How to Save On Your Wedding Gown

Unless you are a pageant gal, a wedding gown might be the single most expensive dress you will ever buy. To add to the pressure, you are buying this gown for an important (maybe most important) day of your life. The pressure is mounting already and then you realize you also have a budget to stick to for this gown too. Here are some ways to stay within budget while finding your dream wedding gown.

The pictures with this blog are from Claire Pettibone 2015 Bridal Collection “Gothic Angel”.

~Monica Hui
Owner, Lead Planner and Designer
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Simplify

Opting for a classic gown without any embellishments can lower the price tag significantly, since materials like lace and beading are more expensive. If you are afraid your classic gown is too plain, opt to jazz up your dress through your accessories such as jewelry, wedding sash, or wedding veil.

Ask for Substitutes

If your dream is to have a highly embellished dress, there are still options to save on this gown. Ask the sales associate to check if there can be less beading on the gown, either just the bodice or skip the embellishments on the skirt or train. Another option is to ask for the dress to be made with a less expensive fabric. By making these two changes, you can still have the look you are seeking.

Avoid Custom Alterations

Making special changes to couture gowns, such as changing the shape of the neckline or altering a sleeve, can cost up to $300 per adjustment. To save some money, look for gowns you love just the way they are, rather than trying to transform one into something else.

Pick a Less Formal Silhouette

If a big ball gown is out of your reach, you can save by buying a more casual or simple shape, such as an aline gown. The more fabric required to make your gown, the higher the cost of the gown.

Shop at the Right Time

Winter and summer are the two times a year when bridal designers and some retailers, like Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City, will host mega-sales to make room for the next season’s merchandise. If you have your heart set on a pricey designer gown, you might be able to snag it at up to 80 percent less. Just keep in mind: Brides who wear a size 8 (the average sample size) often have the best luck, and you’ll have to battle the crowds. Try going on the second or third day of the sale after some of the craziness has died down.

Try Other Brides

You’d be surprised at how many brides change their mind after their dress arrives and choose to get a new one at the last minute—or they’re just looking to recoup some of the money they spent on the one they wore. Purchasing a once loved gown can save you tons of money!

Buy a Floor Sample

If you’re looking to save some serious cash (or if you need a dress fast!) consider buying the floor sample of the gown you tried on rather than ordering a new one. Just make sure you inspect the gown thoroughly before purchasing it. It is often a final sale.

Scout for Discounts

If you are the queen of social media, keep your eye out for bridal brands, wedding vendors, and even bloggers for sales or deals. Heck you might even be lucky enough to win your wedding gown! Good luck!!

Claire Pettibone 2015 Bridal Collection “Gothic Angel”