Impact of Bridesmaid Dress Choices on the Wedding Budget + Saving Tips

While weddings are monumental events, it often comes with significant financial considerations. Among the myriad of expenses, bridesmaid dresses represent a considerable portion that adds to the overall wedding budget. How expensive a bridesmaid dress will cost is often influenced by factors such as the bride's vision, the latest trends, and the bridesmaids' preferences. This article delves into the various aspects of bridesmaid dress choices and their implications on the wedding budget, providing insights and practical tips to manage costs effectively.

Influencing Factors on the Cost of Bridesmaid Dresses

1. Dress Style and Design

The style and design of bridesmaid dresses play a crucial role in determining their cost. Simple, elegant designs typically cost less as compared to intricate, custom-made gowns. Dresses featuring elaborate beadwork, lace, or other detailed embellishments are more labor-intensive and therefore more expensive. Choosing a classic, timeless style such as a-line bridesmaid dresses can help manage costs while still ensuring the bridesmaids look elegant. 

2. Fabric Quality

The type of fabric used for bridesmaid dresses significantly affects the price. High-end fabrics like silk, chiffon, and satin are more expensive than polyester or cotton blends. While luxurious fabrics may add a touch of elegance to the wedding, they can also inflate the budget. Opting for mid-range fabrics that still look and feel good can strike a balance between quality and cost.

3. Brand and Designer

Designer and brand-name dresses often come with a hefty price tag. Renowned designers charge a premium for their creations, reflecting their reputation and the exclusivity of their designs. On the other hand, lesser-known brands or local designers can offer beautiful dresses at a fraction of the cost. Exploring different options and not limiting the search to high-end designers can result in significant savings.

4. Customization and Alterations

Customization and alterations can add substantial costs to bridesmaid dresses. Custom-made dresses, tailored to each bridesmaid's exact measurements, often require multiple fittings and adjustments, increasing the overall expense. Off-the-rack dresses that require minimal alterations are a more budget-friendly option. However, if customization is necessary, it's important to account for these additional costs in the budget.

5 Tips on Managing Bridesmaid Dress Costs

1. Establish a Clear Budget

Before embarking on the search for bridesmaid dresses, it's essential to establish a clear budget. This involves setting a maximum amount that can be spent on each dress, including any alterations or accessories. Communicating this budget to the bridesmaids and sticking to it can prevent overspending and ensure everyone is on the same page.

2. Consider Rental Options

Renting bridesmaid dresses is an increasingly popular option for budget-conscious brides. Rental services offer a wide range of styles and sizes at a fraction of the cost of purchasing new dresses. This approach not only saves money but also eliminates the need for bridesmaids to store dresses they may never wear again. However, it's important to factor in the rental period and any potential late fees when considering this option.

3. Shop During Sales and Discounts

Timing the purchase of bridesmaid dresses during sales or discount periods can result in significant savings. Many bridal shops and online retailers such as JJ’s House offer promotional discounts, seasonal and clearance sales. Signing up to their newsletter and keeping an eye out for these opportunities can help secure high-quality dresses at reduced prices. Being flexible on the timing of your bridesmaid dress shopping will be helpful in this scenario.

4. Explore Online Retailers

Online retailers often provide a vast selection of bridesmaid dresses at competitive prices. Websites like Celimoya, ASOS, BHLDN, and Nordstrom offer a variety of styles and price ranges to suit different budgets. To ensure a pleasant shopping experience, be sure to read customer reviews and check their return policies. It is also important to place your order in advance to allow ample time for any necessary alterations if required.

5. Opt for Mix-and-Match Styles

Alternatively, come out with a specific color palette or style guideline and letting your bridesmaid choose their own dresses can be a cost-effective approach. This mix-and-match strategy enables each bridesmaid to select a dress that fits her budget and body type, potentially reducing the need for costly alterations. It also adds a unique and personalized touch to the bridal party's overall look.

Bonus Tip: Hidden Costs to Consider

Beyond the cost of the bridesmaid dress, there are several hidden costs that you should know, which can add on to the wedding cost.

1. Accessories

Accessories such as shoes, jewelry, and hairpieces can add up quickly. Coordinating these items with the bridesmaid dresses and considering their cost in the overall budget is essential. Providing guidelines or suggestions for budget-friendly accessories can help manage these additional expenses. Alternatively, you can ask the bridesmaid to pair the dress with their own accessories.

2. Shipping and Handling

For online purchases or rentals, shipping and handling fees can contribute to the overall cost. Expedited shipping, in particular, can be costly if dresses are ordered last minute. Planning ahead and placing an order in advance can minimize these extra charges.

3. Alteration Fees

Even off-the-rack dresses may require some alterations for the perfect fit. Alteration fees vary depending on the complexity of the adjustments needed. It's important to set aside some budget for these potential costs. Try to choose dresses that require minimal alterations to keep expenses in check.

Plan and Communicate Early to Save More

Bridesmaid dress choices undeniably adds on to the cost of the wedding, but with proper planning and strategic decision-making, it's possible to manage these costs effectively. By considering factors listed above including the potential hidden costs, you can find beautiful dresses that fit within your budget.

Always explore a variety of sources and consider all available options can help to find the perfect bridesmaid dress that aligns with both the intended style and budget. Additionally, keeping an open communication with bridesmaids will contribute to a smooth and enjoyable dress selection process, and eventually lead to the overall success and joy of the wedding celebration.