When you’re getting married, the dress isn’t just a dress—it’s a symbol of your love and commitment. But the gowns themselves are a huge source of anxiety for many brides-to-be, especially given that they’re not just worn for a day—they’re built to last through a lifetime. And a lot of time and resources go into making that perfect dress for your special day. That’s why they tend to be pretty expensive—but are they worth the splurge? We spoke to an expert who breaks down everything that goes into the price tag of a wedding gown, and how you can save.
The Cost of the Fabric
According to Dami Olukoya, founder of black-owned womenswear brand Imad Eduso, “The biggest thing that drives dress prices is the quality and design of the fabrics used in your dress.” Some materials are more costly than others because of their production process and how long it takes for a seamstress to work with them. Embroidered and beaded lace, for example, can add up quickly because they are hand-stitched on the dresses, which can take hours and even weeks to complete.
Other factors that contribute to the price of a wedding dress include the fabric type, style and sizing—”Smaller sizes are more expensive because they have to be custom made, so you’re paying for a bigger piece of material that has to be cut and altered,” Olukoya says. She adds that if the designer uses premium fabrics like silk or satin, those are also more expensive because they’re generally more delicate than standard bridal fabrics like chiffon and cotton.
Another often-overlooked cost is the alterations. Almost every dress needs some sort of tweaking to ensure that it’s picture-perfect, including taking the side seams in or out, shortening straps and adding ties or buttons for a bustle. This can add up to $500 or more to the total bill.
One more thing that may surprise you: the undergarments. Some dress styles require specific shapewear or bras to support the wearer, especially when it comes to plunging necklines and backless designs. And, of course, a bride needs shoes to match—which can easily add up to $200 or more.
Sustainable Wedding Gowns
In an industry that leans towards overconsumption, a second-hand dress can be a meaningful, personal and sustainable choice. Plus, it can also be a fun way to try out different silhouettes and fabrics before you commit to a new gown.
While it’s still taboo to walk down the aisle in color other than white in Europe and European-dominant countries (even though most royal brides used to opt for gold), the world has gotten much more open to non-white wedding dresses. Some designers have embraced the movement, using upcycled or recycled materials and even local production to create their bridal gowns. These choices can make a statement about the bride’s environmental values and her desire for something unique to herself on her big day.