Blogs | Bride to Bride | Affordable Wedding Dresses
July 10, 2008
Affordable Wedding Dresses
While the economy is spiraling out of control and oil prices continue to skyrocket, rumors have begun spinning 'round that the wedding industry is raising its rates as well.
I’m happy to report that you don’t have to spend a fortune on your wedding day to make it the stylish, romantic, amazing event that you and your loved ones will remember for years to come. You can do it on a budget, even a small one.
For instance, that $10,000 Oscar de la Renta gown Katherine Hiegel rocked during her Christmas nuptials last year? Not necessary! You can grab yourself a gown with a style that mirrors your personal taste—no matter how unique—at rock-bottom prices. You just need to know what your options are and where to look.
The Non-Wedding Wedding Dress
Sure, you may not be able to afford the Vera Wang gown of your dreams, but if a designer dress is your wish, it's totally doable! Many designers that cater to the stars create masterpieces for the red carpet in white, silver and ivory. The price tags don't carry that wedding premium, but the fabulous cuts and fashion-forward details are still there. If you're looking for a Non-Wedding Wedding Dress, check out: Nordstrom, Gilt Groupe or Bluefly.
Aidan Mattox Niteline Beaded Keyhole Gown |
Notte by Marchesa Velvet Detail Gown* |
Nicole Miller Antique White Silk Bead Trim Gown |
The Department Store Dress
There are many department, catalog and discount stores designing wedding dresses for the low-budget bride—and they are fabulous. If you're looking for simple and subtle details, these dresses will whet your appetite. If you're looking for a Department Store Dress, check out: JCrew, Target or White House Black Market.
Silk Taffeta Sabine Gown |
Isaac Mizrahi Strapless Sheath Dress |
Montagu Bridal Gown |
The Vintage Dress Vintage is IN!
Those uber-fabulous fifties-inspired short wedding dresses of the past are back. Harness your inner Jackie-O and don a pretty pencil or circle skirt that will allow you to really cut a rug at the reception. These dresses allow you to show off those colored crinolines everyone has been rockin' under the long dresses that tend to mask the fun surprise. If you're looking for a Vintage Dress, check out: Vintageous or Cherished Bride.
Beautiful Beige Organdy Strapless 1950's Cocktail Dress with Appliqués |
Perfect 50's Gown for a Garden Wedding |
The Pre-Worn or Pre-Owned Dress
A brand-new wedding dress is worn for anywhere between 2–12 hours. This being less than an entire day, it's a sad, short life for a precious gown. If you're not concerned about wearing a pre-worn dress, you can find them dry-cleaned and practically brand new on many websites for sale at huge discounts. Some of these dresses are from the many infamous Two-Dress Brides out there who are trying to get rid of their previously perfect dress to wear the one that really makes their heart go pitter patter. These dresses often have not been worn nor have had any alterations made to them—and again, are listed at huge discounts. If you're looking for a Pre-Worn or Pre-Owned Dress, check out: OnceWed or eBay.
Pre-worn Casablanca 1769 |
Melissa Sweet Anastassia Sample |
As you can see, there are a plethora of choices out there for incredible wedding gowns for under $1,000. If all else fails, have your dress made! If you find the right dressmaker, she can re-create that amazingly perfect Vera Wang for a fraction of the cost. The best part is, your alterations will be included!
*Gilt Groupe sales only last 24–48 hours, so check back regularly for the next Notte by Marchesa sale!
Posted by Miss Pomegranate at 10:50 a.m.
Excellent article, Miss P. It covers a lot of different options that most brides wouldn't naturally think of.
Posted By: miss purple
2008-07-12 12:59 AM
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