How can I best save money on a dress?

Are there any ways or hints to get a dress within my budget?

Question Asked: 6/02/2025

Wedding Date: 28/02/2025

Most Helpful Response

Kerry Armatas

(23) · Melbourne and Surroundings

Posted: 11/02/2025

The best way to save money on a wedding dress is to have it custom-made.This allows you to choose the style, fabric,lace, and details you love while staying within your budget. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have a unique, one-of-a-kind gown that fits  you perfectly and makes you look absolutely  stunning on your wedding day."

Answered by: 7 Experts

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Seni Couture

(0) · Melbourne and surrounding areas

Posted: 11/02/2025

In addition to the advice above, another suggestion is to rent a wedding dress or go to a local dressmaker if you already have a design in mind. If you are around Melbourne, we'd love to connect with you to see how we can help you. We offer rental gowns and custom wedding gowns services. All the best with the wedding dress shopping and wedding planning. 

Eternal Weddings & Alterations

(95) · Melbourne & Surrounding Suburbs

Posted: 9/02/2025

To save money on your wedding dress, consider exploring off-the-rack options or attending our Summer Love Sale for sample sales, where you can find beautiful gowns at a fraction of the cost and can also help you stay within your budget while still feeling fabulous on your big day. We help you stay within your budget - give us a call or book a bridal appointment with us via our website, so we can direct and show you what we have to offer!

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Good luck

Perth Best Alteration

(3) · Perth

Posted: 8/02/2025

Your advice on saving money for a wedding dress is practical and thoughtful! Here’s a polished version of your suggestions, along with a few additional tips to help cut costs without sacrificing style:

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**1. Hunt for deals beyond sales racks:**  

   - Explore sample sales, consignment shops, or online platforms (e.g., Stillwhite, PreOwnedWeddingDresses) for discounted new or gently used dresses.  

   - Consider renting a dress for a fraction of the cost.  

**2. Prioritize the best fit:**  

   - Look for styles labeled "off-the-rack" or "ready-to-wear," which often require fewer alterations.  

   - Opt for simpler designs (e.g., slip, A-line) that are easier to fit and alter yourself if needed.  

**3. Minimize alterations:**  

   - If minor adjustments are necessary, ask about in-store discounts or seek a local tailor with affordable rates.  

   - Avoid intricate details (e.g., lace, beading) that complicate alterations.  

**4. Think outside the "wedding dress" box:**  

   - Shop for white/ivory bridesmaid dresses, prom gowns, or evening wear—they’re often cheaper and just as elegant.  

**5. Resell or repurpose after the wedding:**  

   - Sell your dress post-event to recoup costs, or repurpose it into a keepsake (e.g., shortened for anniversary wear).  

**6. Simplify accessories:**  

   - Borrow jewelry, veils, or shoes from friends/family, or shop secondhand.  

**7. Timing matters:**  

   - Buy during holiday sales (Black Friday, Boxing Day) or off-season (winter for summer weddings).  

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By focusing on fit, simplicity, and creative shopping, you can save significantly while still feeling stunning on your big day. Every penny saved on the dress can go toward other wedding priorities! ???

Amante Bridal

(8) · Melbourne and surrounding areas, Gippsland, Lakes Entrance,

Posted: 7/02/2025

Hi

The best way to save on a wedding gown it to start with researching the Bridal stores you wish to visit and see what their price ranges are. Once you find a suitable store, be honest and let them know your budget so that you are not disappointed by trying on your dream gown only to find it is unaffordable.

Also most Bridal stores will have Sample gowns to clear, They are still in great condition and you can purchase them at a huge discount. not all stores advertise the Sample prices so it is best to call and chat to someone rather.We also offer creative solutions to budget constraints by considering seperates to create a gown ,etc.Hope this information helped you and good luck with your wedding plans.

Timeless Elegance

(32) · Launceston and Tasmania Statewide

Posted: 7/02/2025

Hi.  Shopping around is a good thing to do, and finding a boutique you are comfortable working with is always a plus.  Most stores will have ex sample gowns that they are willing to discount.  Ex Sample gowns are usually in great condition, and are usually heavily discounted. 

Always tell the stylist your preferred budget, and they will help you select gowns in this range, trying on more expensive dresses and falling in love with them only leads to stress (and sometimes tears), so it is always a good idea to be guided by your price point.   There are beautiful gowns in all price ranges so whether you spend $500 or $5000 you will; be a beautiful bride.  Best of luck with your search.

Barossa Bridal

(1) · South Australia

Posted: 7/02/2025

Hi!

If you plan to buy a dress from a store, do your research first. They will have their list of stocked designers on their website and possibly a price range. Each designer is different when it comes to price range so seek out stores with low cost designers and be firm on your budget. Do not try on more expensive dresses if you are not willing to spend it, it will only make you sad to find the perfect dress that you can't afford. Alternatively, bigger stores will have an ex-sample stock range. These are dresses that have been worn by brides and then repleaced by newer styles. They barely have any damaged since they don't leave the bridal store and they haven't been altered. These dress usually come in under $1000. Good luck!

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