Franklin Dean
Wedding dresses are expensive, with the average dress costing around $2,000. However, there are several ways to get a deal on a wedding dress. Starting early is one way to get a bargain, as it gives you more time to shop around and avoid impulse purchases. Buying a sample gown or attending a trunk show can also help you get a discount. Additionally, some retailers offer discounted prices on designer dresses, such as TheDressWarehouse, David's Bridal, and Stillwhite. Online stores like Azazie, Lulus, ASOS, and Meshki also offer affordable options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Start early | It's better to start shopping as soon as possible to give yourself the most options and avoid rush fees |
| Choose simplicity | Opting for a simpler design can save money, as ornate details like hand-sewn crystals can be expensive |
| Off-the-rack | Buying a dress from a store's existing inventory can be more affordable than ordering a custom gown |
| Trunk shows | Attending a designer trunk show can offer the opportunity to purchase a dress at a discounted price |
| Rentals | Renting a wedding dress from retailers like Rent the Runway and Nearly Newlywed can be a cost-effective alternative to buying |
| Pre-owned dresses | Purchasing a pre-owned, second-hand, or sample dress from sites like Stillwhite can provide significant savings |
| Online retailers | Online stores like Lulus, ASOS, and Meshki offer a range of trendy yet affordable wedding dresses with convenient shipping and return options |
| Negotiation | Bridal shops may be open to negotiating prices, especially if you're willing to purchase a sample gown or take advantage of sales |
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What You'll Learn
Negotiate with the bridal shop
Negotiating the price of a wedding dress at a bridal shop can be tricky, as it is generally uncommon to do so. Bridal shops typically have signed contracts with designers that do not allow them to discount their dresses, and they must adhere to the market price set by the designer.
However, there are still some strategies you can employ to try and get a better deal on your dream dress:
- Start early: By beginning your search for a wedding dress early, you give yourself more time to compare prices at different shops and find the best deal. This also helps to avoid rushed decisions and impulse purchases.
- Know your budget: Before stepping into a bridal shop, be clear about your budget. This will help you stay focused and avoid falling in love with a dress that is beyond your means. During your appointment, be upfront about your budget constraints with the sales assistant.
- Compare prices: If you find a dress you adore, take note of the designer and model, and then shop around to see if other boutiques offer the same dress at a lower price. You can also try negotiating with the original shop by letting them know about the lower price elsewhere; they may be willing to match it to make a sale.
- Attend trunk shows: Trunk shows are a great opportunity to purchase a wedding dress at a discounted price. Designers typically offer a 10% discount during these events, so keep an eye out for upcoming trunk shows featuring your favourite designers.
- Payment plans: If you are unable to negotiate the price of the dress, consider enquiring about payment plans or layaway options. Some bridal shops may allow you to pay half the price upfront and the remaining amount at a later date, which can help make your dream dress more affordable.
- Be respectful: When negotiating, always remember to be respectful and polite. Express your love for the dress and explain your budget concerns. If you are willing to purchase immediately at your desired price, let them know, as they may be more inclined to accommodate your request.
Remember that while negotiating may be possible at some boutiques, it is not a common practice in the bridal fashion industry. Be prepared to explore other options if your negotiation attempts are unsuccessful.
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Attend a designer trunk show
Attending a designer trunk show is a great way to get a deal on your wedding dress. Trunk shows are special events hosted by boutiques that showcase a curated collection from a specific designer. They are a unique opportunity for brides to see a wider variety of gowns from that designer, including styles that may not usually be available in-store.
Trunk shows are a great opportunity to shop for a wider selection of dresses than what is typically available in-store. They get their name from the days when designers would bring their new designs from store to store in trunks. If there's a particular wedding dress designer you love, keeping an eye out for a trunk show is a great way to shop for a wider variety of their designs.
Trunk shows usually only last a weekend or two, so it's important to be ready to purchase if you're looking for a specific gown during a trunk show. There is typically a discount associated with trunk shows, so it's a great way to get a deal on your dress. It's also a chance to buy a gown before the line is officially released to the public, and there may be special incentives for those who decide on a dress during their appointment.
To find local wedding gown trunk shows, follow your favourite designers and bridal salons on social media, where they will often post about upcoming events. You can also call your local bridal salon to inquire about any upcoming trunk shows or use online resources to locate bridal salons in your area.
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Buy preowned or second-hand
If you're looking for a wedding dress on a budget, one great option is to buy a pre-owned, used, or second-hand dress. This option allows you to find your dream dress at a fraction of the cost of a new gown. Here are some tips for buying a pre-owned wedding dress:
Start by checking out online marketplaces that specialize in pre-owned wedding dresses, such as Stillwhite, Borrowing Magnolia, and Nearly Newlywed. These platforms offer a wide variety of designer and custom-made gowns at affordable prices. With over 97,000 dresses to choose from, you can browse through different styles, designers, and sizes to find the perfect one for you.
Once you've found a dress that catches your eye, take advantage of the platform's messaging system to connect securely with the seller. Ask any questions you may have about the dress, and don't be afraid to request additional photos or details to make an informed decision.
When you're ready to make the purchase, finalize the details with the seller and proceed with the checkout process. These platforms often offer secure payment methods to ensure a safe transaction. After completing the payment, all you need to do is wait for your dream dress to be delivered!
Another benefit of buying a pre-owned wedding dress is the sustainability factor. By choosing a pre-loved gown, you're reducing waste and giving a dress another lease of life, which is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally conscious.
Remember, buying a pre-owned wedding dress doesn't mean compromising on style or quality. With a wide range of options available, you can find a dress that makes you feel like a princess on your special day, without breaking the bank.
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Shop online
Shopping online for a wedding dress can be a convenient and cost-effective way to find your dream dress. There are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a positive experience and a great deal. Firstly, do your research. Consult with a personal stylist or use an online bridal boutique's virtual consultation to get clear on your wants and needs. Order swatches of the fabric to ensure the colour and texture are what you expect. Know your measurements, as bridal gowns require specific measurements beyond standard dress sizes.
There are many benefits to shopping online for your wedding dress. You can compare several websites to get the best deal and take advantage of frequent online promotions. You will also have access to a much larger selection of designer wedding dresses from the comfort of your home. Online shopping allows you to browse different styles, sizes, and designers that might not be available in-store. Websites like Lulus offer a wide range of affordable options, with prices starting at just $79 for a wedding dress. They also offer free shipping on orders over $50 and free exchanges, making it convenient and budget-friendly.
Another benefit of shopping online is the ability to buy pre-owned or second-hand dresses at a fraction of the cost. Websites like Stillwhite offer a large selection of pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses, allowing you to find a designer gown at a discounted price. You can also consider buying from online sample sales hosted by bridal stores. These sales offer dresses at a large discount as stores need to clear their inventory to make room for new gowns. However, keep in mind that sample gowns may require additional costs for shipping, alterations, repairs, and cleaning.
To ensure a positive online shopping experience, always buy from reputable retailers. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Read reviews and look at customer photos to get a better idea of what to expect. You can also try on similar gowns in-store and then compare prices online to find the best deal. By combining research, reviews, and price comparisons, you can find your dream wedding dress online at a great price.
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Start shopping early
When it comes to wedding dress shopping, it's better to start early. This gives you more options and helps you avoid rush fees. Ideally, you should start shopping for your wedding dress between nine months to a year before your wedding date. This is because different designers offer different lead times, and starting early ensures you have the choice of any gown without having to pay rush fees for the dress or alterations.
While you can shop as early as you want, most bridal salons recommend shopping at least nine to twelve months in advance. This is because some gowns take six to nine months to come in and then another two to three months for alterations. Starting early also means you'll be ahead of any shipping delays and can scope out any delays with alterations. You can also take your time and avoid feeling pressured to make a purchase right away, which could lead to an impulse buy and buyer's remorse.
According to data, most people visited two stores before making a selection, so you may need to account for this in your timeline. If you're interested in customising your gown in any way, it's especially important to start the process early. You should also have your wedding venue booked before you start shopping, as this will help you narrow down your vision and ensure your dress suits the locale.
At the three-month mark, your dress should be finished and at the salon. This is also when you should start thinking about your accessories, such as your veil, jewellery, and shoes, so you can get an early glimpse of your full bridal look.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few ways to get a deal on a wedding dress. Firstly, you can buy pre-owned, second-hand, or sample dresses from sites like Stillwhite, which offers designer dresses at affordable prices. You can also rent a wedding dress from sites like Rent the Runway and Nearly Newlywed. If you want a new dress, you can attend a designer trunk show, which usually offers discounts, or buy directly from the manufacturer, like David's or Alfred Angelo, to avoid retailer markups. You can also try negotiating with bridal shops, especially if you're willing to buy the sample gown.
There are many sites that offer discounted wedding dresses online, including TheDressWarehouse, David's Bridal, Azazie, Lulus, ASOS, and Meshki. These sites offer a range of styles, sizes, and price points, so you can find a dress that fits your budget.
The price of alterations depends on the complexity of the changes, so it's a good idea to get a consultation with a tailor to understand the cost. You can also consider buying a simpler dress, as alterations for intricate designs may be more expensive.
