The cost of a wedding dress can range based on so many things. The designer, fabrics, embellishments and level of customization. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand…
Like everything, you are likely to get what you pay for.
1. Off the peg wedding dress (tend to be low end)
These can often be mass produced and made with low quality fabrics. The dresses are often
found online, in department stores or at lower end retailers. These dresses are likely to lack
structure and support.
Prices can vary and are often anything from £100-£700
2. Ex-sample wedding dress (also off the peg)
These are usually bought from a sale within a boutique clearing old stock or from an outlet
shop. The dresses will have been tried on by others and maybe used in promotional ways.
There is likely to be only one size of each dress available (meaning less choice if you fall in love
with a dress). There may be make-up or a small amount of damage to these dresses. The
dresses should be priced accordingly.
If you are on a budget and want a better-quality dress than option 1, this can be a great way to
save some money.
Prices can vary based on the original price but are often reduced by around 30-70%.
(you may need to factor in slightly higher alteration costs if you buy a dress in a different dress
size).
3. Designer wedding dress
These dresses will be ‘made to order’ for you.
You will try on the sample dresses in the bridal shop and when you fall in love with a dress, they
will measure you and order a brand-new dress in your size.
This dress will still require alterations to fit you perfectly.
Designer wedding dresses can vary from £1000-£10,000 (and above) and it’s good to do your
research on a bridal shop before booking to ensure its within your wedding dress budget.
In the UK, most wedding dresses that retail over £2500 are customisable – meaning you can
make changes (often at an added cost).
4. Custom made wedding dress.
A custom-made wedding dress is designed and made to your specific measurements and
preferences.
Cost for this dependant on fabrics, embellishments etc is likely to range from £3000-£10,000
(and above).
Additional costs to consider include alterations (which can range from £150-£450 and depending on
the level of ‘tweaks’, the area you live in and much more).
You may also like a veil, wedding shoes and bridal jewellery.
