What makes a bridal party dress expensive?

Typically hand-beading, embroidery, and luxe fabrics, such as silk, tend to make a bridal party dress more expensive.

When should I order my bridal party dress?

To be on the safe side, we suggest ordering your bridal party dress at least six months before the wedding date .

Does the bride pay for the bridal party dresses?

If the bride can afford to, it's a very thoughtful gesture; however, it's not required of the bride to pay for the bridal party dresses.

19 Best Affordable Bridesmaids Dresses of 2022

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Bridesmaids in slip dress — Photo by KT Merry

There's no denying that being in a wedding can really add up. For the bridal party, there's the bachelorette party, the bridal shower, and a whole host of other little costs that can pop up, even before the wedding day comes into play. So when it comes to finding the perfect bridal party dresses, consider options that are not only stylish but also affordable. Whether you're tying the knot in the spring or summer, fall or winter, there's no shortage of gorgeous and budget-conscious dresses to dress your bridal squad in.

Expensive fabrics like silk and details like hand-beading and embroidery can increase the overall price of a bridal party dress.

From velvet gowns to off-the-shoulder midis to pretty pastel styles, affordable bridal party dresses come in a multitude of silhouettes and fabrics that look and feel luxe. For bridesmaids with a classic aesthetic, there are scores of budget-friendly bridal party dresses crafted from simple chiffon with elegant necklines. For bold tastes, styles in punchy colors and prints are an unexpected approach. And for the laidback bride, effortless silhouettes, such as sheaths and slip dresses, always make for an easy and timeless choice.

To help you narrow down your choices (and get the most bang for your buck), read on for the best bridal party dresses under $100.

Best Wrap Dress: TFNC Multi Way Maxi Dress

Size Range: 2-12 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Polyester

With ties that can be crisscrossed at the back or wrapped around the waist, this dress offers your bridal party the opportunity to create their own unique look.

Best Short Dress: TFNC Bridal Party Long Sleeve Wrap Front Sateen Midi Dress

Size Range: 2-12 | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Sateen

Short and sweet, this silky design is perfect for a spring wedding. We love it with simple jewelry, block heels, and a bouquet of wildflowers.

Most Versatile: Birdy Grey Chiffon Dress

Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Chiffon

Each one of your maids is truly unique so why don't you give them the chance to showcase their personal style with a convertible dress? This chiffon dress can be tied in a myriad of gorgeous ways.

Most Comfortable: Reformation Fitted Bodice Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Cotton

Leave it to Reformation to make a chic and affordable style that your bridal party will actually want to wear again. We're picturing this laidback mini at a backyard wedding or casual seaside ceremony.

For a Beach Wedding: Birdy Grey Convertible Dress

Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Chiffon

This off-the-shoulder seafoam-colored dress is cool, calming, and chic. If you're planning on having a destination wedding, this pastel hue will look stunning against the backdrop of the ocean.

Best Maxi: Lulus Georgette Plunging-V Dress

Size Range: XXS-XL | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Polyester

If you're searching for flattering and sexy, you can't go wrong with this leg-baring maxi with a plunging neckline.

For a Black-Tie Wedding: Azazie Floor Length Crepe Dress

Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Stretch Crepe

Even for the swankiest of occasions like a black-tie wedding, there's an affordable bridal party dress out there to suit any wedding dress code. This sleek and sophisticated floor-length style would be right at home at a formal wedding.

Most Sultry: SheIn Deep-V Neck and Backless Dress

Size Range: XS-XXL | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Satin

Sexy yet sophisticated, this sultry style comes highly rated on Amazon and is available in seven punchy colors. The thigh-grazing slit is just right for a wedding under the stars (and the after-after party that follows).

For a Summer Wedding: Boohoo Cold Shoulder Wrap Midi Dress

Size Range: 4-12 | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Chiffon

Perfect for a summer or destination wedding, this midi-length ruffle dress is easy, breezy, and romantic. Pair this style with strappy sandals and statement earrings.

Best Halterneck: Birdy Grey Halter-Neck Dress

Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Mesh

Brides with a bohemian sensibility—this ethereal dress is for you. Style this gown with a wildflower bouquet and a flower crown to complete the look.

Best Blush: Lulus Blush Pink One-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Polyester

A sweetheart bodice and flowy chiffon fabric give this blush number a decidedly romantic aesthetic. The one-shoulder neckline and high empire waist make it a flattering option for bridesmaids.

Best Maternity Style: Birdy Grey Sheer Neckline Bridal Party Dress

Size Range: XS-3XL | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Mesh

Don't forget about your pregnant bridal party members! Featuring an empire waist and loose-fitting skirt, this Birdy Grey style is a stylish and comfortable option for the expecting.

For a Spring Wedding: Lulus Swiss Dot Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Size Range: XS-XL | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Polyester

This Swiss-dot style is as sweet as ever for a romantic spring or summer wedding. Plus, the powder blue hue is flattering on every complexion.

Best Slip: DB Studio Shiny Charmeuse Cowl Neck Slip Dress With Slit

Size Range: 0-26 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Charmeuse

It doesn't get more sophisticated than a sleek and modern slip dress, especially when done in deep emerald green. That being said, slip dresses aren't for everyone so make sure to check with your girls first!

Most Romantic: ASOS Design Tulle Plunge Maxi Dress With Bow Back Detail

Size Range: 0-14 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Tulle

If you’re a bridal party member who loves romantic details like a dreamy bow back, layers of tulle, and gauzy fabrics, then you can’t go wrong with this fairy-tale-esque ASOS dress. Bonus: The powder blue hue is downright ethereal.

For a Backyard Wedding: Plum Pretty Sugar Peony Off-the-Shoulder Dress

Size Range: 2-10 | Length: Maxi-length | Materials: Cotton

We love this floral and soft pink dress for an afternoon garden wedding. Details like a sweetheart neckline, a smocked bodice, and petaled shoulder straps, make this style all the sweeter.

Best Lace Sleeves: Azazie Navy Blue Lace Midi Dress

Size Range: XS-2X | Length: Midi-length | Materials: Lace

If you're having a cold-weather wedding but velvet isn't really your speed, consider another textured fabric like lace. If your wedding is taking place outdoors, consider investing in some wedding shawls to keep your bridal party warm.

Best Halter: Azazie Lennon Halter Dress

Size Range: 0-30 | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Chiffon

Be prepared to make an entrance in this stunning halter-neck gown. A tasteful slit, A-line pleated skirt, and lovely lilac hue make it perfect for a spring wedding.

Best Jewel Tone: Birdy Grey Devin Convertible Dress

Size Range: XS-3X | Length: Floor-length | Materials: Chiffon

For a versatile color that can easily be worn to a spring or fall wedding, opt for emerald green. This rich jewel tone is flattering on all skin tones and pairs beautifully with metallic accessories.

What to Look for in Affordable Bridal Party Dresses

Shopping for an affordable bridal party dress doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style to stay within budget. In fact, many retailers and designers offer budget-friendly bridal party dresses in all the latest colors, trends, and silhouettes.

Once you start the shopping process, it's important to pay attention to fabric details and product descriptions. Why? These descriptions will tell you everything you need to know about a dress, right down to whether it's lined or made from a shiny or matte fabric. If you're unsure of what a certain color or fabric will look like in real life, ordering swatches can help you make a more informed decision. Lastly, when you're working within a budget, it's important to always factor in the cost of shipping and alterations.

FAQ

What makes a bridal party dress expensive?

Typically hand-beading, embroidery, and luxe fabrics, such as silk, tend to make a bridal party dress more expensive.
When should I order my bridal party dress?

To be on the safe side, we suggest ordering your bridal party dress at least six months before the wedding date.
Does the bride pay for the bridal party dresses?

If the bride can afford to, it's a very thoughtful gesture; however, it's not required of the bride to pay for the bridal party dresses.

16 Dream Wedding Dresses Under $1,000

Why Trust Brides

Contributing writer Sophie Moore is a former fashion editor at Brides and is an expert in all things bridal attire, from couture wedding gowns to the perfect "something blue" accessory. She researches and sources the best fashion items for brides, grooms, wedding guests, wedding parties, and more.