Your wedding dress is probably the most important purchase you’ll make for your big day. But with the average cost of a wedding dress now exceeding $1,000, it’s also one of the most expensive.
Don’t let the cost of your dress blow your budget. Here are some tips on how to save money on your wedding dress:
1. Shop around. Compare prices at different stores before settling on a particular dress.
2. Consider buying a used dress. You can find great deals on pre-owned dresses at consignment shops or online auction sites like eBay.
3. Have your dress made by a local tailor or seamstress. This can be a cheaper option than buying a ready-made gown from a bridal salon.
4. Look for sales and coupons. Many bridal stores offer discounts on dresses during special sales events throughout the year. And don’t forget to check for coupons before you make your purchase!
5. Think outside the traditional wedding dress box. There’s no rule that says you have to buy a white gown to wear on your big day. If you’re open to other color options, you may be able to find a cheaper dress that still meets your needs and wants.
Shop around for the best deals on wedding dresses.
The average cost of a wedding dress is $1,000, but it’s not uncommon for dresses to cost much more. If you’re shopping on a budget, there are a few ways you can save money on your wedding dress.
First, consider shopping at off-season sales. Many bridal stores have end-of-season sales where you can save up to 50% on dresses that are being discontinued. You can also check sample sales at bridal stores or trunk shows. These sales usually happen a few times a year and they’re a great way to find discounts on designer dresses.
Another way to save money is to shop at consignment stores or online resellers. There are a number of websites that sell new and gently used wedding dresses at a fraction of the retail price. And finally, don’t forget to bargain! It’s not uncommon to negotiate on the price of a dress, especially if you’re buying off the rack.
Compare prices online and in stores.
Wedding dress prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. The best way to save money on your wedding dress is to compare prices online and in stores. You can often find amazing deals on dresses that are selling for much more in bridal shops.
There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for your dress online. First, make sure you understand the return policy. Some stores will only allow returns if the dress is unaltered, so it’s important to know whether you can make changes to the dress if it doesn’t fit properly.
Also, be aware of the shipping costs. Some stores charge exorbitant fees for shipping, so it’s important to factor that into the cost of the dress. Finally, be sure to read the reviews before purchasing any dress online. This will give you a good idea of what other brides have experienced with the store and the quality of the dress.
Look for sales and discounts.
There are a number of ways to save money on your wedding dress. One way is to look for sales and discounts. Many bridal shops have sales throughout the year, so it’s worth checking their websites and social media accounts to see when their next sale is taking place. You can also sign up for their newsletters to stay informed about upcoming sales.
Another way to save money on your wedding dress is to buy a used dress. There are a number of websites and Facebook groups dedicated to selling used wedding dresses. You can also check consignment stores or thrift stores for wedding dresses. Keep in mind that you may need to have the dress altered to fit properly, so factor that into the cost.
If you’re not opposed to renting a dress, that can also be a way to save money. There are a number of companies that specialize in renting out designer wedding dresses. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a high-end dress but don’t want to spend the money to purchase one outright.
Buy a used or vintage dress.
If you have your heart set on a designer gown, you can often find one new or used at a steep discount. Just be sure to have the dress cleaned and inspected by a seamstress before you wear it.
You can also search for a vintage dress at consignment shops, thrift stores, or even on sites like eBay and Etsy. Be sure to factor in the cost of alterations when considering a used gown, as they can be significant.
Rent a dress instead of buying one.
Wedding dresses can be very expensive, so if you’re looking to save some money, you may want to consider renting a dress instead of buying one. There are a few things to keep in mind when you’re looking to rent a dress, however.
First, make sure you understand the rental agreement. Most rental companies will require you to return the dress in the same condition that you received it in, so if there are any damage or stains, you may be charged a cleaning fee.
Second, be sure to try on the dress before you rent it. This will ensure that it fits properly and that you’re comfortable wearing it.
Finally, make sure you have a backup plan in case something happens to the dress before or during your wedding. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
Have a friend or family member make your dress.
One way to save a ton of money on your wedding dress is to have someone you know make it for you. This could be a friend who is a seamstress or a family member who knows their way around a sewing machine. You can provide them with a picture of the dress you want or even take them to pick it out with you, and then they can get to work creating it. This is often a much cheaper option than buying a dress outright, and it also gives you the opportunity to have someone close to you make your dream dress come true.
Choose a less expensive dress style.
There are many ways to save money on your wedding dress. One way is to choose a less expensive dress style. For example, a tea-length dress is typically less expensive than a full-length gown. Another way to save money is to buy a used or consignment dress. You can also shop at sample sales or trunk shows, where you may be able to find a designer dress at a deep discount.
Shop at thrift stores or consignment shops.
If you’re not opposed to wearing a dress that’s been worn before, shopping at a consignment shop or thrift store can be a great way to find a cheaper wedding dress. You might have to do some digging, but you’ll likely be able to find a dress in your budget.
Consignment shops are generally higher-end than thrift stores, so you may be able to find a nicer dress at one of these stores. But thrift stores can also be worth checking out—you never know what you might find!