Most brides know that one of the biggest expenses when it comes to being part of a wedding is the dress. But why are bridesmaid dresses so expensive? It’s a question many bridal parties ask themselves before they even start shopping. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the factors that contribute to the cost of bridesmaid gowns and provide some tips for saving money on this important part of any wedding.
The average cost of a bridesmaid gown
Source: vogue.com
The cost of the dress can vary significantly depending on the style and material you choose. Generally, a simple, off-the-rack dress will cost between $100 and $200. If you’re looking for something more ornate or custom-made, you could easily spend up to $500 or more. According to a survey conducted by The Knot, the average cost of a bridesmaid-dress is $150.
When shopping for a bridesmaid gown, it’s important to keep in mind the amount of labor and fabric that goes into creating a dress. Depending on the complexity of the design, the cost of labor can add $50 to $100 to the final price. Similarly, more expensive fabrics such as silk or chiffon may be more expensive than polyester or cotton blends. Taking these factors into consideration will help you budget appropriately for your gown.
The history of bridesmaid-gowns
Source: elle.com
Bridesmaids have been part of the wedding tradition for centuries, with their gowns often reflecting the style of the time. In the Victorian era, maids wore long and elaborate dresses, often made of white fabric with lace detailing. The style of the dress has changed over time, however, the cost of gowns has remained quite expensive.
The traditional style of bridesmaid dress in the early twentieth century was a full-length gown with intricate details such as pleats, bows and ruffles. This style was often used to reflect the bridesmaids’ respect and loyalty to the bride. As time went on, these full-length gowns were replaced by shorter styles that allowed for more movement and flexibility.
In the 1950s, dresses for the squad took on a much more casual look, with bright colors and vibrant patterns becoming popular. However, this trend did not last long, as brides wanted their bridesmaids to look more like them. This meant that bridesmaid dresses soon became more formal, with hemlines rising to the knee in the 1960s and 1970s.
In recent years, bridesmaid dresses have become much more modern, allowing for more individual expression. While many brides still opt for traditional styles, there is now a wide range of options available to suit any budget. Despite the variety of styles, one thing remains unchanged: the cost of bridesmaid dresses is still quite expensive.
The cost of materials
Source: thebudgetsavvybride.com
When it comes to the cost of the gowns for your squad, materials play a big role. Generally speaking, the more expensive fabrics like silk, chiffon and organza will be more expensive than synthetic fabrics like polyester and taffeta. In addition, many gowns are adorned with details like sequins, lace, embroidery and beadwork which also add to the cost. Moreover, if the dress is custom-made for each of your bridal party, the cost of materials will be even higher. If you are looking to save money, consider choosing a less expensive fabric or opting for a simpler design with fewer details. Additionally, if you have a large wedding party, you can split the cost of materials among all of your maids.
The cost of labor
The cost of labor is another major factor in the price of a gown. Most gowns are not mass-produced, but rather custom-made according to the bride’s specifications. This means that they must be fitted to each girl of your squad individually. If your squad do not have the same body type, then the gowns must be tailored to fit each of your squad. This requires the expertise of a tailor and can add a significant amount to the cost of the dress.
In addition to tailoring costs, there are other labor costs associated with making a bridesmaid’s dress. The fabrics must be cut, the seams must be sewn, and the dress must be pressed or steamed after it is completed. All of these tasks require skilled workers and add to the cost of the dress.
How to save money on the attires?
Source: intimateweddings.com
When you’re planning a wedding, bridesmaid gowns are often one of the largest expenses after the venue and catering. Fortunately, there are several ways to save money on them.
1. Shop online: The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding affordable options for the gowns for your squad. Many online retailers offer significant discounts when you buy multiple gowns in bulk. eDresstore is one of the best places, their price range is from 39$ to 110$, with more than 120 colors, you are more than sure to have a perfect dress.
2. Look for sales: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales at local stores and designer outlets. You may be able to find gowns at a fraction of their normal price if you shop during a sale.
3. Rent: Renting attires for your bridal party is an excellent way to save money. You can usually rent the gowns for just a fraction of their original cost and then return them after the wedding.
4. Stick with one color: Choosing the same color for all of your squad’s gowns eliminates the need to buy different colors and styles of dresses for each girls. This will help you save money as well as make the entire wedding party look more unified.
5. Make your own: If you have some sewing experience, you can make your own gowns. This requires time, but it can save you a great deal of money in the long run. You can also look for patterns online or even at thrift stores.
No matter which option you choose, you can save money on bridesmaid dresses by being creative and keeping an eye out for deals and sales. With a little bit of effort, you can find beautiful and affordable bridesmaid dresses that will fit perfectly into your wedding budget.
When it comes to shopping gowns for your squad, there’s no denying they can be expensive. However, with some research and shopping around, it is possible to find a beautiful dress that fits your budget. Whether you opt for a more traditional look or something modern, there are many ways to save money on bridesmaid dresses. The key is to start early and be mindful of the cost of materials, labor, and the designer when selecting your dress. With the right strategy, you can have the perfect attire for your special day without breaking the bank.
