Just cause you’re the momma, that doesn’t mean you have to look frumpy. We have a couple of tips to help you look fabulous for the big day.

1. Shop Early – Since most weddings are planned well in advance of the actual date, moms of the bride should take advantage of the end of season clearance specials and discontinued dresses that are often offered for way less than you will find anywhere else.

2. Expand Your Territory – Even if you live in the smallest town, the internet brings nationwide shopping right to your doorstep. Browse styles, colors, and designers online at different locations to compare prices. Many times there will be discounts available only to online shoppers. If you find something you love, go first to a dress store where you can have precise measurements taken before ordering. Also, it may be wise to have an alteration specialist on hand in the event you need some additional touch ups to the dress. Do not order online if you are in a hurry for a dress.

3. Capture Your Style – If you do happen to find a dress or two you love online or in a store but you can’t afford at full price, shop around online to find a similar dress that may be on sale at another location.

4. Think Outside of the Wedding Store – Interestingly, you can often find dresses that are very similar to those found in a wedding shop but cost way less if they are bought in a non-wedding store. Try a nice, dressy pants suit from a store like Ann Taylor or check out the clearance racks of your local Macy’s or Dillards for suits from brands like Tahari. Seems that putting the word “wedding” in front of another word, raises the price. Instead of shopping for mother of the bride gowns, try looking for shops that carry evening wear, cocktail dresses, or formal wear.

5. Go Consignment – Consignment shops are a great place to find an affordable mother of the bride dress. Shops typically are very particular about the merchandise they resell and since many mother dresses are only worn once, you can often find a basically brand new dress for a considerably less price.

6. Think of the Future – In most cases, wedding attire for the wedding party and parents of the bride and groom are bought simply for that one occasion. When shopping for a dress, consider a basic style that will be suitable for other occasions post-wedding. While you may be extending your budget a bit for the wedding, you could end up saving yourself top dollar down the road by having a nice, formal dress for other occasions. Skip beads and sparklers and go for basic but beautiful.

7. Budget Borrowing – If you find yourself in a situation where you have a non-existent budget when it comes to a mother of the bride gown, perhaps there is a relative or friend that would be happy to lend you their own dress. But make sure they’re a distance the relative or didn’t wear the outfit to a wedding where they were photographed.