ASOS has a range of unique wedding dress styles starting at $100, while Azazie offers classic styles for around $200-$300. Lulus has simple, boho, and modern wedding dresses for under $300, and David's Bridal has dresses starting at $99 during their seasonal sales. BHLDN (Anthropologie's wedding line) has dresses starting at around $300-$500, and clearance sales with discounts of up to 50%.
It's important to start your search early, as it can take a few appointments to find the right dress. Buying off the rack is usually cheaper than made-to-order gowns, and you can take the dress home with you the same day. If you're open to wearing a non-traditional colour, you could also opt for a dress that you can rewear, which will decrease the overall cost per wear.
