Modern brides have wisened up. In a world of incredibly expensive weddings, brides are becoming more innovative. And you have no excuse with all the alternative options in this day-and-age. You no longer need to take out a small loan in order to afford your dream wedding dress. Enter used wedding dresses. Used dresses don’t have to be outdated, unattractive, or low-quality. You can find a jaw-droppingly beautiful dress by searching in more alternative locations.
Rent
If you’re not the sentimental type, you can save a lot of money by renting your wedding dress instead of purchasing it. After your big day, you will most likely stash your dress in the attic. Maybe you’ll pull it out for the next couple of anniversaries to reminisce. But bodies change, and once your reach the point when you no longer fit inside your wedding dress, you will be even less likely to try on your dress. The dress may yellow, decay, and reek unless it is stored in pristine conditions. If you can visualize this being your reality, skip the trouble and just rent your dress!
Rent the Runway
Rent the Runway provides high quality and designer dresses for any occasion at an affordable price. Once finding the perfect dress, you can reserve it for either four or eight days. The rental includes a free backup size and the company prides itself on quick delivery and exchanges. When your wedding is over, just drop the dress off at the UPS store — you don’t even have to worry about dry cleaning! Short and long, princess or A-line silhouette, pure white or colored, you have endless options for a reasonable price.
Borrowing Magnolia
Borrowing Magnolia offers a very similar service to Rent the Runway, but one that specializing in weddings. This site boasts a virtual sizer, a technology that matches you with fitting dresses. Select several options to try on at home and think about your options for up to five days. You will receive your dress four weeks before your big day and you can return it without even cleaning.
Pre-owned
Pre-owned wedding dress options allow for affordable prices that mirror those of rentals, but also allow you to make any customizations you want or need. The dress will be your very own and you can either sell it again or keep it.
Pre-ownedWeddingDresses.com
Pre-ownedWeddingDresses.com allows you to buy a pre-owned wedding dress, sell it back, and share your story. Prices start at $100 with thousands of options under $10,000. Each piece is unique, coming in one size, shape, and color. You can enjoy another woman’s dress and be assured that another bride will appreciate yours if you choose to resell it.
Tradesy
Tradesy not only offers pre-owned wedding dresses, but also pre-owned jewelry, accessories, veils, shoes, and decorations. Designers include David’s Bridal, BHLDN, Jenny Yoo, Allure Bridals, and Mariell. The company provides a free shipping kit and 24 hour service.
Thrift
Thrift stores carry second-hand clothing that individuals sell or donate once they are done with it. The brides that didn’t think about finding a used wedding dress and don’t find themselves needing their dress may do just that. Too bad that thought didn’t cross their minds… but you can capitalize on their naïveté! Even rented and pre-owned wedding dresses can’t compare to the price tags on thrift store dresses. You may have to put in a little extra effort, but your wallet and budget will thank you.
Thrift stores are always hit-and-miss, making examples difficult to compile. Many people have found success at such places, selecting unique pieces that complement their wedding and personality. The location of the thrift store will largely determine how many options you have or how modern those options are. Don’t forget that you can use some of the money you saved to make alterations. Goodwill and Salvation Army are located all over the world and their profits go to a great cause.