1. Buy a sample gown
Buying a sample gown is a great way to save big money on your big day without compromising on style! As opposed to ordering your own custom gown, simply purchasing the boutiques dress from the floor can help you make your budget go further! Just make sure to check the dress for any possible stains and tears as it has of course been tried on before by other shoppers. As long as you keep this in mind though, you could make your wedding dress dreams come true without breaking the bank! Sample wedding gown availability differs from each bridal boutique to the next but check out these great ones we even found online!
This sample Jim Hjelm style 8903 from Forrest Paper and Bridal Company is a modified A-line bridal gown, strapless empire pleated bodice accented with crystal flower detail, pleated watteau back and chapel train. And because it’s a sample gown, it’s 52% off the retail price.
This Watters 9050b gown is a silk shantung strapless bias pin fold gown with full a-line skirt. It was originally $1750 but the sample version is just $750!
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2. Buy a white bridesmaid dress
While bridesmaid dresses are typically much less expensive than a gown classified for the bride, many of them are just as elegant and beautiful as the gowns you may pay the big bucks for. Particularly if you are open to wearing an off white shade or incorporating other colors in a sash or accents – this could be the money saving option that’s right for you.
Particularly if you are planning a black and white wedding, this sweet dress is elegantly simple, with clean lines and flattering fit! Not to mention… it’s under $100!
This elegant bridesmaid dress, at only $136, features a beautiful a-line neckline and soft ruffles. Totally do-able as a wedding dress!
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3. Buy a preowned wedding dress
If you’re determined to find that designer gown that works in your budget, buying a used wedding dress can be a great choice! For the most part, bridal gowns are only worn for that one special day and after a professional cleaning, can be as good as new! Not to mention, buying used is a great way to go green.
This mermaid style Jasmine F473 ivory dress has a sweetheart neckline and features cascading flowers that flow into a semi-cathedral train. It’s almost 30% off retail price and was never worn by the previous owner.
At 40% off, you can steal this Priscilla of Boston Maeve designer gown for far less than a designer price! Not to mention, we love the pockets.
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4. Buy a gorgeous non-bridal formal gown
While not specifically designed as bridal gowns, formal dresses in shades of white and ivory can be perfect on your wedding day as well. Far less expensive than bridal dresses, it’s a great way to slash your budget while not losing out on fun embellishments and fashion forward touches.
If you’re feeling bold, this sexy Grecian style is a stunner. From BCBG, it’s about $350 and packs a load of style!
We’re crazy about the detailing on this stunning drop-waist gown from Sue Wong. Listed as a prom dress this could so easily work as a wedding gown. Ruffles, beading, and embroidery oh my!
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It just takes a little imagination and research and you can find almost any gown within your budget!
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