Your wedding dress is one of the most special outfits you’ll ever wear, but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank! If you’re looking for creative ways to save money while still finding a dress you love, there are plenty of alternatives beyond traditional bridal boutiques. From thrifting to borrowing, here are some smart ways to say “yes” to the dress without the hefty price tag.
1. Thrift & Secondhand Bridal Shops
One of the best ways to score a designer dress at a fraction of the cost is by shopping pre-loved gowns. Many brides sell or donate their dresses after the big day, leaving plenty of stunning options available at secondhand bridal shops and online resale platforms.
📍 Where to Look:
- Local thrift stores & consignment shops – Some thrift stores have dedicated bridal sections, while others may surprise you with hidden gems.
- Secondhand bridal boutiques – Many cities have specialty bridal resale shops where you can try on discounted pre-owned dresses.
- Online marketplaces – Websites like Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, and Poshmark offer gently used gowns, often at 50-80% off retail prices.
💡 Tip: Check the return policy before buying online, and ask for detailed photos of any wear or alterations!
2. Borrow from a Loved One
Wearing a dress from a family member or close friend is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly meaningful. Whether it’s your mother’s vintage gown, your sister’s modern dress, or even a friend’s simple slip dress, borrowing a wedding dress is a sentimental and sustainable choice.
👗 Things to Consider:
- Alterations may be needed – If the dress doesn’t fit perfectly, you may need to adjust it, but alterations are usually far cheaper than buying a brand-new gown.
- Styling updates – You can modernize a vintage dress by adjusting the neckline, removing sleeves, or adding embellishments.
💡 Tip: If you love the idea of incorporating a family dress but still want something different, consider using lace or fabric from the original gown to create a custom veil or sentimental accessory.
3. Rent Instead of Buy
If you’re open to not owning your wedding dress, renting could be a great way to wear a designer gown for a fraction of the price. Many bridal rental services offer high-end dresses at affordable rates, perfect for brides who don’t plan to keep their gown forever.
📍 Where to Rent a Wedding Dress:
- Local bridal shops – Some boutiques offer rental options alongside traditional purchases.
- Online rental sites – Websites like Rent the Runway and Borrowing Magnolia provide access to beautiful wedding dresses at a fraction of retail costs.
💡 Tip: Always check rental policies regarding cleaning, damage fees, and return timelines to avoid unexpected costs.
4. Shop Non-Traditional Retailers
Who says your wedding dress has to come from a bridal salon? Many mainstream retailers and department stores sell white dresses that could work beautifully for a wedding—often at a much lower price point.
📍 Affordable Dress Retailers to Check Out:
- ASOS, Reformation, & BHLDN – Offer chic, modern wedding dress options under $1,000.
- Department stores – Nordstrom, Macy’s, and even H&M occasionally carry white dresses perfect for a casual or courthouse wedding.
- Etsy – If you want something unique and handmade, Etsy has incredible custom wedding dress options at lower prices.
💡 Tip: Check bridal sample sales at traditional boutiques—these often include brand-new dresses at deep discounts!
5. Consider a Bridesmaid or Evening Gown
A white or ivory bridesmaid dress or evening gown can look just as elegant as a traditional wedding dress but costs hundreds (or even thousands) less. Many brands, like Jenny Yoo and Amsale, design sleek and sophisticated bridesmaid gowns that work beautifully for a modern bridal look.
💡 Tip: If you want a fuller bridal look, consider adding a detachable overskirt or accessories to elevate the dress.
Final Thoughts
There are so many ways to save on your wedding dress while still feeling gorgeous on your big day. Whether you thrift, borrow, rent, or shop outside of traditional bridal salons, you can find a stunning gown that fits both your budget and your vision. At the end of the day, it’s not about the price—it’s about how you feel wearing it!
