Modern Day Bride: Wedding Dresses Under $100
A wedding is a special occasion. It is the celebration of a beautiful commitment the wedding couple makes to each other in front of friends and family. Every couple wants their wedding to be a unique experience that will be treasured forever. Sometimes, though, things don't always go as smoothly as we might hope they would. Sometimes, choices have to be made. Few have the budget to spend making every single one of their wedding dreams come true. You might have to prioritize and see what means the most to you.
A wedding dress does not always make it to the top of the priority list. However, that doesn't mean this special occasion dress is completely unimportant either! For the modern bride who is grappling with her wedding budget, here are some ideas for finding a wedding dress under $100.
Less Material
The less material there is, the less a dress probably costs. It makes sense, right? Many wedding dresses are full-length dresses with long trains fluttering down the aisle behind you. Some wedding dress skirts have layers upon layers of fabric to give the dress a certain look. If you think about it, there's not really any particular reason a wedding dress should look this way. Try on different dresses and see what it is about the dresses you like that catches your eye.
If you prefer the dress train, consider an asymmetrical dress that is shorter in the front with the train flowing down the back. If it is just the full-length skirt you like, how much does a ball gown with layers of skirt matter versus more of a maxi dress or a long sheath dress? Maybe you prefer shorter dresses for yourself in general and have just never really thought it was an option for your wedding. Whichever way your personal taste inclines you, think about how a wedding dress with less material in its design might work for you.
Less Complexity
Simplicity has always been a staple of elegance anyway! Many dresses standing in the window at the store are covered in expensive embellishments. They might have fancy embroidery or beading. Even different types of lace vary in cost based on how they were designed and manufactured. These dresses do certainly draw attention, but remember, you are the bride, and you will be the only one in white. You probably don't need to worry too much about whether or not the spotlight is on you.
Consider a more simple design with embellishments focused on the neckline and hemline. Think about what type of embellishments you like. Certain embellishments are cheaper than others. For example, handstitched embroidery will probably be more expensive than embroidery that is a little more preconstructed. See what your options for different designs are. You may even find you like a dress with no embellishments at all. When you have an idea of what you want, see what choices you can make to get what you want for a lower price.
Less Luxury
Along similar lines as the previous section, fabric choices can also impact your bottom line. Sometimes we have a specific idea of what we should have or want. A wedding dress made of silk sounds so sophisticated. Perhaps you have a dress of fancy cashmere or fur lining on your mind. On the other hand, some brides like to keep it simple and casual with a cotton dress. Double-check your mental image of your perfect wedding dress and make sure the fabric choice is a make-or-break priority for you.
Another aspect to consider is alterations. Your wedding dress should definitely fit you. If you are petite in size, you should look for petite dresses already made for your shape. It's always the goal to have minimal alterations, but how well and what are your tailoring options? If a dress you like is far from the shape of your body to the point that the alterations will be very costly, perhaps it is better to wait for something else. Does the tailoring have to be done by an official wedding tailor, or can it be handled by someone a little less specialized? You may have more cost-saving possibilities than you think.
Less Rush
If you are getting married in a week, it's probably going to be tough to figure out what exactly it is you are looking for, then find it for a reasonable price in time for the ceremony. If, on the other hand, you start looking early in the planning process and you have enough time to take your time, you will probably be able to find a dress that suits both your style and your budget.
Keep an eye out for seasonal bridal store sales and dresses with reduced prices. Check online for deals. Choosing a preowned dress from a thrift store or a seller on Etsy might be a good option. As you search and plan, remember to leave enough space in the wedding dress part of your budget to cover potential shipping and alteration costs if you truly intend to only spend $100 in this area.
Now that you know some potential saving opportunities, figure out what you want and seek it out! Good luck!