Finding the perfect wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of planning your big day. However, wedding dresses can also be one of the most expensive parts of a wedding. The average cost of a wedding dress in the US is over $1,500. But there are plenty of places where budget-conscious brides can find beautiful dresses for a fraction of that price.
Brides on a budget have lots of options, from department stores to sample sales to consignment shops and more. With some savvy shopping skills, flexibility, and creativity, you can find your dream dress without breaking the bank. Read on for tips on where to shop and what to look for to find wedding dresses on a budget.
Department Stores
Department stores like David’s Bridal, JCPenney, Macy’s and Nordstrom offer a wide variety of affordable wedding dresses. Many have dresses available for under $500, with some under $200. The convenience of being able to try on dresses at your local mall makes department stores an easy first stop when dress shopping on a budget.
What to Look For
- Simple silhouettes without a lot of embellishments, which tend to raise costs
- “Off the rack” dresses ready to purchase rather than specially ordered
- Dresses from their affordable private label collections
Tips for Saving
- Ask about upcoming sales – department stores often run specials like “$99 dress event”
- Sign up for email lists to get notifications about sales or coupons
- Be open to purchasing a floor sample, which may have a deep discount
Online Retailers and Sample Sales
Online wedding dress retailers can offer big savings because they have lower overhead costs than brick and mortar stores. Popular online sites where brides have found budget-friendly dresses include Azazie, JJ’s House, Cocomelody, LaceMarry and more.
Many designers and bridal salons also hold sample sales a few times a year to sell off discontinued dresses and samples. Sample gowns have usually only been tried on in store and often have great discounts up to 50-75% off retail pricing. Check sites like PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com and StillWhite.com for listings of upcoming sample sales in your area.
What to Look For
- Dresses with damage that can be easily fixed, like a missing button
- Popular dress silhouettes that never seem to go out of style
Tips for Saving
- Compare online retailer return policies – some impose hefty restocking fees if you need to return a dress after you order it
- Arrive early at sample sales for the best selection
- Bring a sewing kit and fashion tape to make easy fixes to damaged sample dresses
Consignment Shops and Rental Services
Used wedding dresses that are gently worn can often be found for up to 90% off retail prices. Many consignment shops and websites like StillWhite, Nearly Newlywed and Encore Bridal carry previously worn designer gowns. PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com also lists brick and mortar consignment shops across the US.
For those who want a designer dress but are on an extra tight budget, dress rental services allow you to borrow a gown for the day. Sites like Rent the Runway and Union Station Fashion offer high end designer dresses for a fraction of the cost to buy.
What to Look For
- Designer dresses, which tend to retain value and have higher resale prices
- Gently used dresses that have been professionally cleaned
Tips for Saving
- Take your own measurements so you can accurately filter dress listings by size
- For rentals, reserve your dress far in advance so you get your preferred choice
- Allow extra time and budget for getting a rented or used dress properly cleaned and fitted to you before the wedding
Vintage and Secondhand Dresses
Vintage wedding gowns from previous eras like the 50s, 60s and 70s can provide serious style at affordable costs. Beautiful used vintage wedding dresses can be found at vintage clothing stores, secondhand stores, antique shops, by searching online sites like Etsy, eBay, and through vintage resellers on Instagram and Facebook.
You can also repurpose old formal dresses, like quinceanera gowns, evening gowns or prom dresses to use as wedding dresses. Even your own mother or grandmother’s wedding dress from decades past can be remade into a unique vintage inspired gown.
What to Look For
- Classic silhouettes that can be easily updated, like A-line and ballgown dresses
- Dresses with good bones that fit your top half, since altering skirts and hems is easier than adjusting bodices
Tips for Saving
- Search local vintage shops in wealthy neighborhoods, where people are more likely to have sold high quality vintage finds
- When shopping online vintage sites, study photos closely to spot any damage or wear and tear
- Hire a skilled seamstress to make needed alterations to get a vintage or repurposed dress fitting just right
DIY Your Wedding Dress
For the crafty bride with serious sewing skills, designing and creating your own wedding dress can save you hundreds. Pick up an affordable pattern and fabric from your local fabric store or shop for supplies online. Lace, tulle and chiffon are popular fabrics choices for DIY wedding dresses.
If going the total DIY route feels too ambitious, you can also just add lace overlays, embellished belts and other accents to an affordable base dress purchased online or at a department store.
What to Look For
- Simple dress silhouettes without a lot of embellishment or detail, which are easier to sew
- High quality, colorfast fabrics that won’t fade or bleed when cleaned
Tips for Saving
- Practice sewing samples using your planned fabrics first to get comfortable sewing them
- Find a talented local alterations tailor who can help if you get stuck or need guidance
- Give yourself plenty of time in case you need to redo sections
Finding wedding dresses on a budget takes some effort and flexibility, but determined brides can uncover beautiful affordable options. From department store deals to consignment treasures to DIY projects, there are so many places to look beyond expensive bridal boutiques. Information is key, so do your research, ask questions, and happy deal hunting for the budget wedding dress of your dreams!
