Wedding Dress Wednesday :: Save vs Splurge
People are still getting tying the knot despite the economic slowdown. But with pressure from the wedding industry to have the latest style or hottest fad, sometimes you have to prioritize what is important to you and your future Mr/Mrs.
For this week’s Wedding Dress Wednesday post, this collection features designer dresses with price points beyond any modest budget that are paired with similar, yet affordable options.
Re-embroidered lace with a high-low hem. Add a bold satin sash to the Alfred Angelo for the same effect.
Splurge: Monique Lhuillier; $12,540
Save: Alfred Angelo; $750
Spaghetti strap meets an empire bodice. Bias flounce creates mermaid silhouette for ease of walking. Both with a slight train.
Splurge: Reva Mivasagar; $3000+
Save: Jenny Yoo; $700
Not necessarily the same dress, but the same elements are still found in the comparisons. A tiered ruffled skirt adds a spring to your step. Lightweight chiffon adds volume without the weight of a traditional silk.
Splurge: Augusta Jones; $2500+
Save: Wtoo; $1250
Save: Watters: $1500
Lace drapes the body in a sheath silhouette. Cap sleeves add a modest element when paired with a jetting deep v-neckline.
Splurge: Monique Lhluhier; $5000+
Save: (Jacquelin Exclusive; $1,000-1500
Tips
Getting a dress that costs less, but feels and looks great can be simple. Avoid detailed handiwork (ie. re-embroidered lace, beading or appliques), additional details require more work. Thus, more work, means more money.
More fabric usually means more money. Slim your silhouette and find a dress that won’t eat you and your budget.
Set a budget and stick to it. When you are dress shopping, don’t be embarrassed to share your budget limits. If you are honest with yourself, you may fall in love with a dress beyond your means. No need to try on a dress that is not in your price range. Window shopping always leads to pining heart.
Designer names also carry a price tag. The Vera Wangs of the industry are able to inflate their dress prices because they are hitting a specific target population.
Check out sample sales (Brides Against Breast Cancer, Filene’s Basement Annual Sale), brick and mortar/online warehouses (House of Brides, Pearl’s Place), pre-owned wedding dresses (PreOwned Wedding Dresses, Bravo Bride)
I love this post! I always love it in magazines when they show the latest trends and then show you where you can get the same look for less!