Now that you’ve snagged the ring and binged all the wedding reality shows, it’s time to find “the one.” But finding a gown for your big day can be a daunting task.
Many bridal dresses are made to order, which means they take weeks or even months to ship. So how can you find your dream dress on a budget? Visit Winsome Brides for advice on finding an inexpensive wedding dress without sacrificing style, along with consign wedding dress near me.
Find Designers That Offer Dresses Within Your Budget
The first step is to think about what you’re looking for in your wedding dress. Consider the dresses you love in your closet and that flatter your figure, such as wrap silhouettes or lace options.
If possible, bring a friend or family member to your appointments who can give you honest feedback about what looks good and which styles look best on you. This will also prevent you from purchasing a dress that you might regret later because you lost weight or changed your mind.
You can also find secondhand designer gowns at consignment stores and websites that specialize in selling bridal attire. Sites like Still White & Nearly Newlywed allow brides to sell their gowns they bought and never wore, gently worn wedding dresses, and even wedding dresses used for photo shoots at a fraction of the retail price. Shoppers can save up to 90% off!
Shop Sample Sales at Local Bridal Boutiques
More and more bridal boutiques are offering sample dresses that have been tried on by previous brides for a discounted price. While these dresses have been worn, they are typically in good condition with only minor blemishes.
If you love the look of a designer dress but are worried about the timing (as most dresses need up to eight months to be made and altered to your exact specifications) shopping a sample sale or trunk show could be an excellent option for you!
If you decide to shop a sample sale, it’s important to have an idea of the styles you like beforehand. Additionally, it’s important to buy a dress that fits within two sizes of your size for easy alterations. This allows you to get the most value out of your gown.
Shop Online
You can find some of your favorite designer dresses at a discount by shopping online. Many of these gowns are re-sold items that were previously purchased by brides, so you can save up to 60% on a dress that may have otherwise been out of your price range. Just make sure you check the return policy and shipping times, and remember that different designers and retailers size their gowns differently.
Before you start your search, take some time to think about what styles flatter your figure and the fabrics you prefer to wear. Also, consider your accessories and what kind of shoes you’ll be wearing, as these will impact the overall look of your wedding day ensemble.
Try on a few dresses before you decide, and don’t be afraid to ask for a discount! Just remember that the dress you choose will be a part of your wedding forever, so it’s worth investing the extra time to get a dress that fits perfectly and speaks to your personal style.
Ask for a Discount
As with any big purchase, you should never be afraid to ask for a discount. Wedding dresses are not only higher priced than everyday clothing, but they are also a once-in-a-lifetime item. It’s common for brides to feel overwhelmed when shopping for their dress, especially with the countless opinions of family and friends, so asking for a discount can ease the stress of this important decision.
If you’re shopping at a local bridal shop, try to visit during their off-season. This will give you the best chance of finding a gown that fits your budget.
Additionally, if you’re shopping online, browse the designer’s ready-to-wear collection first. This will expand your options and may help you find a gown that would have been out of your price range had it not been for the sample sale! The resale market is also a great resource for affordable designer wedding dresses. Many former brides sell their gowns to recoup some of their wedding expenses, so you could score a dress for a fraction of the original retail price!
