Many brides feel that one of the most critical parts of their big day is the dress they wear. In fact, many have dreamed of their wedding dress since they were little girls, and you may imagine yourself feeling a specific way when you find the one for you.
However, there is a more practical side to these dreams, and that is how much the dress costs. While your wedding dress will likely be the most expensive garment you own, there are plenty of ways to save on it.
Create a Budget Ahead of Time
Create a budget so you know how much you are looking to spend. This allows you to eliminate dresses outside your price range before you even spend time trying them on. Divide the total amount you expect to spend by the number of months before you need to purchase the dress to figure out how much you need to set aside each month. There are some ways of saving more money so you can have a bigger budget. One option is to refinance your student loan debt. You can compare different providers to find the best one for you.
Look for Styles That Are Easy to Modify
While a button-up back may be classic, a corset back may be more practical because you would not need as many modifications to obtain a perfect fit. Corset backs have been coming back into style, and they can fit and flatter any body type. When you put the dress on, you can adjust the tightness of the lacing in each hole to obtain a custom fit of the bodice. Consider a dress that laces up in the back and flows over the hips, so you don’t need to worry about the fit anywhere. Corset backs are also helpful if your weight tends to fluctuate. The dress will still fit you, even if your body changes. Brides who may be expecting can also choose corset backs.
Don’t Limit Your Search to Bridal Shops
Bridal shops charge a premium for their gowns, so consider looking in other places, especially if you want to stay on top of your finances or you don’t want something as traditional. You might be able to find an ideal gown at a department or boutique shop. A simple white gown will give you a laid-back look, and it will not cost nearly as much as a traditional dress. You may be able to find an inexpensive white dress and have it professionally altered to give you a perfect fit.
Don’t Be Afraid to Get Used
This option won’t be for every bride, but if you don’t mind a dress that has already been worn (and cleaned), you could save several hundred dollars. Wedding dresses are usually only worn for one day, so the dress would likely not have experienced heavy wear. There are plenty of online sites where you can find used dresses. You can also try vintage or thrift shops in the area. It might take longer to find something you love, but what you do end up with will be uniquely yours.
