Junior Rasmussen
Shopping for a wedding dress can be a stressful experience, especially if you want to look your best and respect the dress code. There are a variety of places to shop for wedding guest dresses, both online and in-store. Online retailers such as Lulus, Reformation, Petal & Pup, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Nuuly, ASOS, and more offer a range of styles, colours, and price points to choose from. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, renting a dress from Rent the Runway or buying from Amazon can be a great choice. For in-store shopping, department stores like Macy's or JCPenney offer a variety of wedding guest outfits, including formal maxi dresses, floral prints, and cocktail dresses. Ultimately, the right dress for you will depend on factors such as the wedding's dress code, location, season, and your personal style.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Retailers | Lulus, Reformation, Petal & Pup, Abercrombie & Fitch, REVOLVE, Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Nuuly, ASOS, Mac Duggal, ELOQUII, Sachin & Babi, ASTR The Label, Saks Fifth Avenue, Rent The Runway, FARM Rio, Hello Molly, Showpo, LoveShac, Macy's, JCPenney, Dillard's, Azazie Atelier, The RealReal |
| Style | Cocktail, semi-formal, maxi, floral, sheath, jumpsuit, two-piece, black-tie, beach, bohemian, lace, midi, satin, silk, pastel, neutral, colourful, bright, dark, velvet, scarf, wrap |
| Accessories | Heels, necklace, earrings, handbag, jewellery, sandals |
| Price | $400-$50, $200, $50, 20% off first-time purchases, 15% off, free shipping over $50, free shipping over $80, free return shipping |
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What You'll Learn
Budget-friendly options
If you're looking for a budget-friendly wedding dress, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some tips and suggestions to help you find the perfect dress without breaking the bank:
Online retailers
There are several online retailers that offer a wide range of affordable wedding dresses. ASOS, for example, has an in-house bridal line with most gowns priced under $300, and many under $200. Lulus is another great option, with wedding dresses starting as low as $40 and never exceeding $530. Their "Captured Your Heart" dress, with a halter neckline and fit-and-flare silhouette, is a steal at just $99. For a more extensive selection, try Azazie, where you'll find stylish and quality wedding dresses ranging from $200 to $399. If you're looking for a designer dress on a budget, TheDressWarehouse offers discounted prices on designer gowns, with options starting at just $99.
In-person shopping
If you prefer to shop in person, there are a few options to consider. Bridal salons typically carry a wide selection of wedding gowns at affordable prices, so it's worth visiting a local bridal shop to browse their selection. Department stores like Macy's and Nordstrom Rack are also great places to find budget-friendly options, especially if you're short on time.
Renting
Rent the Runway is a popular option for those looking to stay within a budget. By renting a dress, you can access designer styles without the hefty price tag.
Second-hand
For those with a little more time to spare before the wedding, second-hand websites and stores can be a great way to find a unique dress on a budget. The RealReal, for example, offers a range of NWT (new with tags) dresses at heavily discounted prices.
Customisable gowns
If you're looking for a customisable gown that won't break the bank, Cocomelody is a bridal brand that offers affordable and easily customisable gowns in a vast variety of sizes.
Little white dresses
A little white dress is a classic and versatile option that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. They are usually more affordable than traditional wedding gowns and can be found at various online retailers, such as Azazie and Lulus.
No matter your budget, there are plenty of options available to help you look and feel your best on your wedding day.
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Dressing for the season
When it comes to wedding attire, it's essential to consider the season to ensure you're both comfortable and stylish. Here are some tips for dressing for a wedding according to the season:
Spring
Spring is a season of renewal and freshness, calling for light, bright, and floral outfits. For a spring wedding, opt for cool, breezy fabrics that flow easily. Sleeveless and strapless gowns are excellent choices, but if you prefer something more covered, cap sleeve or three-quarter-length sleeve gowns in lace or sheer fabric can be comfortable and elegant. A-line or sheath silhouettes are ideal for outdoor weddings, offering simplicity and comfort. If the wedding is indoors, you have endless options, from lace and embellished gowns to rich ball gowns.
Summer
Summer is the season for destination and beach weddings. Light fabrics such as batiste, chiffon, crepe, and tulle are perfect for warm weather. Consider a short dress or a flowy silhouette to keep you cool and comfortable.
Autumn/Fall
Autumn and fall weddings are becoming increasingly popular for their romantic and budget-friendly appeal. The colours of nature during this season are lush, and the temperatures are more comfortable than in summer. Consider a dress with vintage-inspired details or rich, autumnal hues like reds and browns. Satin and silk ball gowns or mermaid dresses can be a sophisticated choice for this season.
Winter
With the cool weather of winter, layering is essential. If you choose a strapless gown, accessorise with a stole, wrap, or bolero for added warmth. Winter weddings often exude sophistication, so consider elegant fabrics like satin and silk.
General Tips
- When shopping for a wedding guest dress, consider the style, season, location, and dress code of the event.
- Opt for versatile styles that you can wear again.
- Don't be afraid to rent a dress or buy second-hand to save money and reduce waste.
- Complete your look with accessories, such as an evening clutch or a statement necklace.
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Dress codes and colours
When choosing a dress to wear to a wedding, it's important to consider the dress code and any colours mentioned in the invitation. Dress codes can vary depending on the style, season, and location of the wedding, so it's essential to choose an outfit that aligns with the specified dress code and complements the wedding theme.
For black-tie weddings, it is recommended to stick to solid colours and minimise dress patterns. Popular choices for guest attire include pastel tints, neutral tones, or vibrant colours that complement the wedding colour scheme or the season. For example, bright and bold sage green and dusty blue are great for spring and summer weddings, while darker hues are more suitable for fall and winter weddings.
If the wedding is semi-formal or cocktail attire, you can opt for a dress with a hint of personality and colour. Floral prints and shimmering satin are perfect for outdoor and garden weddings. For a beach wedding, a timeless classic like a black jumpsuit or a semi-formal emerald green jumpsuit can be a great choice.
You can also add accessories to complete your look, such as jewellery, shoes, and a handbag. A scarf or wrap can also be a fashionable and practical addition if the wedding is outdoors or in a chilly venue.
It's important to remember that each wedding is different, and your choice of dress should respect the dress code, location, and your relationship with the couple.
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Accessories and shoes
For footwear, you have several options depending on the style and venue of the wedding. Heels are a classic choice for formal weddings, and you can find a variety of styles such as stilettos or pumps to match your dress. For a more comfortable option, flats or dressy sandals can be a great choice, especially for outdoor or beach weddings. If you're feeling bold, a pair of beige heels can perfectly complement a semi-formal jumpsuit.
If you're looking for accessories and shoes to match your wedding guest dress, several retailers offer a wide range of options. Petal & Pup, for instance, offers colourful and trendy styles, including accessories and shoes to complete your look. JCPenney also provides a range of accessories, such as evening clutches and sling bags, to complement their dress collection.
Additionally, don't forget to consider the venue and season of the wedding when choosing your accessories and shoes. If it's an outdoor wedding in a chilly venue, a scarf or wrap can be both fashionable and practical. For beach weddings, you might opt for more casual footwear, while a black-tie affair calls for more elegant and formal options.
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Renting vs buying
There are many places to find a nice dress for a wedding, from department stores to online retailers. Department stores like JCPenney offer a wide selection of dresses for wedding guests, ranging from classic cocktail dresses to floor-length statement pieces. Online retailers such as Lulus, Reformation, Petal & Pup, and Abercrombie & Fitch also offer a variety of styles and price points for wedding guest dresses.
Now, let's discuss the advantages and disadvantages of renting vs. buying a dress for a wedding.
Renting a Dress
Renting a dress is a practical and cost-effective option, especially for one-time events like weddings. It allows you to access premium brands and designer gowns at a fraction of the retail price. For example, services like Rent the Runway offer designer dresses for rent at affordable prices. This option is ideal if you want to wear a high-end fashion piece without the hefty price tag. Additionally, rental services often include dry cleaning and maintenance, ensuring you receive a dress in excellent condition.
However, one drawback of renting is the limited alteration options available. Rental dresses may not fit your body type perfectly, and last-minute shoppers might find their desired dress already reserved.
Buying a Dress
Buying a dress gives you the freedom to modify and customize it according to your preferences and body type. You can also reuse the dress for other formal events, making it a more cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, buying a dress ensures you have it forever, allowing you to build sentimental value over time.
On the other hand, purchasing a dress, especially a designer one, can be a significant investment. It requires additional expenses for cleaning, storage, and possible repairs. If you don't frequently attend formal events, the dress may end up spending most of its time in your closet.
In conclusion, when deciding between renting and buying a dress for a wedding, consider your budget, the frequency of formal events you attend, and your preference for customization. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances.
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Frequently asked questions
Lulus is a great place to find a wedding guest dress on a budget. They have a large selection of dresses for every style and dress code, including cute alternatives like jumpsuits and two-pieces. You can filter by neckline, sleeve length, dress length, and color.
If you're looking for a dress that aligns with a specific dress code, like black tie, formal, semi-formal, or casual, you may want to check out Azazie Atelier. They offer a wide variety of sizes and styles, and you can filter by size, silhouette, length, occasion, fabric, wedding location, dress code, season, and theme.
If you're looking for a dress that complements the wedding's color scheme, pastel tints, neutral tones, or vibrant colors that match the season might be a good choice. You can try searching for dresses at your local mall department store or online at places like JCPenney, which offers a wide selection of dresses in a range of colors, prints, and embellishments.
