Weddings are a magical time filled with love, laughter, and happily ever afters. And one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning is finding the perfect attire to say “I do” in. While dreams of designer gowns and tuxedos dance through our heads, the reality is that wedding attire can come with a hefty price tag. But fear not, savvy brides and grooms-to-be, for there are plenty of ways to dress to impress without breaking the bank!
In this article you will find:
- Setting Your Budget
- Creating a Mood Board
- Exploring Non-Traditional Options
- Shopping for Wedding Dresses
- Sample Sales and Trunk Shows
- Bridal Store Alternatives
- Choosing Affordable Suits and Tuxedos
- Rentals and Sales
- Online Options
- Accessorizing on a Budget
- Borrowing and DIY
- Sales and Clearance
Setting Your Budget
The first step in finding affordable wedding attire is to set a realistic budget. Take a look at your overall wedding budget and decide how much you are willing to allocate towards your outfit. Remember, the most important thing is to feel confident and beautiful on your big day, not to spend a fortune on a dress or suit.
Creating a Mood Board
Before you start shopping, create a mood board that reflects the style and vibe of your wedding. Are you having a rustic outdoor affair or a glamorous ballroom soiree? Having a clear vision of your wedding theme will help narrow down your choices when it comes to attire.
Exploring Non-Traditional Options
Don’t limit yourself to traditional wedding salons. Consider shopping at department stores, online retailers, sample sales, or even second-hand shops. You never know where you might find the dress or suit of your dreams at a fraction of the cost.
Shopping for Wedding Dresses
For brides, the wedding dress is often the focal point of the entire day. Here are some tips for finding a stunning dress without the designer price tag.
Sample Sales and Trunk Shows
Many bridal salons offer sample sales where you can snag a designer gown at a discounted price. Trunk shows are another great option for finding a unique dress at a lower cost.
Bridal Store Alternatives
Consider shopping at retailers who offer bridal lines at more affordable prices, such as ASOS, BHLDN, or David’s Bridal. You can also explore pre-owned wedding dress websites like Stillwhite or Once Wed for gently-used gowns at a fraction of the cost.
Choosing Affordable Suits and Tuxedos
Grooms don’t have to break the bank to look dapper on their wedding day. Here are some tips for finding affordable suits and tuxedos.
Rentals and Sales
Renting a suit or tuxedo is a cost-effective option that still allows you to look sharp. Many rental companies offer a wide selection of styles and colors to choose from. If buying is more your style, look for sales at department stores or consider purchasing a suit that can be worn again for future events.
Online Options
Online retailers like The Black Tux and Generation Tux offer stylish and affordable options for renting suits and tuxedos. You can also find great deals on suits at retailers like Macy’s, J.Crew, or Men’s Wearhouse.
Accessorizing on a Budget
Accessories are the finishing touch that can elevate your wedding attire to the next level. Here are some tips for finding affordable accessories.
Borrowing and DIY
Consider borrowing jewelry or accessories from friends or family members to add a sentimental touch to your outfit. You can also try your hand at DIY projects to customize accessories like veils, sashes, or boutonnieres.
Sales and Clearance
Keep an eye out for sales and clearance events at accessory stores or online retailers. You can often find stunning pieces at a fraction of the original price.
Remember, your wedding day is a celebration of love and commitment, and your attire should reflect your personal style and taste. By being creative, resourceful, and open-minded, you can find affordable wedding attire that makes you feel like a million bucks without spending a fortune.
