SmartBride: How to Get Designer Style for Less

This is my second installment in the three part series of SmartBride posts.  The first one was Destination Wedding Dresses under $500.

Wedding dresses can be expensive, but with these great tips from the SmartBride Boutique you'll be able to save yourself some money.

1. Lose the extras

Sometimes you try on the dress of your dreams, only to find out the deco belt around the waist, or the beautiful shoulder sash are extra!  A friend of mine, who is getting married next year, found her dream dress and was ready to purchase, and then discovered the price increased by another $1200 because of extra trimmings.  Be aware and avoid the extra cost.

2. Avoid custom alterations

It's no question that unless you're lucky enough to buy off the rack there will be alterations involved.  However, there are regular alterations and then there are custom.  If you want to add/alter a sleeve or change a neckline, you could be looking at significant cost additions.  Perhaps you can find another dress that has the elements you want already included.

3. Look for simple silhouettes

Unless you've got your heart set on a princess gown, remember that the more fabric used in a dress, the more it will cost.  Gowns with layers of tulle and organza will cost significantly more than a simple sheath in the same material.  Remain open to options and you just might surprise yourself!  I thought I wanted a flowing Grecian gown, but ended up in a curve hugging silhouette.  Nicole Miller dresses (pictured above) are great examples of simple silhouettes.

4. Shop sample sales, trunk shows, and evening gowns

Sample sales at bridal shops generally happen in summer and winter as retailers look to clear out old inventory at reduced prices.  Remember to factor in the cost of alterations and/or dry cleaning because these dresses have often been tried on numerous times.  Bridal boutiques also hold Trunk Shows for specific designers throughout the year.  During these events, savings abound.  Last but certainly not least, don't forget to look at evening gowns!  I ended up going to Holt Renfrew and found a white evening gown for less than the cost of any of the wedding dresses I was trying on.

5. Go online!

This one certainly isn't rocket science for all of you smart brides out there, but after you've found some favorites at the boutiques, it might be worthwhile to search online to find the dress at a reduced price.  As a note of caution, if you do find your dress online, it's best to deal locally if at all possible.  This allows you to meet the seller to inspect and try on your dress before purchase and protects you from fraud.

If you have any other great tips for saving money on your wedding dress, please add them in the comments section.

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Write by: AN - Friday, July 8, 2011