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Brides / Kristin Kempa
My mom often likes to boast she got married in a wedding dress under $100, and granted that was over 30 years ago, I still marvel at how she managed to find such a gorgeous and timeless gown without spending thousands of dollars. As it turns out, plenty of brands offer truly stunning options that look like a million bucks but can cost as little as $60 (yes, really).
Before you start your quest, it’s important to understand your personal style, says plus-size fashion blogger Abby Bible. “There are so many opinions from a million avenues thrown at you as a bride, so it’s really easy to lose your own wants in the mix of it all,” says Bible, who also tells us to “Remember that these are memories you’re going to look back on forever and you want to make sure you recognize yourself.”
To help you with your search, we consulted two fashion experts and scoured online retailers, taking into consideration material, length, silhouettes, and different types of brides. Whether you admire a bohemian flair or have a taste for vintage fashion, there’s an affordable wedding dress waiting for you.
Best Classic Design
Dress the Population Iris Slit Crepe Gown
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For a timeless silhouette that’s easy to move in, professional stylist Audree López recommends this gorgeous floor-length gown. The structured bodice and maxi length lends itself to a versatile style you can dress up with a waist belt, an intricate veil, and bold jewelry, she says. We’re particularly drawn to the thin straps, deep V, and high slit that give the classic look a bit more edge.
Price at time of publish: $198
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Maxi
Best Two Piece
David’s Bridal Chiffon Flutter Sleeve Bridal Separates Top and Skirt
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David's Bridal
Two-pieces are one of the more modern advancements in wedding dresses and can you blame us for being drawn to the flirty, cheeky style time and time again? Case in point: This show-stopper set pairs a breezy butterfly sleeve top with a surprising, statement-making bottom —lest we forget, Chiara Ferragni wore a similar dramatic full tulle skirt to the wedding. The best part? You can mix and match the separates with other pieces in your everyday wardrobe.
Price at time of publish: $80 for the top, $95 for the bottom
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Mini
More to Come Caira Ruffle Dress
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Revolve
“How cute would this be with a mini white headband veil or bow?” asks López, who puts visions in our head of us wearing this adorable mini dress at destination weddings and summer ceremonies. We love how the two-tiered playful ruffled neckline can be worn on or off the shoulders, depending if you’re feeling flirty or formal, and how its simple, fitted silhouette beckons unlimited options for outfit accessories.
Price at time of publish: $88
Size Range: XXS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Mid-thigh
Best Slip Dress
ASTR the Label Gaia Dress in Off White
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Shopbop
With its thin straps and cowl neck, this minimalist style slip dress takes several cues from Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, and offers any bride a comfortable option for the hours of celebrating ahead. But while it may feel like you’re lounging in any casual slip, it’s the added accouterments like a slightly ruffled hemline and high slit that will give you a dreamy, bridal glow.
Price at time of publish: $98
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Crepe | Length: Midi
Best Midi
Adrianna Papell Sleeveless Mikado Fit & Flare Midi Dress
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Adrianna Papell
Whether you’re drawn to the silhouettes of the ’50s or can’t resist twirling in a full circle skirt, a fit, and flair gown is a universally flattering style. Especially this one, which López recommends for its shorter style that’s “fashion-forward, but it also makes for a no-fuss bustle gown.”. Complete with pockets, a square neckline, and a low V back, we have a feeling this will be in your outfit rotation for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $160
Size Range: 0-20 | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best for a Beach Wedding
Show Me Your Mumu Jasmine Halter Midi Dress
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Show Me Your Mumu
A beach wedding has no rules, just the promise of a breathtaking ocean-front view and a dress to match the coastal aesthetic — however, this garment may be bespoke for the outdoor venue. Hitting just below the knees, its midi style ensures you won’t be subject to a train full of sand, it has a silhouette that drapes frames effortlessly, and its low back shows the right amount of skin.
López is also fond of its halter neckline that’s “super romantic paired with an updo,” and she likes how its high neck is stylish enough to wear without jewelry.
Price at time of publish: $178
Size Range: XXS-XXL | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Lace
Azazie My Dearest White Lace Sleeveless Midi Dress
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Azazie
Just ask Dua Lipa, a fit-and-flare silhouette knows how to draw the eyes, and with intricate lace detailing this dress keeps them there. The all-over lace detailing is breathtaking, reminding us of the fairytale imagery we had in our heads (and on our Pinterest boards) before we even had a partner in our lives.
Price at time of publish: $69
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Midi
Best Whimsical
Altar’d State Arabella Maxi Dress
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Altarâd State
Do your wedding dreams consist of a cottage-core ceremony à la Ella Enchanted? The Arabella Maxi Dress makes all of them come true with its sheer flower detailing that overlay a floor-length gown with a high slit. It also has thin straps that crisscross in the back for an additional bit of interest — and they’re adjustable so which may mean you can skip a trip to the tailor.
Price at time of publish: $190
Size Range: XS-L | Material: Polyester | Length: Floor
Best Jumpsuit
Lulus Romantic Eternity Ivory Satin Strapless Jumpsuit With Overskirt
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Lulus
While some brides purchase a different dress for the ceremony and reception, this fabulous jumpsuit gives you two outfits in one. Strut down the aisle in a head-turning circle skirt before unfastening and debuting the tailored jumpsuit underneath.
The wide skirt and detachable features are certainly statement-makers, but we’re equally impressed by the added details that make the look truly memorable, like elegant back buttons and a fold over strapless neckline. What’s more, with its contemporary ankle-length style and sleek seamless style, López also loves that you can re-wear the jumpsuit beyond your wedding day.
Price at time of publish: $179
Size Range: 2-10 | Material: Textured woven satin | Length: Full
Best Plus-Size Jumpsuit
Bridal by ELOQUII Flare Sleeve Jumpsuit
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ELOQUII
Jumpsuits are a frequent star in courthouse weddings and more casual ceremonies for their modern, no-hassle feel attitude. This jumpsuit by Eloquii ticks those boxes while elevating the simple style with a satin finish, cowl neck, and floor-length pants. The flare sleeves and wide length nod to a vintage style without looking full 70s — though, we’re confident it's still comfortable enough to boogie in all night.
Price at time of publish: $139
Size Range: 14-28 | Material: Non-stretch satin | Length: Floor
Best Long Sleeved
Lulus Elegant Eternity White Mesh Ruched Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress
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Lulus
The long, sheer mesh sleeves that mimic the look of full-length gloves first drew our eyes to this stunning dress. With its ruched body, sweetheart back, and off-the-shoulder style, the dress isn’t totally dissimilar to Hailey Baldwin’s custom-made gown, and we’re sure you’ll make an equally lasting impression wearing it.
Price at time of publish: $99
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Floor
Best Under $50
Cider Solid Woven V-neck Buckle Up Maxi Dress
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Cider
What if we told you that you could wow your entire wedding party and social media feed for under $40? It’s hard to believe how affordable this dress is given its attention to detail, such as the beautiful buttons that extend to the cuffed sleeves and down the fitted bodice. The silhouette definitely nods to a more old-school style, but a deep V and middle slit keep it firmly in the 21st Century for our more modern brides.
Price at time of publish: $34
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester, spandex | Length: Midi
Best for Reception
House of CB Emanuela Ivory Draped Ruched Mini Dress
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Nordstrom
There’s a certain thrill that mini wedding dresses offer (hello, Kourtney Kardashian), but whether you’re walking down the aisle in one or saving it for the reception we suggest opting for a memorable silhouette like this one. Ruching creates a gathered, ripple effect throughout this dress for a modern-chic look that highlights curves and flatters figures of all body types. And, although it features a steep neckline and micro length, internal boning provides the structured fit with more support.
Price at time of publish: $195
Size Range: XS-L | Material: Polyester, elastane | Length: Mini
Best for Backyard Wedding
House of CB Christabel Ivory Floral Shirred Midi Dress
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House of CB
Maybe the gardens of Bridgerton inspired you to take your ceremony outdoors or you seek a more intimate ceremony – either way, floral prints pair well with a backyard venue. While the delicate pattern of sweet yellow roses is certainly on par with the theme, its lightweight breezy fabric, and thin tie straps make the perfect style for warmer weather.
Price at time of publish: $195
Size Range: XS-L | Material: Polyester | Length: Midi
Best Fringe
ASOS Design Beaded Embellished Bandeau Midi Dress in White
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ASOS
Never confined to one just one aesthetic, fringe is quite the rulebreaker. From flapper dresses to the Western aesthetic, it has branded certain styles for centuries, so why not incorporate the look into your wedding dress? With its lace-up back and kick slit, we can’t imagine having anything less than a roaring-good time shimming around in this strapless number.
Price at time of publish: $200
Size Range: 0-14 | Material: Polyester | Length: Full
Most Playful
Bridal by Eloquii Feather Hem Slip Dress
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Eloquii
Between its short length and feathered hemline, this dress is equivalent to a sparkling glass of prosecco: Bubbly, festive, and oh-so-fun. Its satin finish and deep V steal elements from a classic wedding gown style without venturing too far into the traditional territory. Want to punch up the look even more? Add a pair of long drop earrings, a funky necklace, or a waist belt.
Price at time of publish: $179
Size Range: 14-28 | Material: Stretch woven satin | Length: Mini
Best Black
Rihoas The Black Tie Strap Satin Maxi Dress
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Rihoas
There are a lot of ways you can stray from being a traditional bride and wearing a black dress might be the boldest one yet — didn’t the ultimate fashion trailblazer SJP herself wed in a night-shaded number after all? With its feminine tied straps, timeless square neckline, and flattering silhouette, we think this one from Rihoas is an excellent option for the non-conventional bride.
Price at time of publish: $45
Size Range: XS-XL | Material: Polyester | Length: Full
Meet the Expert
Abby Bible is a plus-size fashion blogger and influencer based in New York City.
Audree López is a stylist, editor, and fashion consultant based in New York City.
What to Look for in a Wedding Dress Under $200
Silhouette
You can still stay within your budget and comfort level while opting for a “slip dress, tea-length dress, or even a matching top and skirt set or suit,” says López. For under $200, brands have options in practically any silhouette you want. Shop from universally flattering A-line gowns, curve-hugging mermaid fit, and impressionable fit-and-flare dresses until you find one that suits you.
No matter which one you choose, a pro-tip from Bible is to buy your wedding dress in a size up so the tailor has more leeway to make it perfectly fit your body while still maintaining the integrity of the silhouette.
Fabric
Word to the wise: Invest in shapewear. Even if the fabric offers full coverage or is fully lined López says “If the material is super shiny, like some less expensive silk or satin blends, it can show every imperfection, undergarment line, or detail when photographed.”
Why Trust Brides
Irene Richardson is a contributing beauty and fashion writer for Brides, InStyle, Byrdie, and Travel and Leisure. For this piece, she spoke with fashion experts Audree Kate López and Abby Bible for their recommendations and expert opinions on finding the perfect wedding dress under $200.