It’s not uncommon for newly engaged couples to start flipping through a bridal magazine or perusing a popular designer’s site, only for the reality of their astronomical prices to settle in. 

It's not just you; many couples wrestle with the same sticker shock when looking at wedding expenses. 

To understand why wedding dresses can carry such a high price tag, it’s important to understand how they’re made, what factors influence final cost, and where you can afford to cut back for bigger savings.

This blog will dive into the nitty-gritty of what to consider if you want to tie the knot in a beautiful wedding dress without unraveling your budget.

When you touch a wedding dress, the first thing you'll likely notice is its fabric. These luxurious materials are soft, drape beautifully, and catch the light in just the right way, contributing to your gown's overall wow factor. Examples of high-end wedding dress fabrics include:

• Duchesse silk
• Charmeuse
• Mikado
• Dupioni
• Brocade
• Organza
• Chantilly lace
• Guipure lace
• Satin
• Velvet

But high-quality fabric can quickly elevate the price tag. So, what's a bride to do? 

If your heart's set on luxurious material but you want to save, consider dresses with a mix of premium and more affordable fabrics. Beautiful, more budget-friendly options for wedding fabrics include:

• Polyester satin
• Chiffon
• Taffeta
• Rayon
• Tulle
• Jersey
• Crepe
• Cotton
• Georgette
• Lace appliqués on netting

And remember, Accrue Savings can help you set up a savings plan to make that dream dress more attainable.

There's no denying the allure and status of a designer label. However, that exclusivity is often reflected in the higher price tag. For example, designer gowns can run into the tens of thousands of dollars.

For those seeking the designer look without breaking the bank, consider options like off-the-rack dresses from less famous designer names or even replicas.

It's often the little things that make a wedding dress truly special. Features that can turn a simple gown into a masterpiece include:

• Feathers
• Beading
• Embroidery
• Lacework 
• Sequins
• Ruching
• Sashes or bows
• Fringe

However, these embellishments require not only materials but skilled craftsmanship and time — lots of time. The more detailed the dress, the higher the cost.

But don't fret. If you're smitten with a gown with all the bells and whistles, prioritize what details matter most to you. Maybe it's the lace appliqué, the beautiful embroidery, or the elegant beadwork.

Once you know what you like best, look for dresses that focus on your chosen element when wedding dress shopping. 

Ever wonder why some dresses seem to fit like they were made just for you? That's the magic of underlying structures like corsets and boning. These features shape the gown and enhance its fit and silhouette, giving you that Cinderella moment as you walk down the aisle. 

But structure adds complexity to the dress's design, which often results in higher costs.

If you want that perfect fit but are wary of the higher price point, look for dresses with simpler but still effective structural elements. Remember, you don't need a full corset to achieve a stunning silhouette, even with more affordable wedding dresses. 

When it comes to your big day, you want a dress that speaks to you. Customizations allow you to add that personal touch that makes a bridal gown uniquely yours. From extra lace to custom embroidery or even a daring back design, the options are endless. But, these alterations come with additional costs due to extra labor and materials.

Before you jump into customization, think about what you really want to change about the existing dress. Do you want more detail or perhaps a splash of color? 

Once you identify what you’d like to change, you can figure out how to add enhancements to the wedding gown without spending more than you need to.

Ah, the allure of a limited-edition gown or an imported dress — it's tempting, isn't it? But that uniqueness often carries a hefty financial weight, especially when you add in exclusivity or import fees. 

For retailers in other countries, import duties can cost anywhere between 0-37.5% of the gown's price. Remember, anything valued over $800 USD is subject to duties and taxes. 

If you're looking for something unique but are cautious about the expenses, consider working with local designers or seeking out dresses made within your country. That way, you can avoid those pesky extra fees while still getting a one-of-a-kind gown. 

And remember, with Accrue Savings, you can set up a savings plan to help ease the financial burden of an exclusive find.

A grand, sweeping train can make your walk down the aisle feel like a scene out of a romantic film. However, longer dresses and elaborate trains require more fabric and, consequently, more labor to perfect those intricate details. All these factors can elevate the average cost of a wedding dress.

For brides who love the idea of a long dress but are mindful of the budget, consider a detachable train or a simpler hemline. 

Once you know what gown you want, it's rare for it to fit perfectly off the rack. Alterations are usually a necessary step to make you look and feel fabulous on your wedding day. From hemming the length to adjusting the bust and neckline, these changes can make a world of difference. 

When navigating alterations, get multiple quotes and know your priorities to avoid high costs that can sneak up on you. Maybe you can live without that added tulle but not without a well-fitted bodice, for instance.

Here's something you might not immediately think about: A wedding dress is more than just fabric and embellishments. It's a piece of art crafted by skilled hands, like the: 

• Designers sketching the initial concept
• Pattern makers and seamstresses bringing it to life
• Professionals at bridal boutiques who aid you in trying them on

Many people contribute their expertise to create and help you find your dream gown. These labor costs can make up a significant portion of the dress's price, but they also guarantee a high-quality, well-made garment.

A wedding look isn't complete without the right accessories. Be it a dazzling belt, delicate veil, or elegant jewelry, these little additions can make you shine even brighter on your special day. 

The key is balancing your chosen accessories with style and cost. Find things that enhance your dress without overshadowing it. And as always, be mindful of your budget. 

You've probably heard whispers about the dreaded "wedding tax," the mysterious upcharge that seems to apply to anything connected to the word "wedding." Whether it's the venue, the cake, or your dress, prices can soar simply because it's for a wedding. 

While this can be frustrating, being aware of it puts you in a better position to negotiate and explore alternative options.

One strategy to avoid this concern for bridal fashion is to look for white gowns that aren't specifically labeled as "wedding dresses." You'd be amazed at the differences in price you might see.

Rush orders and last-minute alterations can incur hefty fees that could disrupt your budget. The antidote? Planning ahead.

The more time you give yourself to find the right dress and make any needed alterations, the more options you'll have (and the less you'll pay in rush fees).

One way to manage your timeline effectively is to break down the amount of money you’ll need to spend month-by-month or even week-by-week. Accrue Savings specializes in creating realistic savings plans that help you budget for your gown effectively over time. Plus, we can get you up to 20% toward your wedding dress from the retailer to help you save even more.

Use Accrue Savings to save on your wedding dress

Your wedding day is one of the most magical moments of your life, but it can cost a lot of money. 

From the dress to the accessories and all those little extras, the costs add up quickly. That's where Accrue Savings comes in. 

As your go-to savings partner, we help you find deals and discounts on wedding-related purchases, including that dream gown. You focus on the "I do," and we'll help you handle the "how to afford it." 

Ready to make saving a part of your life and your wedding journey? Explore Accrue Savings now and make your dream wedding a financially achievable reality!