Wedding dresses are one of the most significant investments you’ll make for your big day, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to find a gown that makes you feel like a queen. Affordable wedding dresses that look luxurious are possible to find, and there are many great retailers and online shops where you can score a stunning dress without sacrificing style or quality. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best places to shop for affordable wedding dresses that look expensive.
1. David’s Bridal: A Widely Trusted Name for Affordable Wedding Gowns
David’s Bridal has long been a go-to destination for brides looking for both trendy and classic wedding dresses. They offer a vast collection of styles, from traditional ball gowns to sleek and modern sheath dresses. One of the best features of David’s Bridal is its wide range of price points, with many beautiful gowns under $1,000.
- Why It Works: David’s Bridal frequently holds sales, and they offer discounts on dresses, making it easy to find a high-quality gown at a budget-friendly price.
- Best For: Brides looking for variety, customization options, and in-person fittings.
Popular Dresses:
- A-line gowns
- Sheath and mermaid dresses
- Boho-inspired styles
2. Lulus: Trendy and Affordable Bridal Styles
Lulus is a favorite for brides who want a stylish wedding dress without the hefty price tag. The brand offers modern and timeless styles, with many dresses priced well under $500. Lulus’ collection includes romantic lace dresses, minimalist silk gowns, and whimsical boho-inspired designs.
- Why It Works: Lulus is known for offering high-quality materials and flattering cuts at a fraction of what you would pay at traditional bridal boutiques. They also offer a range of sizes, making it accessible for all brides.
- Best For: Brides who want a chic, fashion-forward dress with a modern flair.
Popular Dresses:
- Lace wedding dresses
- A-line and sheath styles
- Boho and vintage-inspired gowns
3. ASOS: Affordable and Stylish Wedding Dresses for Every Budget
ASOS has a fantastic selection of affordable wedding dresses, often at the lower end of the price spectrum. They offer everything from modern minimalist gowns to romantic, bohemian-inspired dresses. ASOS’s prices range from as low as $100 to around $500 for a dress that still looks luxe.
- Why It Works: ASOS is renowned for its high-quality materials and fashion-forward designs, all at budget-friendly prices. They also offer easy online shopping and a wide variety of styles and sizes.
- Best For: Brides looking for affordable, on-trend options and those willing to experiment with different styles.
Popular Dresses:
- Simple satin gowns
- Modern lace designs
- Vintage-inspired dresses
4. Nordstrom: Affordable Luxury with Designer Options
Nordstrom may be known for high-end luxury, but they also carry a range of affordable wedding dresses from both well-known designers and emerging brands. You can find elegant, high-quality gowns at lower price points that still have the luxurious feel of designer dresses.
- Why It Works: Nordstrom offers premium customer service and alterations, and they frequently offer sales and discounts, which can make even their designer gowns more affordable.
- Best For: Brides looking for a mix of designer and budget-friendly wedding gowns.
Popular Dresses:
- Bridal dresses by David’s Bridal and other designers
- Minimalist, clean lines wedding gowns
- Dresses with intricate lace or beadwork
5. BHLDN: Affordable Yet Elegant Wedding Dresses
BHLDN, a part of the Anthropologie family, specializes in wedding gowns that are elegant, romantic, and reasonably priced. While many of their dresses range in the $800 to $2,000 range, they often have sales and discounts that allow you to snag high-end styles for less. BHLDN offers an impressive variety of styles, including boho, vintage-inspired, and classic looks.
- Why It Works: BHLDN combines timeless design with a variety of trendy details, making their gowns versatile and stunning. Their dresses are made from luxurious fabrics like silk and satin without the luxury price tag.
- Best For: Brides who want boho chic, romantic, and vintage wedding dress options.
Popular Dresses:
- Bohemian and lace gowns
- A-line and mermaid silhouettes
- Vintage-inspired lace dresses
6. Etsy: Unique and Customizable Wedding Dresses
Etsy is a great place to find unique and affordable wedding dresses. Many talented independent designers offer custom-made dresses, meaning you can get a one-of-a-kind gown that fits perfectly. Etsy offers a wide range of styles, from vintage to boho to contemporary, and prices are often lower than you’d expect for such high-quality, handcrafted items.
- Why It Works: Etsy offers the possibility of customizing your wedding dress, and many sellers will create a dress according to your specifications. You can find beautiful handmade wedding dresses for much less than what you’d pay for an off-the-rack gown.
- Best For: Brides looking for a unique, custom, or eco-friendly dress that reflects their personal style.
Popular Dresses:
- Custom-made lace or chiffon gowns
- Vintage-inspired dresses
- Boho and minimalist designs
7. Zara: Affordable and Chic Bridal Dresses
For brides looking for something stylish yet budget-friendly, Zara offers a great selection of wedding-ready dresses. Their collection is minimalistic, chic, and versatile, and you can easily pair one of their dresses with accessories like veils, shoes, and jewelry for a polished wedding look.
- Why It Works: Zara’s wedding dresses are ideal for couples who want a relaxed, modern, and minimalist wedding style. With dresses starting at just $100, Zara’s dresses offer unbeatable value.
- Best For: Modern brides who prefer simplicity, sleek lines, and a minimalist aesthetic.
Popular Dresses:
- Simple slip dresses
- Lace and satin minimalist gowns
- Contemporary straight-cut wedding dresses
8. Amazon: Affordable Wedding Dresses for Every Style
Amazon offers an extensive range of wedding dresses, including both affordable options and high-end designer replicas. You can find everything from traditional ball gowns to simple, modern styles. Many of the affordable options have glowing reviews and offer a surprisingly high level of quality for their price.
- Why It Works: With affordable pricing and a variety of styles, Amazon makes it easy to find a wedding dress that fits your budget and your style. Shipping is often fast, and returns are relatively simple.
- Best For: Brides on a tight budget who still want a wide selection of options to choose from.
Popular Dresses:
- A-line dresses
- Mermaid and fit-and-flare styles
- Lace and satin designs
9. Revolve: Stylish and Modern Wedding Gowns
Revolve is known for its chic, trendy pieces, and their bridal collection is no exception. While many of their dresses are priced on the higher end, they offer a selection of affordable wedding gowns that exude modern elegance and style. Their dresses often feature sleek lines, elegant lace detailing, and subtle embellishments that make them perfect for a fashion-forward bride.
- Why It Works: Revolve’s selection of wedding dresses is perfect for the modern bride who wants something stylish and fresh without spending a fortune.
- Best For: Brides looking for trendy, chic, and contemporary wedding gowns.
Popular Dresses:
- Satin slip dresses
- Minimalist gowns
- Dresses with intricate lace detailing
Conclusion
Finding the perfect wedding dress that looks expensive but is affordable is entirely possible, and there are numerous places where you can shop for a gown that suits your budget and style. Whether you prefer the elegance of BHLDN, the trendy options at Lulus, or the classic designs at David’s Bridal, each retailer offers something special for brides seeking a stunning dress without the hefty price tag. With so many options, you’re sure to find a wedding dress that not only makes you feel amazing but also fits your budget perfectly. Happy dress shopping!
