How to Choose Budget Bridesmaid Dresses

When planning wedding attire it is important to keep in mind that some of your bridesmaids may be working on a budget. Follow these easy steps to find a dress that everyone can afford.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Inexpensive is a loaded term. Consult with your bridesmaids about their budget. What is cheap to some is often over the moon expensive for others. Communicate clearly so everyone is on the same page and you have a good idea of what “inexpensive” means to everyone.
2. Once you have any idea of everyone’s budget determine the style of dress you want. Look through fashion magazines and bridal magazines if you are short on ideas. Avoid anything overly intricate. Your bridesmaids will thank you from staying away from the beads and lace and you’ll save everyone some money. Sundress and tea length style dresses tend not only to be more affordable, but your bridesmaids may be able to wear them again.
3. Stay away from the words bridesmaid, bridal and wedding when looking for the dresses. Weddings are a big industry; if you only look for “bridesmaids” dresses you’re attendants will end up paying a lot more for clothing.
4. Look for dresses in department stores and other stores where people can buy sophisticated, but every day clothing. A $150 sundress from a store like Jcrew will look much better and be higher quality than a dress from a bridal designer.
5. Look for sales. There are many websites that specialize in inexpensive dresses. Major department stores have sale frequently.
6. Make it easy for everyone and just choose a color or style. Each bridesmaid can choose their own dress and spend as much or as little as they would like. Then no one can blame you for how much they spend!