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Let's be honest, discussing budget is probably your least favorite part of wedding planning, and we don't blame you. While there are many areas you can save (think guest list and DIY invitations), the last thing you want to do is sacrifice style and quality when it comes to your wedding dress. The good news is you don't have to!
With a stunning assortment of affordable wedding dresses flooding the market, many coming in under $1,000, you'll be sure to find a dress that fits your style and venue. Hoping for intricate beading? No problem. Aiming for a delicate lace overlay? Yes, it’s possible. Prefer a pared-back slip dress? Gorgeous options abound. Inexpensive bridal gowns do exist, and they’re just as stunning as their more costly designer counterparts.
"When shopping for affordable wedding dresses, the key features to look for include fabric, silhouette, fit, and ease of movement," says Catherine Seaton, the Vice President of Marketing at Windsor. Opt for styles that make you feel confident and beautiful, match the aesthetic of your wedding theme and venue, and are comfortable enough to strut your way down the aisle with ease.
To help narrow down your options, we've researched the best affordable wedding dresses with these features in mind. Having a laidback summer wedding? We love the Anna October Asymmetrical Dress and the Mumu Rome Twist Gown. For something elegant and chic, our top picks are the Rat & Boa Ophelia Dress and the David's Bridal Off-the-Shoulder Ballgown.
Read on for the best wedding dresses under $1,000 to suit every stylish, price-conscious bride.
For a Backyard Wedding
Show Me Your Mumu Empire Waist Twist Dress
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Courtesy of Show Me Your Mumu
Size Range: XXS-3X | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
This universally flattering silhouette is one of our favorites because it looks amazing on just about everyone. Both laidback and glamorous, this silky style features a twist at the bodice and flutter sleeves for a little extra oomph to the relaxed vibe. Bonus: It comes in eight stunning hues.
Price at time of publish: $198
For the Summer Bride
Anna October Snowdrop Asymmetric Maxi Dress
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Moda Operandi
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, cotton | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 28 days
A fitted bustier bodice meets a flowy, asymmetrical skirt for a design that's as captivatingly simple as it is sexy. We love how the weighted hem allows the dress to hang impeccably without sacrificing movement.
Price at time of publish: $805
For a Black-Tie Wedding
David's Bridal Collection Off-the-Shoulder Ball Gown
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David's Bridal
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within seven days
We can't get enough of this timeless and elegant look. A classic ball gown will never go out of style—meaning those wedding portraits will stand the test of time. Pair it with a cathedral-length veil for enough drama to deliver that princess moment you've been dreaming of.
Price at time of publish: $629
For the Modern Bride
ZHIVAGO It's No Game One-Shoulder Asymmetric Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Neiman Marcus
Size Range: 2-12 | Material: Polyester/Elastane | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
Oh, the power of a chic one-shoulder moment! Ruching at the waist creates a strong and beautiful silhouette, while subtle striped detailing adds a sumptuously soft texture.
Price at time of publish: $600
For a Beach Wedding
Reformation Butterfly Dress
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Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Viscose | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
Minimalist with a hint of romance, this breezy dress is begging to be worn to a casual backyard wedding or seaside nuptials. Pair it with a perfectly undone hairstyle for an effortlessly gorgeous finish.
Price at time of publish: $298
Best Mini
Amsale Bow Back Dress
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Courtesy of Amsale
Size Range: 00-28 | Material: Silk | Shipping: Six weeks | Return policy: Within 14 days
Go on, show off those legs! This strapless, short wedding dress is fun, flattering, and all wrapped up in a big bow in the back.
Price at time of publish: $385
Most Customizable
Fame and Partners The Nancy Dress
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Courtesy of Fame and Partners
Size Range: Made to measure| Material: Polyester | Shipping: 12-14 weeks | Return policy: Within 30 days
For the bride who wants a say in their dress design, this option puts the power in your hands. With options to line the bodice, remove ruffles, and change the neckline, you have the ability to create a dress that is uniquely you.
Price at time of publish: $379
Best Slip Dress
Rat & Boa Ophelia Dress
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Courtesy of Rat & Boa
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Material: Satin | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
You may have already guessed that there's more to this slinky slip dress than meets the eye. This slip is anything but ordinary, featuring a sexy cowl neck and divine scoop back with a detachable chain.
Price at time of publish: $280
Best Sparkle
Bronx and Banco Mademoiselle Bridal Midi Dress
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Courtesy of Revolve
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
Nothing sparkles in wedding photos quite like an all-over sequin dress. Whether you choose to wear this stunner as a ceremony dress, reception dress, or after-party dress, you'll be sure to make an entrance.
Price at time of publish: $805
For the Vintage Bride
BHLDN Belize Dress
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BHLDN
Size Range: 0-18 | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
For the bride with a vintage style, this dreamy embroidered dress is a sentimental no-brainer. With subtle beading, an empire waist, and a deep-V neckline, the look will surely transport you to a bygone era.
Price at time of publish: $298
Best Two-in-One
Nookie Adore 2Way Strapless Dress with Detachable Bow
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Nylon, polyester, spandex | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
Fashion-forward and unique, this mini features a bold detachable train that takes you from the aisle to the dance floor in one fell swoop. Now that's a design we can get behind.
Price at time of publish: $369
Best Column Dress
BHLDN Ludlow Gown
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Courtesy of BHLDN
Size Range: 00-26W | Material: Polyester | Shipping: Standard delivery | Return policy: Within 30 days
The modern—and usually quite minimal—column dress gets a very romantic upgrade with this design. Soft, all-over lace and sweet cap sleeves add an elegant touch while the sweeping train creates maximum flourish.
Price at time of publish: $650
Best High Neckline
Jenny by Jenny Yoo Dawson Dress
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Courtesy of Jenny Yoo
Size Range: 00-18 | Material: Crepe | Shipping: 20 weeks | Return policy: Final sale
This gloriously timeless halter dress—with its clean lines, impeccable princess seams, and plunging back—definitely has our attention. Plus, it's a dead ringer for the reception gown of a certain duchess.
Price at time of publish: $995
Best Reception Dress
Windsor Timelessly Chic High Low Lace Dress
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Courtesy of Windsor
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Shipping: 3-14 business days | Return policy: Within 30 days
This party-ready number is perfect for your reception outfit change, rehearsal dinner, or bridal shower. The embroidered floral lace design and the body-hugging fit are timelessly chic for any special occasion.
Price at time of publish: $59
Best Slip
Reformation Ronda Silk Dress
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Reformation
Size Range: 0-12 | Material: Silk | Shipping: 2 business days | Return policy: Within 30 days
You can never go wrong with a stunning slip dress. It's chic, it's classic, and it can definitely be worn again long after the wedding. Stay monochromatic with your accessories for a minimalist look or experiment with color to make a bold statement.
Price at time of publish: $748
Most Glam
Jenny Yoo Zara One-Shoulder Sequin Column Gown
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Anthropologie
Size Range: 0-19 | Material: Sequin, Polyester | Shipping: 4-8 business days | Return policy: Within 30 days
We couldn't do a wedding dress roundup without throwing a little sparkle into the mix. Or, in this case, a lot. All-over sequins on a simple silhouette are always a winner in our books, and the one-shoulder neckline adds a beautiful element.
Price at time of publish: $495
For the Minimalist Bride
Elliat Aisle Dress
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Revolve
Size Range: XS-XXL | Material: Polyester | Shipping: 2 business days | Return policy: Within 60 days
Sophisticated, silky, and slinky, this exquisite slip dress was crafted with the unfussy bride in mind. Keep accessories simple for the ultimate pared-back aesthetic.
Price at time of publish: $190
What to Look for in a Budget-friendly Dress
Fabrics and silhouette
Familiarizing yourself with different types of wedding dress fabrics can help you get a better sense of what a gown will look and feel like. Plus, it can help narrow down your options within your budget. "Classic lace and sequin are among the more affordable options," says Seaton. Certain luxe fabrics like silk or those made from natural fibers will typically run up the cost. Also, keep in mind, simple silhouettes like slip dresses or shorter lengths are less expensive as they require less fabric.
It's also a good idea to consider what silhouettes will work best for your body type and personal style. "Whether looking for a traditional ball gown or a sleek fitted silhouette, each style will fit every body type differently, so it’s important to always try on a lot of styles."
Design elements and details
No two cost-conscious wedding dresses are alike, so it's important to understand what's contributing to the price. Some design elements might increase the overall cost of a gown. Hand beading and embroidery also can drive up the price of a wedding dress, as can any additional details or accents.
"Some additional details to look for include a waist seam that accentuates the waist and adds an hourglass silhouette, adjustable straps to ensure you get the perfect fit, lined bra cups are great, especially for strapless dresses, plunging necklines so that you don’t have to worry about finding a bra that won’t show, and pockets for tucking away tissues, lipstick or more," says Seaton.
Fit and Comfort
"When you try on your dress, make sure you sit down, dance around, practice throwing your bouquet, etc. to help you find the perfect fit," Seaton recommends. "A dress with fabric that has a bit of stretch is always nice to ensure flexibility and comfort throughout the day."
Retailers and sales
If you've got expensive tastes and aren't willing to compromise, be on the lookout for sample sales or end-of-season clearances to find the one. Vintage stores or rental websites can also be gold mines of reasonably priced designer finds. You can also shop higher-end retailers for evening wear or cocktail attire that can pass as bridal wear. When setting your budget, remember to include the potential cost of shipping and alternations.
Meet the Expert
Catherine Seaton is the Vice President of Marketing at Windsor, a fashion brand that has made beauty accessible to all women since 1937.
Why Trust Brides
Brides contributor Sophie Moore has worked in the fashion industry for over seven years. Her access to bridal designers and experience in the market brings readers the latest wedding dress trends and a view of the ready-to-wear and accessories market from the lens of what a bride is looking for.
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