When it comes to your wedding day, you want to look your best. Many brides dream of wearing something big and white and beautiful, but the truth is, not everyone can afford to spend a fortune on a dress. If you’re looking to save money but still want to show off your unique style, there are a few things you can do.
Here are a few tips on how to show off your style on your wedding day while on a budget.
1. Start comparison shopping early
Starting comparison shopping early is essential if you have a limited wedding dress budget. This way, you’ll have time to find the perfect dress at the right price. Some brides make the mistake of waiting until the last minute to find a dress and spend more than they had initially planned.
It would be best if you started visiting bridal gown boutiques and department stores as soon as you get engaged. This will give you an idea of what’s available and how much dresses typically cost. Look for sales and clearance items to save even more money. But sometimes, you can find the best deals online, so don’t forget to check out bridal websites offering discounts on designer gowns.
2. Consider renting a dress
If you want to save money, you may want to consider renting a dress. This is an excellent option if you’re unsure if you wish to keep the dress after the wedding or if you plan on wearing it again. Several websites offer dress rentals for a fraction of buying one.
You can also find various designs that may not be available for purchase. And if you’re worried about the dress not fitting, most rental companies offer alterations so you can be sure the dress will look perfect on your wedding day.
3. Stick to a simple design
If you’re set on buying a dress, remember that the more detailed and embellished the gown is, the more expensive it will be. If you’re working with a limited budget, it’s best to stick to a simple design. A dress with less fabric and fewer decorations will be much cheaper than a dress with many frills.
But simpler dresses are much easier to accessorize. You can add personal touches with jewelry, a veil, or a belt. And if you’re crafty, you can sew on your embellishments to give the dress a more personal touch. This is a great way to add a unique twist without spending much money.
4. Choose a less traditional gown
If you’re looking for a truly unique dress, you may want to consider something other than a traditional white gown. Common alternatives include black, red, or even colored dresses. Of course, you’ll want to ensure the dress is still appropriate for your wedding. But a less traditional gown can help you stand out on your big day.
And if you’re worried about not looking “bridal” enough, there are many ways to accessorize a less traditional dress to make it more appropriate for a wedding. For example, you could wear a white veil or add sparkly jewelry. Depending on your budget, you could even have the dress dyed or embellished to make it more wedding-worthy.
5. Think outside the dress
Your style doesn’t have to be limited to a dress. There are other ways you can show off your personality on your wedding day. If you’re not sure what to wear, consider shopping for separates. This way, you can mix and match different tops and bottoms to create a one-of-a-kind look.
Another option is to wear a non-traditional wedding outfit, such as a jumpsuit or a pantsuit. This is a great way to show off your unique style without compromising on formality. And if you want to make a statement, you could consider wearing a costume. Just make sure you’re comfortable in whatever you choose to wear and that it fits the overall tone of your wedding.
6. Try shopping secondhand
If you’re set on buying a dress, you may want to consider shopping at a consignment store or browsing online classifieds. Several websites allow you to buy and sell used wedding dresses. And you can often find lightly-worn gowns for a fraction of the cost of a new one.
Of course, you’ll want to be careful when shopping secondhand. Ensure you inspect the dress thoroughly before you buy it and ask the seller questions about its condition. You may also want the dress cleaned or altered before the big day. But if you’re careful, you can find a great deal on a beautiful dress.
No matter your budget, there are plenty of ways to show off your style on your wedding day. With a bit of creativity, you can find a beautiful and affordable gown. And by accessorizing or shopping secondhand, you can stretch your budget and get the perfect dress for your big day.
