Getting ready for your dream wedding can be an exciting time, but the cost of the wedding dress can quickly become a nightmare. However, don't let the price tag discourage you, there are ways to find beautiful wedding dresses without breaking the bank. This article provides seven tips for bargain hunting wedding dresses.
- Shop end-of-season sales: Bridal stores typically have end-of-season sales, usually in the fall and winter months where you can snag a wedding dress at a great discount.
- Browse sample sales: Bridal boutiques often have sample sales where you can get a designer dress at a fraction of the cost. Be open and flexible with style and size options.
- Consider renting: Renting a wedding dress is an increasingly popular option that can save you a significant amount of money. A variety of styles and sizes are offered by rental services.
- Look for pre-owned dresses: Websites such as eBay, Poshmark, or Stillwhite offer gently used, high-end wedding dresses at an affordable price.
- Shop off-the-rack: Ready-to-wear wedding dresses are available at department stores or bridal outlets at a fraction of the cost compared to custom-made gowns.
- Consider non-traditional dresses: Non-traditional dresses such as maxi or cocktail dresses can be just as stunning and can save you a significant amount of money. Look for dresses in white or ivory to keep the bridal feel.
- Don't forget about alterations: Customizing a less expensive dress with alterations can create a unique and beautiful look. Adding lace, beading, or a train can transform a simple dress into a stunning one.
Remember, finding the perfect wedding dress doesn't have to mean breaking the bank. Consider these tips when shopping and you will be able to find a beautiful dress at an affordable price.
1. Shop end-of-season sales
If you're looking to save money on your wedding dress, one option is to shop end-of-season sales. Bridal season typically lasts from spring to summer, with new collections coming out in the fall. This means that many bridal boutiques need to clear out their inventory to make room for new styles and thus offer discounts on last season's dresses.
The end-of-season sales usually take place in the fall or winter months. By waiting until the end of the season to buy your dress, you can get a beautiful dress that may have been out of your original budget range. These sales can sometimes offer discounts of up to 50% off the original price!
When shopping end-of-season sales, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, make sure you have an idea of the style and silhouette you want before you start shopping. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure you find a dress that you love.
Second, be open to dresses that may not be the exact color or size you envisioned. Often, end-of-season sales only have a select number of dresses available, so you may need to be flexible with your expectations.
Overall, shopping end-of-season sales can be a great way to save money on your wedding dress without sacrificing style or quality. It just takes a bit of patience and the willingness to be flexible.
2. Browse sample sales
Another way to save money on your wedding dress is by checking out sample sales at bridal boutiques. These sales can offer designer dresses at a fraction of the cost. While you may have to be flexible with the size and style options available, it can be worth it for the incredible deals you can find.
During sample sales, boutiques bring out dresses that have been used as samples for brides to try on. These dresses may have small imperfections or may have been discontinued, but they are still stunning. The best part is, you can often buy these dresses at a much lower cost.
It's important to note that sample dresses may not be available in your exact size, so you may need to have the dress altered. However, even with the additional cost of alterations, you can still save a significant amount of money on your dream dress.
If you're interested in browsing sample sales, be sure to check with your local bridal boutiques to see when they will be holding their next sale. It's important to act fast, however, as sample sales typically only last a couple of days before all the dresses are sold.
In addition to saving money on your dress, browsing sample sales can also be a fun and exciting experience. You never know what hidden treasure you might find to make your wedding day even more special.
3. Consider renting
If you're looking for ways to save some extra money on your wedding expenses, renting a wedding dress is an excellent option. Not only can it save you a significant amount of money, but it's also a sustainable option.
Many bridal shops and online stores offer rental services, providing you a vast selection of dresses to choose from in various sizes and styles. You can opt for a wedding dress that fits your specific style, body type, and budget. You can also rent accessories like veils, tiaras, or statement jewelry that can complement your dress without adding extra expenses to your list.
If you're concerned about not being able to try on the dress before renting, most rental services offer trial options. You can choose to rent a sample dress or try the dress on for size before finalizing your rental.
One incredible advantage of renting a wedding dress is that you don't have to worry about cleaning the dress after the wedding or storing it indefinitely. After the event, you can merely return the dress back to the rental company, and they'll take care of everything else. You save time and money that you would typically spend on cleaning or storing your dress.
However, there are a few cons to renting a wedding dress. Suppose you're someone who has dreamed of keeping your dress and passing it down as an heirloom to your future generations. In that case, renting may not be the best option for you. Additionally, you may not be able to alter the dress to fit precisely how you want it.
In conclusion, renting a wedding dress can save you a significant chunk of your budget and offer you a sustainable option. You can find a dress that meets your preferences and looks stunning on your special day while not having to worry about additional cleaning costs or storage issues after the ceremony.
4. Look for pre-owned dresses
Another option for finding a budget-friendly wedding dress is to look for pre-owned dresses. There are several websites such as eBay, Poshmark, and Stillwhite that specialize in pre-owned wedding dresses. It can be a great way to find high-end dresses at a fraction of the original cost. Just be sure to take note of the dress's condition and ask for additional photos if necessary.
If you are hesitant about buying a pre-owned dress, consider the designer or store where it was originally purchased. This can give you more insight into the dress's quality and condition. You can also ask the seller for any information or receipts they have from the original purchase.
When shopping for pre-owned dresses, it's important to keep an open mind. You may not find the exact dress you had in mind, but you might find one that is even better. Be willing to try on a variety of styles and sizes to see what works best for you.
Before making a purchase, make sure to read the seller's return policy and any reviews they may have. It's also a good idea to have the dress cleaned and altered to fit you perfectly. With a little research and effort, you can find a beautiful and unique wedding dress that fits within your budget.
5. Shop off-the-rack
If you're on a tight budget but still want to look stunning on your wedding day, shopping off-the-rack might be your best bet. Department stores, such as Nordstrom or Macy's, often carry a selection of ready-to-wear wedding dresses that can be a fraction of the cost of custom-made gowns.
Bridal outlets are another great option for finding affordable off-the-rack wedding dresses. These stores offer a variety of designer dresses at a significantly lower price point. Similar to sample sales, you may have to be flexible with style and size options, but the savings are worth it.
Shopping off-the-rack can also save you time. Unlike custom-made gowns, which require several fittings and alterations, ready-to-wear dresses can be taken home the same day. This can be especially convenient if you have a short engagement or need a last-minute dress.
When browsing off-the-rack dresses, keep in mind that they may not be exactly what you had in mind. However, don't dismiss a dress just because it's not perfect. Alterations can help transform a dress into the one you've always envisioned, and it can still be significantly cheaper than a custom-made gown.
Overall, shopping off-the-rack is a great option for budget-conscious brides who want a beautiful dress without the hefty price tag.
6. Consider non-traditional dresses
For those looking for a unique twist on their big day, non-traditional wedding dresses may be the perfect fit. Maxi dresses or cocktail dresses in white or ivory can be just as stunning as traditional gowns and can help save you money. Consider browsing department stores or online shops for non-traditional dresses that fit your style and budget.
Another option is to look for dresses in alternative colors. Blush pink, pale blue, and lavender can all add a touch of personality to your gown while keeping the bridal feel intact. You can even go for a patterned dress or one with intricate embroidery for a one-of-a-kind look.
- Consider incorporating non-traditional accessories into your wedding day look. A denim or leather jacket can be a stylish addition to a more casual dress, while statement earrings or a bold necklace can add some glam to a simple gown.
- If you want to keep with tradition but also want to save money, look for bridesmaids dresses in white or ivory. Many designers offer stunning options that are much more budget-friendly than their bridal counterparts.
Remember that the most important thing is to feel beautiful and comfortable on your special day, no matter what you wear. Don't be afraid to break the mold and try something different – you never know, it might just be the best decision you make.
7. Don't forget about alterations
While shopping for wedding dresses, it's important to remember that alterations can make a huge difference in the final look of the dress. Consider purchasing a less expensive dress and investing in alterations to create a customized and one-of-a-kind look for your special day.
When choosing a dress to alter, keep in mind the style and fabric. Adding lace or beading can add intricate details to a simple dress, while a train can create a dramatic effect. Talk to a professional seamstress or tailor to discuss your options and get an idea of the cost.
You can also use alterations to ensure that your wedding dress perfectly fits your body. Take into account any areas that may need to be let out or taken in, especially if your weight fluctuates often. A properly fitting dress will make you feel confident and beautiful on your big day.
If you're on a tight budget, consider buying a dress from a consignment store or off the rack and investing the money you save in alterations. You may even be able to find a vintage gown with beautiful fabric and details that can be transformed into a modern dress.
In addition to creating a unique look, alterations can also help you express your personal style and taste. Whether you opt for a small change like adding straps or a major one like transforming your dress into a two-piece, alterations can truly make your wedding dress your own.