Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dresses are expensive, with the average wedding dress costing around $2000. However, there are many ways to get a wedding dress quickly without breaking the bank. From shopping at affordable retailers like Lulus, BHLDN, Torrid, and ASOS, to buying second-hand or from clearance sections, brides on a budget can find high-quality, stylish gowns for under $1000, or even under $500. Starting the search early is key to getting a good deal, as it gives you more options and helps you avoid rush fees.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Budget | $40-$530 |
| Websites | Lulus, BHLDN, Torrid, ASOS, Azazie, Luxe Redux Bridal, TheDressWarehouse |
| Tips | Start early, choose simplicity, off-the-rack, trunk shows, rentals |
| Fitting | Street size, height, budget, and other preferences |
Explore related products
$56.99 $62.99
What You'll Learn
Buy from a fast-fashion site
If you're looking for a wedding dress quickly, one option is to buy from a fast-fashion site. Fast fashion sites typically offer a wide range of clothing, including wedding dresses, at very affordable prices.
One popular fast-fashion site for wedding dresses is Lulus, which offers a range of styles, including sweetheart neckline gowns with slits, halter necklines, and fit-and-flare silhouettes, with prices starting as low as $40 and never exceeding $530. Lulus also offers the convenience of one-stop shopping, allowing you to order bridesmaid dresses and honeymoon clothes alongside your wedding dress.
Another option is to explore second-hand fast-fashion sites, such as Poshmark, Mercari, Depop, or eBay. These sites offer the opportunity to find unique pieces at even lower prices, and you can often find wedding dresses that have been donated by previous brides or salons and designers. One user recommends stillwhite, a charity organization where you can filter dresses by height, size, budget, and other preferences, and then message sellers for more information. The money spent on dresses from this site is donated to cancer research, and there is no tax added to the listed prices.
While fast-fashion sites can offer convenience and affordability, it's important to keep in mind that these sites often utilize unethical practices, such as sweatshop labor and a disregard for the environment. Additionally, the quality of the clothing may not always meet your expectations, and it's important to be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.
When buying from a fast-fashion site, consider the following tips:
- Buy only what you need and make sure the purchase is rational.
- Extend the life of the garment by buying quality pieces that will last longer and won't need to be replaced as often.
- If possible, opt for natural fibres and affordable items that are made from sustainable materials.
Bustling a Wedding Dress: Ribbon Ties for a Perfect Fit
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Buy second-hand
If you're looking to get a wedding dress fast, one option is to buy second-hand. This can be a more sustainable and affordable choice, as you can often find designer gowns at a fraction of the cost of buying new. Here are some tips for buying a second-hand wedding dress:
Stillwhite
Stillwhite is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses, with over 97,000 wedding gowns for sale. You can browse through hundreds of designers and pay securely using PayPal. Stillwhite also offers the option to sell your dress after your wedding, recouping some of your money. Their website includes prices, and they do not charge tax.
Borrowing Magnolia
Borrowing Magnolia is a platform for buying and selling pre-owned, used, new, and sample wedding dresses. They offer a transparent and user-friendly website, making it easy to find and purchase your dream dress. They also emphasize the sustainability aspect of buying second-hand, appealing to environmentally conscious brides.
Nearly Newlywed
Nearly Newlywed is another website that connects buyers and sellers of wedding dresses, helping both save money. They offer new, used, and sample wedding dresses and have been in business since 2004. Their website includes tips and insights for brides-to-be.
Reddit Recommendations
One user on Reddit recommends Stillwhite, sharing their positive experience of finding a dress within their budget that didn't require any alterations. Another user suggests checking out dresses that aren't necessarily labeled as "wedding dresses" to find more affordable options. Additionally, they mention a charity organization where other brides donate their dresses, with the money from sales going to cancer research.
Renting a Wedding Dress: Is It Possible?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$42.99
Rent a dress
If you're looking for a wedding dress and need it fast, one option is to rent a dress. Renting a wedding dress is a great way to save money and access designer pieces that might otherwise be out of your budget. It's also a more sustainable option, as it reduces waste by giving dresses a second wear.
There are several places where you can rent a wedding dress online. Nuuly, for example, offers a range of on-trend styles for bridal dress rentals, including plus and petite sizes. For $98 a month, you can rent any six items from their selection of thousands of styles and hundreds of brands, including Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban Outfitters. They also offer plenty of options for bridesmaids and wedding guests.
Another popular option is Rent the Runway, which provides access to designer fashion at half the price. They offer a clothing subscription service, as well as the option to rent without a subscription. You can keep items for as long as you want, and they have a flexible customer promise with no questions asked. They also have a range of luxury, black-tie-worthy gowns perfect for mothers of the bride and groom.
If you're looking for a more traditional bridal shopping experience, you might consider a charity bridal store. These stores offer donated dresses from other brides, salons, and designers, which they professionally clean before selling at affordable prices. This option allows you to try on dresses in person and avoid the pressure of buying from a bridal store.
When renting a wedding dress, it's important to consider your timeline and any potential delays. Be sure to check the rental company's policies and plan accordingly to ensure your dress arrives on time for your big day.
Wedding Dress Alterations: How Many Sizes Can You Go Down?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Choose a simple design
If you're looking to get a wedding dress quickly, choosing a simple design is a great option. Simple wedding dresses are often characterised by their streamlined silhouettes, uncomplicated designs, and timeless aesthetic. This minimalist style is widely loved as it allows the bride's natural beauty to shine through. Here are some tips to help you choose and acquire a simple wedding dress swiftly:
Opt for Minimalist Designers and Retailers
Some designers and retailers are known for their elegant and minimalist bridal designs. Kleinfeld Bridal, for instance, offers a range of simple yet luxurious wedding gowns. They have a variety of sleek and streamlined styles, including slip dresses and ball gowns, made with fabrics such as satin, mikado, crepe, and chiffon. Other renowned designers like Sareh Nouri, Rivini, and Amsale also offer exquisite collections of simple wedding gowns with luxurious fabrics and chic designs.
Additionally, fast-fashion sites like Lulus offer their own label of wedding dresses at very affordable price points, with some gowns starting as low as $40. ASOS is another great option for affordable and simple wedding dresses, with gowns priced under $1,000.
Embrace the Simplicity
The beauty of simple wedding dresses is that they can be extremely versatile. You can opt for a completely unadorned gown, letting the simplicity speak for itself, or you can choose to accessorise with statement pieces like a dramatic veil or earrings. Simple designs also provide a blank canvas for creative freedom when it comes to customisation. You can add subtle textures or details like jacquard fabric, embossed organza, or small-scale embroidery to make your dress more unique without compromising on the minimalist aesthetic.
Size and Fit
To ensure a quick acquisition, it's important to get your measurements right the first time. Take the time to measure yourself accurately, following the instructions provided by the retailer. Most sites will guide you on how to measure your bust, waist, and hips correctly. Getting these measurements right will reduce the need for alterations and ensure a faster turnaround time.
Delivery and Returns
When you're in a hurry, pay close attention to the delivery times and return policies of the retailer. Some sites offer free delivery, but the arrival time can vary from 5 to 15 days, and there may be unforeseen delays. If time is of the essence, consider retailers that provide estimated delivery dates or express shipping options. Additionally, understand the return policy of the retailer. Some sites may charge a return fee, and there are often time constraints and conditions that must be met for a successful return.
Choosing a simple wedding dress can offer a wide variety of options at various price points. With the right retailer and a bit of customisation, you can acquire a beautiful, elegant, and timeless wedding dress swiftly.
The Dream Dress: Your Perfect Wedding Gown
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Buy from a discount retailer
If you're looking for a wedding dress at a discount, there are several retailers to consider, both online and offline.
Online Discount Retailers
The internet offers a plethora of options for brides-to-be looking for a bargain. Here are some websites to explore:
- Stillwhite: This is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses. With over 97,000 wedding gowns for sale, you can find designer and custom-made gowns at affordable prices.
- Nearly Newlywed: This website also offers pre-owned wedding dresses, allowing brides to set their prices and sell directly to other brides.
- Etsy: For vintage lovers, Etsy is a treasure trove of wedding dresses from different eras. You can find boho gowns from the 1970s, mod knee-length dresses from the 1960s, antique cottagecore dresses, and poofy taffeta gowns from the 1980s.
- The Outnet: This website offers designer gowns from previous seasons at major discounts of up to 70% off.
- Lulus: This fast-fashion site offers wedding dresses starting as low as $40, with most gowns priced under $530.
- Azazie: Azazie provides unique and affordable wedding dresses, with prices starting at $149.
- TheDressWarehouse: With dresses starting at $99, TheDressWarehouse offers a wide range of styles, from contemporary to traditional, including A-line gowns, fitted sheath, and mermaid silhouettes.
Offline Discount Retailers
If you prefer to shop in person, you can also find discounts at local bridal salons and designer boutiques. Keep an eye out for seasonal sample sales, which offer significant discounts, usually advertised on their social media pages. Additionally, attending a trunk show is another way to score discounts on designer wedding dresses.
The Perfect Number for Your Wedding Dress Shopping Crew
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are several online retailers and labels that offer affordable wedding dresses, such as BHLDN, Torrid, and ASOS, Lulus, Azazie, Luxe Redux Bridal, and TheDressWarehouse. These websites offer a range of styles, sizes, and prices, with some dresses starting as low as $40.
Start your search early to avoid rush fees. Consider attending a designer's trunk show, where you can often find discounts, and look for budget-friendly alternatives to achieve your desired look, such as a sequined belt instead of a fully beaded gown.
Be open-minded and consider dresses that may not be labelled specifically as wedding dresses. Don't be afraid to explore second-hand options, as you can often find gently used or sample dresses at a fraction of the cost.
Yes, some websites like stillwhite offer filters for height, size, budget, and other preferences, making it easier to find dresses within your desired criteria.
It is recommended to purchase your wedding dress at least nine months before your wedding day to avoid rush fees and give yourself enough time to make alterations if needed.
