Where To Buy Inexpensive Casual Wedding Dresses

Remember that most brides are looking for that traditional gown, so most bridal shops carry a much larger selection of these dresses. When looking for a simpler, less expensive wedding dress, be open to looking at stores other than bridal shops.

Department stores usually carry a pretty large selection of eveningwear, and if you time it just right, you might just hit the jackpot. Prom is a major moneymaker for department stores, and since no teen wants to be seen wearing the same dress as someone else, there are generally plenty of styles to choose from. Prom dresses are available in a variety of colors, including white, and unlike wedding dresses, the sizes are consistent with your clothing. Another advantage is that shortly after prom, department stores clearance out this year's line of dresses, so you can get one heck of a deal on the dress of your dreams. And even if you choose to buy your dress at full price, the cost of a prom dress is considerably less than a wedding dress, ranging from $60.00 to $200.00.There is also the advantage of buying from a large chain store. There will generally be another mall that has the same store, which will carry the same line, within close proximity. So, if you find the dress you want but not the size, call around. Find a store that carries what you are a looking for. You probably won't have to deal with the hassle of special orders. You will most likely be able to find bridesmaid's dresses as well, and generally at a fraction of the cost.

Another alternative when looking for a simple dress is to consider a bridesmaid dress. Bridesmaid's dresses are generally much simpler than a wedding gown, as no bride wants to compete with her bridesmaids for attention. The cost is much cheaper, and there is a wide variety of dresses available. Along with what is on the rack, bridal shops will generally carry catalogs with all of the dresses available for order.

Some of the larger bridals shops will also carry wedding dresses that can be bought off of the rack. Generally theses dresses are a previous year's line or discontinued styles. Although it will take some perseverance, sifting through all of the traditional gowns may just reveal a goldmine. Many of these dresses will cost as little as $100.00, and you will have the advantage of having an experienced bridal staff at hand that may know exactly what you are looking for.

There is also the option of having the dress of your dreams made for you. Is your mom a closet seamstress? Do you know anyone who can sew? If so, your local fabric store may be the place to look. Many pattern manufacturers carry a line of bridal patterns. The upside is that these dresses are generally sewn in pieces, leaving room for changes. They are generally more casual, as they are not only intended for the accomplished seamstress, but the everyday sewer.The cost will be comparative to most of the options listed above, depending of course on whether or not you have to pay for labor and what kind of fabric you choose for your dress. There will also be many patterns for bridesmaid dresses and flower girl dresses.

Other places to look include, consignment bridal shops, online auctions, online retailers, and vintage thrift stores.

Remember when looking for your wedding gown to be persistent. You may not find the dress you are looking for right away, but if you keep looking, you're bound to find exactly what you want.