Tips for Affordable Wedding Dresses

So he’s popped the question and soon you’ll be walking down the aisle. What will you be wearing? If you’re not careful, you might be shelling out the equivalent of a few mortgage payments on your wedding dress. Or, you could find an affordable wedding gown, and spend the savings on setting up house.

Here’s how:

1. Save on the fabric. Get your dream, couture wedding dress but save 15-35% by ordering it in a cheaper fabric. Modern synthetics look great and are affordable. Also, choose a simple silhouette. The more fabric you use, the more it will cost.

2. Surf the net. There are many sites that sell off last season’s wedding dresses and remainders at affordable prices. Check out Ever After Formal Wear for an affordable wedding gown between $300-1000.

3. Cut down on extras. Splurge on a gorgeous wedding dresses but skip the veil, hairpiece, train and gloves. Forgo the lace and beading.

4. Shop sample sales. You may be able to get a great deal at a bridal shop sample sale. In December and May, they sell off their inventory to make room for the new wedding designs. You’ll have to be slim for this one though: most samples are a size 8.

5. Be a bridesmaid. Why not try on a bridesmaid dress? You can usually get one in white if you are a traditionalist. Try this site at Best Bridesmaid Dresses and find what your looking for.

6. Rent a wedding gown. You won’t have as much selection as when you buy, so look early.

7. Buy used or borrow one. Look in consignment stores. Wear your mother’s wedding dress.

8. Sell your gown. Consignment stores and gown rental boutiques will often sell your gown for you. Or post a description of it on the message board at wedding dresses website.