A lot us have thought about our wedding day one time or another. I've gotten a lot of questions lately about non-traditional bridal looks on a budget. I've worn all white looks a few times that some of my readers have duped and made their wedding day look. I love it because this means (for the most part) that you are staying under a $500. Personally, I did the tradition wedding dress. You can see that post here. If you don't go with the full gown with all the fluff there are still so many dresses/looks out there that will still make you look amazing on your wedding day. Even if you do want to do the traditional dress, but want a different reception look this post will help with that as well. Here are some quick tips to help you avoid some pitfalls with finding your dress:
- Give yourself time - You won't need a year, but I still would give myself 5 - 6 months to find the dress. A lot of these places are online, so give yourself time for returns and re-orders on sizing.
- Take your dress to the tailor - You want that perfect fit and let's be honest most off the rack clothing does not fit us perfectly.
- Buy big - If you are between sizes get the bigger size and tailor down. Rather too big that be fixed with simple alterations than too small.
- Accessorize - Accessories are an excellent way to amplify your look on a budget. There are so many options, but some of my favorites come from Etsy.
- Read the reviews - Reviews give you a lot of insight on fit, delivery, etc. Especially when purchasing from Etsy.
- Be cautious about ordering from far far away lands - International shipping can be a disaster, especially in the case that you need to return. The etsy shop that I have listed, I have had great personal experiences from. Again, read those reviews.
- Know return policies!
Here's some gowns that I scouted:
JIBRI - Both beautiful, stylish, and budget-friendly all at the same time, both gowns are under $700. This designer also offers quite a few other non-traditional options. You can see them here. You can also visit their showroom in Atlanta.
Kiyonna - These dresses go up to a 5X and are both under $400. Check out their entire line here.
Modcloth - With sizes up to 4X, you can snag a wedding dress for under $200. The first dress pictured is here and second is here (and under $80).
Fanfaronada (Etsy) - I have two skirts from this seller. You've seen this designer's skirt in my Kellis recreation and my Christmas look. You may not see your sizing, but she does custom pieces. I have gotten her pieces custom to my measurements. You will need to know your correct measurements to order. I would even order a couple inches bigger for good measure and just have it taken in later if needed. Please note that her items come from Poland and take about 4 weeks to arrive. The seller communicates great. You can get an entire look for around $500.
P.S. My looks - 1. Lane Bryant (soldout) 2. Eloquii 3. ASOS (soldout)