When it comes to your wedding day, there is probably no item of clothing more closely scrutinized than the one you choose to wear. Whether it’s impatient friends sniffing for clues as to what dress you may have chosen or distant acquaintances relying on the obvious go-to subject of your ensemble to serve as an easy conversation starter, most people can’t wait to see how you’re going to look on your big day.
Having a beautiful dress is certainly an essential part of any bride’s look, but it can also be a bit of a burden on your wallet if you’re not careful. So, to help ease the stress (and the expense), we spoke to an expert who explains everything that goes into your wedding dress price tag and offers some helpful tips on saving money when shopping for your perfect gown.
The fabric of your dress will significantly impact the overall cost. While a bridal dress made of silk or hand-embroidered lace will be more expensive, synthetic or blend fabrics like crepe, rayon, and chiffon are generally more affordable options.
Embellishments can add a touch of glamour and personality to nearly any dress style. Beading, lace appliques and embroidery are just some of the details that can instantly elevate your design without breaking the bank. However, intricate embellishments are more labor intensive and can increase the cost of your dress by hundreds of dollars or more. So be sure to weigh how much you want or need these embellishments against the overall look and price point of your desired dress before making any final decisions.
The neckline is the most prominent display of a bride’s figure and is key in defining their overall silhouette. It frames their face, defines their hairstyle and influences what jewelry they will wear on their special day. Choosing the right neckline can be a daunting task for some brides and it’s often best to take photos of yourself wearing various dress styles with your phone before you buy, so that you have an idea of what works for you.
Sleeves can add a touch of whimsy to your look or create an elegant, sophisticated effect depending on the type and length of the sleeves you select. From sleeveless to three-quarter length, there are many options to explore when selecting the perfect gown.
Unless you’re planning on wearing your gown for another occasion, it’s probably best to steer clear of anything too short, as it can be difficult and time consuming to alter. The hemline of your gown should be proportionate to your height and should not fall too far down from the waist, as it can snag on things like the floor or chairs you’ll be standing up against.
Most brides will require some alterations to their dress to ensure a picture-perfect fit, and this can add up quickly. Common alterations include taking the side seams in or out, hemming the skirt, adding ties or buttons for a bustle, mending fabric, shortening straps and inserting bra cups.