Things You'll Need:
- Time
- Yellow Pages
- Newspaper
- Computer
- Advertisements
- Internet
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Step 1
Shop early and often. Sometimes by shopping off-season you can get quite a discount on wedding dresses, regardless of designer because they are trying to make room for the new fashions of the upcoming bridal season.
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Step 2
Pay someone you know to design and create a dress for you. If you purchase all the materials needed and pay them for their time, effort and labor, you can have a unique dress that fits you perfectly. It's special to know that a dress was designed just for you. If you do this, make sure the dressmaker is reliable and can have the dress done a few months before the wedding. The designer needs to also be willing to make last minute alterations if needed.
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Step 3
Buy a discounted or last season dress that is close to what you hope for, even if it is a little big. Simply have alterations done to change it. You can also add sequins, train, weights, and more to put the finishing touches on the dress that will be uniquely yours.
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Step 4
Visit vintage bridal shops and thrift stores. These often have several different wedding dresses in stock and ready to go at deeply discounted prices. Just make sure there are little or no defects.
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Step 5
Go to annual bridal sales at your local stores. These can be very busy and hectic, drawing huge crowds. Arrive early, and bring help with you. Stay informed of these sales using advertising fliers from newspapers, the internet and TV commercials. These sales are often held at a specific time of year.
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Step 6
Consider shopping at outlet stores of major retailers. These are often separate from the malls, and these are usually located within outlet malls or basements of mall stores. You may walk away with a generous discount on a wedding dress.
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Step 7
Shop rummage sales. Try the dress on before you buy it, if possible. Often dresses advertised here have never been worn, or the dresses show no evidence of wear. Be sure to try the dress on for fit. If it does not fit properly, make sure alterations can be done.
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Step 8
Look online and let your fingers do the walking for a discount wedding dress. Always make sure that you can return it with no questions asked if you choose an online purchase. This will be more difficult, but it could result in a substantial discount on even a designer wedding dress.
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Step 9
Purchase your other bridal needs such as dresses and tuxedos at the same store. Some bridal stores will offer discounts if you purchase several items from them at once.
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Step 10
Charge your dress on a cash back credit card. You will earn a rebate on your wedding dress purchase, thus earning a hidden discount.

















Comments
AutumnLeavz said
on 7/23/2008 Excellent information! Very helpful advice!
acole said
on 7/22/2008 Good info!
TheHabe said
on 7/21/2008 I grew up in Boston and loved to go to Filene's Basement and watch women fight over the discount bridal gowns. Thanks for a great read!
amylaine said
on 7/20/2008 great ideas
LilacGirl said
on 7/18/2008 These are all such great ideas for the frugal bride.