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Budget Bride

Pam Beesly Wears David’s Bridal

October 14, 2009 07:49 AM | Comments (1) | Posted in budget bride, television, davids bridal

The Office Wedding

What: Fans of The Office, take note. You may still be searching to find your own “Jim,” but that doesn’t mean you can’t hurry up the process by picking up the same wedding gown that Pam Beesly wore on last night’s episode of The Office. Pam’s crinkle chiffon A-line wedding gown (style T9552) is currently selling for $399 at David’s Bridal stores nationwide, while the silver dresses her bridesmaids wore (style F12732) are selling for just $145 a piece.

What David’s Bridal Says:
“As an experienced and stylish businesswoman, Pam Beesly knows that choosing David’s Bridal, the nation’s most trusted bridal authority, will guarantee a beautiful wedding.”

What We Say: Okay the above sentence read just a little too “markety” for our taste- but we still love Pam and think this is a great example of product placement done the right way. It would have been weird to see Pam heading down the aisle in a $4000 Vera Wang, but David’s Bridal is just right her alley.

Footwear Brands Focus On Budget Brides

June 30, 2009 06:00 PM | Comments (1) | Posted in budget bride, wedding shoes, wedding budget

What: With footwear sales sagging thanks to the economy, a number of budget-conscious brands such as Payless ShoeSource, Mary Norton, Nina Shoes, and Cole Haan are focusing on building their wallet-friendly bridal collections. Although Payless in particular has offered dyeable dress shoes for years, the retailer is now pushing its Unforgettable Moments by Lela Rose capsule collection—which includes kitten heels, slingbacks, and strappy heels for $24 to $45—on brides who may be looking to cut costs on their wedding day fashion. 

From WWD:
“There’s always going to be a buyer for bridal, and there’s always going to be a market for it,” said Patricia Pao of Pao Principle, a retail consultancy in New York. “The second a girl gets engaged, she starts looking for the dress, and shoes are the natural progression.”

What We Say: Many bridal fashions have been notoriously overpriced for years, which is why any chance to find wedding-day apparel that doesn’t break the bank is a welcome event. Price wise, Payless’ line really hits the spot for brides who looking for fashionable heels that don’t cost hundreds. Not to mention, the less money you spend on footwear the more money leftover for the honeymoon—and everyone knows that’s where the action is anyway.

Affordable Gifts for Your (Female) Wedding Attendants From Target

May 16, 2009 08:00 PM | Comments (2) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, bridesmaid, budget bridesmaid

maid of honor

With all the planning and sometimes drama that goes into putting together a wedding, gifts for your wedding party is the last thing you want to worry about. And while it’s a good idea to give a gift to your attendants, you don’t have to spend a small fortune doing so. I stumbled upon this section online at Target, which is perhaps the only store that really gets how to do the whole high -low thing, that has a slew of affordable gift options for your wedding party, most under $20.

Here’s some of my favorites:

 

Fashion Advice: Summer Wedding Outfit

May 16, 2009 01:00 PM | Comments (0) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, fashion advice, wedding, floral print dress

Floral print dress

THIS PRODUCT IS NO LONGER BEING SOLD

Dear Budget Fashionista

I am attending a night wedding aboard a river cruise in Newport Beach. Is it appropriate to wear a floral-ish print skirt, solid color sweater top with pashmina scarf and white sling back shoes? Or is this too “daytime” for a wedding?

A: Although this outfit would be fine for a day time wedding, it’s a little too “day” for a night wedding. The wedding is in the evening on a boat, so think about what you would wear to a dinner on a cruise or what you would wear to a cocktail party.  My advice would be to wear a floral printed cocktail dress (not skirt), like the one shown to the left, for $59.00 at Spiegel.com .

Fashion Advice: Is it Okay to Wear Black to a Wedding?

May 16, 2009 07:00 AM | Comments (19) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, wedding dresses

polka dot dress

Dear Budget Fashionista,
I have a wedding to attend in late June and I found a black dress with small white polka dots that I love. Is it a fashion don’t to wear black to a wedding?

Answer: While wearing black to a wedding shouldn’t necessarily be your first color choice, it’s not as much of a fashion “faux pas” anymore, especially for formal evening weddings.. My advice is to where the black polka dotted dress (polka dots are very “in”, right now) but pair it with a red/yellow/white belt and a similar color shoe to brighten the outfit up a bit.  If you want something new, try this Silk Polka Dot Dress, for $99.00 at Spiegel.com

Party Planning Guru Steve Kemble Teaches TBF How to Throw a Budget Friendly Wedding

May 15, 2009 01:00 PM | Comments (0) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, budget wedding, steve kemble

Click on the player below to listen:

steve kemble

Steve Kemble is THE top event and party planner in the US, winning more awards than Meryl Streep at the Oscars and hooking up parties for everyone from NFL players to US Presidents. Steve’s flair for fashion and style lead him to become a member of US Weekly’s Fashion Police and his celebrity style critiques and comments can be found bi-weekly in the magazine. You can catch him on the new Style Network series “Married Away”, holding up his rep as America’s Sassiest Lifestyle Guru.

Cheap Bridal Shoes

May 15, 2009 06:00 AM | Comments (5) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, cheap wedding shoes, bridal shoes on a budget, budget bridal

cheap bridal shoe

Dear Budget Fashionista,

My daughter is getting married soon and she found the wedding shoes of her dreams…but the price unfortunately is a nightmare ($345.00!!) Can you suggest some great bridal shoes for less?

Answer:  Your daughter needs take a big step back. Of the many things you have to spend money on for your wedding outfit, bridal shoes should be at the bottom. Why? Well unless your wearing a cocktail length wedding dress, no one, I repeat, no one will see your shoes. You won’t even be able to see them.  The main requirement should be that they are comfortable and stylish enough that in the off chance someone looks down at your feet, you won’t be embarrassed.

Here’s some ideas:

Unforgettable Moments by Lela Rose Diana T-Strap Pump, $24.99 at Payless.com.


Touch Ups Women’s Sharmain Pump
, $56.95 at Endless.com

J. Renee Ruched Satin Pump, $84.95 at Nordstrom.com

Liz Rene Couture Women’s Melissa Sandal, $86.95 at Endless.com


Touch Ups Women’s Roseanna Dyable Sandal
, $53.95 at Endless.com

Blowfish Lavilla Sandal, $39.95 at Dillards

Dezario ‘Montage’ Sandal, on sale for $94.95 at Nordstrom.com

Dyeables Madison Sandal, $41.95 at Endless.com

You may also want to try a place like DSW Shoewarehouse. I bought my wedding shoes, a pair of strappy Kenneth Cole Sandals, for $9.99.

Where to Get A Black Bridesmaid Dress on a Budget

May 14, 2009 06:00 PM | Comments (9) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, little black dress, bridesmaid dress

black bridesmaids

Dear Budget Fashionista,

Do you know of any place to buy an affordable, cute “little black dresses”? The dress must be wearable as a bridesmaid’s dress for an evening wedding.

Answer: Try the Merona line at Target, which has a large selection of affordable, stylish black dresses, like the one shown to the left, all for under $50. I love the fact that they are available in a wide range of sizes 2-18 (and additional colors).

You can also check out the sales racks at stores like Nordstrom’s Rack, Dillard’s, and Macy’s. Online stores like eDressMe and Bluefly, is a great option when you’re looking for a designer dress (Bluefly has fabulous Nicole Miller dresses) at a discount.

27 Bridesmaid Dresses for Less than $100

May 14, 2009 12:59 PM | Comments (1) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, budget wedding

“SOME PRODUCTS ARE NO LONGER BEING SOLD”

The movie 27 Dresses probably feels familiar to most of us, we’ve all got a few odd and overpriced bridesmaid frocks jammed in the back of the closet. Do your bridesmaids a favor and look over our 27 dress picks for under $100, each of which would give them something pretty to wear again without cleaning out their savings account.

Purple Bridesmaid Dresses

purple bridesmaid dresses


1. Crisscross-front Georgette Dress, $69.00 at Newport-new.com
2. Sheath Dress, $79.00 at Spiegel.com
3. One-shoulder Beaded Dress, on sale for $44.99 at Newport-news.com

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Blue Bridesmaid Dresses- Short

blue bridesmaids dress


4. Women’s Linen-Blend Ruffle Dresses, $29.50 at OldNavy.com
5. Meet Your Match Turquoise Strapless Dress, $47.00 at Lulus.com
6. Georgette Colorblock Dress, on sale for $39.99 at newport-news.com

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Blue Bridesmaid Dresses- Long

blue brides maiddresses long


7. INC Studded Jersey Maxi Dress, $66.75 at Macys.com
8. Night Way Strapless Satin Dress, $90 at Dillards.com
9. Shirred Dress, $99.99 at Chadwicks.com

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Pink Bridesmaids Dresses

pink bridesmaid dresses


10. Silk/cotton floral dress, $84.99 at Banana Republic
11.
Hot Pink Ruffle Halter Dresses by 03 Everly
, $70.00 at eDressMe.com
12. Strapless Satin Dress, $13.50 at Forever21

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Pink Bridesmaid Dresses

pink bridesmaids dresses


13. Juniors’ Xhilaration® Strapless Bubble Dress, $24.99 at Target.com
14. Merona Collection Taffeta Party Dress, $39.99, at Target.com
15. Michelle Dress, $29.99 at dELiAs.com

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Red Bridesmaid Dresses

image


16. Mossimo Black: Strapless Ruffle Front Dress, $39.99 at Target
17.Luster Party Dress, $27.80 at Forever21.com

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Red Bridesmaid Dresses

image


18.Together Chiffon Dress, $79.00 at Spiegel.com
19. Solid Basket Weave Strapped Dresses, $86.00 at eDressMe

20. Shirred Surplice Dress, $69.00 at Newport-News.com

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Yellow and Green Bridesmaid Dresses

yellow green bridesmaid dress


21.Dip Dye Waterfall Dress, $59.99 at Arden B.
22. Tiered Silk Party Dress, $98.00 at Arden B
23. Merona Collection Halter Party Dress, $39.99 at Target.com

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Black Bridesmaid Dresses

black bridesmaid dresses


24. Pleated Poplin Dress, $59.50 at Gap

25. Paparazzi Dress in Black by Ark & Co, $48.00 at Lulus
26. Evan Picone Floral Lace Crepe Dress, $99.00 at macys.com
27. Mossimo Black: One Shoulder Special Occasion Dress, $32.99 at Target

Budget Bridesmaid Dresses: Fashion Advice

May 14, 2009 07:00 AM | Comments (8) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, budget bridesmaid dresses

budget bridesmaid dresses

Dear Budget Fashionista,
I am getting married in July - Yipee! I was wondering if you have any suggestions of where to locate bridesmaids dresses that will not take months and months to receive and can fit modest budgets.

Answer: It used to be that bridesmaids dresses were where good taste went to die. Any joy you felt for your friends pending nuptial was replaced by the dread of having to pay $300 to wear some ugly puffy dress. Fortunately, times have changed. Here’s some great options for bridesmaid dresses on a budget:

1. Coco Myles has great customizable dresses that are available in a variety of colors and sizes (from 2- 32). The dresses start at $125, which is a bit pricey, but it’s a great option if you have a wide variety of sizes and shapes in your wedding party.

2. You can also purchase formal dresses from the Merona Target line at Target.com. The big box retailer has a pretty impressive collection of formal dresses, most for under $50 in sizes 2-18. 

3. You can also take a peek at this summer’s new girlie cotton dresses,  available at stores like Gap, J Crew, and Old Navy. Make these dresses bridesmaid formal by putting a wide ribbon around the waist and asking your bridesmaids to wear heels.

4. Also try stores like Newport-News.com, Spiegel.com, and Chadwicks.com

5. You can also go the traditional route by heading to a place like David’s Bridal. The store has a wide range of sizes, but the look can be a bit generic.

Last but not least, many brides are choosing to let their wedding party pick their own dresses.  This is perhaps the cheapest option, but you run the risk of your bridesmaids choosing a dress that may be a bit too casual.

Happy Shopping,

The Budget Fashionista

Vintage Wedding Look for Less, Ring and Diamond 101, Veils, Win a Free Dress and More

May 13, 2009 11:00 PM | Comments (0) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, budget gifts

Bridal Cheek has a keen eye for budget wedding style!  The vintage glam trend is way hot right now, and you can pull together a fantastic head to toe bridal look for under $300!

Worried your man might be clueless about diamonds?  Need a quick 101 yourself?  Fear no more; Style School finds the brilliant Ring Tutor, a handy database on everything you need to know about diamonds, settings, price, and ring budgets.  Best of all, this handy tool has a Hint Hint feature.

Etsy remains one of the best places to scout unique and very special wedding touches; check out Etsy Wedding Blog’s latest top ten vintage wedding item finds.

Vintage Glam Weddings takes a peek at one of the latest trends in modern weddings; the birdcage veil. 

For the other special girl on the big day, check out Once Wed’s adorable DYI flower basket - entirely customizable, budget friendly, and fabulous.

Oh, and speaking of the flower girl… Style Me Pretty has some beautiful picks for flower girl dresses by Monsoon. 

A quick brush up on these wedding-invitation language is an absolute must, if you’re the bride printing them, or you’re the guest planning to attend.  From I Will to I Do reminds us about the importance of including appropriate instructions for your guests such as “Black Tie Optional” - if that’s what you want your guests to wear. 

Junebug Weddings has a beautiful lookbook full of wedding fashion trends - from hair, makeup, jewelry, flowers and even lingerie, this series is worth a peek to get you inspired for your own fashion choices. 

BlissTree alerts us to a very cool contest for one lucky bride who will be provided the wedding dress of her dreams… free!  Play a quick game of match-up on their site, and be entered for a chance to win. 

After the Wedding: Five Quick Uses for Your Wedding Dress

May 13, 2009 08:00 PM | Comments (2) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, do it yourself, wedding dresses

wedding dress

1. Make a Quilt. If you have a family member or friend who is into quilting, you can have them turn your wedding dress into a quilt. This is a great option for those who don’t have children or only have sons (it makes a great gift to them when they’re getting married)

2. Dye it. Depending on the fabric, you may be able to have your dress professionally dyed, so you can wear it again as an evening gown.

3. Shorten it. Have the dress shorten and wear it as a cocktail dress

4. Sell it. Hopefully, you will only get married once, so if you’re not the sentimental type, sell your wedding dress on eBay or craigslist. Often, you can recoup up to 75% of the price of the dress.

5. Save it. You may have a family member who would be interested in using the dress.

Do you have other great tips for reusing a wedding dress? Post them below…

Plus Size Bridal Gowns on a Budget

May 13, 2009 07:00 AM | Comments (4) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, plus size fashion, ebay, goodwill, lane bryant, bridal fashion for less, budget wedding guide, Plus Size Bridal

plus size wedding dress

Q: I am a plus-size bride in dire need of a beautiful wedding dress on a budget. I live in the New York area and everything seems to be in a size two.

A: There are many options out there for brides on a budget, including plus-size brides. Here are a few:


Lane Bryant.com
The fashionable plus size bridal company has created a line of beautiful and budget bridal gowns for plus size fashionistas. Collection features simple sleeves dresses, similar to the weddings dresses designed by J.Crew, for under $150 dollars.  Read my review of the line


The Bridal Building
1385 Broadway
New York City
This is the place where many designers have their showrooms and sales offices. These showrooms are open to the public on Saturdays and you can find designer dresses from 30% off retail prices. Tailors are available on the spot.


The Bridal Suite of Manhattan
262 West 38th Street, Suite 1701
New York, NY 10018
Tel: 212.764.3040, Fax: 212.764.3018
Contact: Bernadette Pleasant
bpleasant@BridalSuiteNYC.com
A large selection of styles and prices. Call ahead to see if they are having a trunk sale.


Last Call Neiman Marcus
Woodbury Commons (Central New York) and Franklin Mills (outside of Philadelphia, PA.)
These outlets of the high-end Neiman Marcus store carry a wonderful selection of gowns, for up to 80% off their retail price. Sizing is hit or miss, though I have spotted plus-sizes before.


Kleinfields
110 West 20th Street
New York, New York 10011
Phone (646) 633 4300
e-mail: info@kleinfeldbridal.com


THE place to shop in New York for bridal gowns is Kleinfields and the store featured on TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress”. Brides travel here from as far away as Washington, D.C. Kleinfields has a large selection of gowns to fit every size and price range. Call ahead for an appointment.

David’s Bridal
location: wherever there’s women…but one Manhattan location on 25th and 6th Ave
A large selection of affordable, but somewhat plain,  plus size wedding dresses.


Local Thrift Shops
Thrift shops can offer wonderful bridal treasures, if you don’t mind wearing a second-hand dress. It’s always worth taking a look at your local Salvation Army or Goodwill stores. In New York City, also check out Housing Works Thrift Shop in Chelsea.


If you can’t find your perfect dress at any of these stores, try finding it on the internet. Online bridal shops like CocoMyles, Watters.com and Bridal Shop at Yahoo can offer a wide range of sizes and cheaper prices because there is little store overhead. Also try eBay, which has a huge selection of plus-size bridal gowns, some new and some not so new. When using eBay, make sure you ask for several pictures of the item and purchase with a credit card that has buyer protection—not a debit card. That way, if any problems develop, you might be able to get a refund from your credit card company.


Happy Shopping,
The Budget Fashionista

How To Find A Great Mother Of The Bride Dress On A Budget

May 12, 2009 07:00 AM | Comments (0) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, bridal fashion for less, budget wedding guide

tahrai palm beach pants suit

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.

Budget Wedding Calculator, Do It Yourself Tips on Decor, Flowers, Fashion, Eco Friendly, and More

May 11, 2009 11:00 PM | Comments (3) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, budget wedding, budget bridal links

budget wedding links

How much do couples in your area spend on a wedding?  Use the Real Simple’s wedding cost calculator to get a state-by-state breakdown of wedding budgets. 

Last month’s earth day inspired tons of creative and stylish eco-friendly ideas that can be incorporated into your wedding; check out Trend Setting Wedding’s cool finds, such as a 100% recyclable vase, organic florists and very chic recycled invitations.

Offbeat Bride put together a smart guide on How to Plan A Wedding from Afar .  Make sure you check out both part 1 and part 2 for very handy tools, templates, organizational tips, and even advice on how to choose a venue from 2000 miles away.

2000 Dollar Wedding has an amazing start-to-finish “Conception to Reception” wedding planner, with one uber-important principle in mind; the budget! 

Even for those of us without crafty skills, do-it-yourself projects can be a big way to cut down on a wedding budget… especially when all the instructions are laid out for us!  Stylish Events Blog has 101 (that’s right - over one hundred!) gorgeous DYI projects and ideas to make your big day more affordable.  Check out their full list, which includes DIY gifts, favors, fashion details, and tons of decorative touches.

With This Ring features another simple and inexpensive project for a budget wedding; 60 second centerpieces! From delicious looking fruits, to elegant candles and glassware, many home items can be re-purposed into chic decor. 

How to Find a Cheap (and Stylish) Wedding Dress

May 11, 2009 06:00 AM | Comments (1) | Posted in budget bride, budget wedding dress, cheap wedding dress, budget bride guide

j crew cheap wedding dress

The scariest show on TV has to be WE TV’s Brideszilla. The smokey thing that eats people on ABC’s Lost ain’t got nothing on the Brides on that show. What is scarier than the brides themselves is the money they spend on their weddings, especially their wedding dresses (in one episode one bride took out a second mortgage so she could buy a $5,000 wedding dress… what??). There’s no reason to go that crazy on a wedding dress.

Here are 5 ways to still get a great, cheap, wedding dress on a budget.

1. Hunt for the Bargains –  Many stores have annual sales on bridal gowns and several top wedding dress companies hold sample sales- although most of these sales are held in the fall.  These sales can be quite ridiculous and most don’t have fitting rooms, so wear a swimsuit or catsuit so you’ll be able to try on the dress without showing your goodies to the entire store.

Try:
Filene’s Basement Bridal Gown Sale
David’s Bridal Bridal Sample Sales (usually held in the fall)
Kleinfeld’s (Of TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress) Sample Sales


2. Gently Used Works Great – Some brides may cringe at the idea of a second hand dress but the reality is it makes good financial sense, especially when heading to a consignment shop. Consignment shops do not generally just accept any item unless it is in top-notch condition and since most folks only wear their wedding dress once, your likely to find a great deal on a dress. A couple of things to be aware of; know the return policy and get it in writing, compare the consignment/thrift price with the retail price of a brand new version (it should be at least 50% off the retail price), and make sure to check the garment for any strange smells, marks, stains, etc.

Try:
eBay.com
ShopGoodwill
GreeneStreetConsignment
Wore it Once
Once Wed
Encore Bridal

3. Go Non-Traditional – You don’t have to have a sleevelss, white, satin wedding dress with a 5 foot train in order to get married. Brides not afraid to think outside of the box can save a bucket of cash on a dress if they shop outside “wedding” stores. Plenty of department and other types of stores offer white and ivory dresses that are suitable for any occasion, including a wedding. No one will know, nor should they care, where you found your dress.

Try:
Lightinthebox
eDressMe.com
CocoMyles
Bluefly.com
OldNavy.com
Nordstrom.com

4. Search Online– Shopping online for a wedding dress is a great option if you know the type of dress that you want AND you have plenty of time before the event (at least 6 months) to take a bit of a chance.

Try:
Lilywedding.com
Milanoo
Watters.com
Dessy.com
Overstock.com

5. Hit Up a Relative – Why not borrow a wedding gown from your mom, sister, or cousin? Most wedding gowns are stored away and never used (or seen) again. Asking a loved one for a dress loan may start a new tradition in the family. Ask if you can alter the dress to your own specifications, saving you a ton of money.


Photo: Silk Tricotine Dress, $325 at JCrew

Budget Wedding Guide

May 10, 2009 07:00 AM | Comments (1) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, bridal fashion for less, budget wedding guide

budget wedding fashion

Dozens of money-saving tips on how you and your wedding party, can look fabulous for the big day without breaking the bank

Tips for the Bride’s Dress:
Three Places For Buying Budget Wedding Dresses: Find out where three of the biggest key spots to scout for budget wedding dresses are, and learn what you should expect in terms of stock, sizing, variety, and more.
How to Get A Cheap Wedding Dress: Can’t even afford budget wedding dress outlets?  Here are some out-of-the-box ideas on how to score a wedding dress for even less money.  If you can bear wearing a used dress, then these tips are for you!
Ideas for Dresses Under $100, and Ideas for Non Traditional White Dresses: Now, these particular dresses chosen by The Budget Fashionista are no longer in stock, but these gowns can be fantastic inspiration for the bride who simply wants a chic, formal white gown.  Many white dresses can be pulled off with aplomb by the creative, confident bride!
Plus Size Bridal Gowns: TBF lists seven amazing places to score a plus size bridal gown, and singles out THE single best place in New York to scout out first.  We even have the phone number and email address you absolutely should (must!) call to book an appointment.

Other Tips for the Bride:
Reviews and Thoughts on the Target Bridal Collection - Budget Fashionista brides chimed in on our review of the Target Bridal collection - find out how much they spent on fantastic weddings, to gage your own spending limits.  From dress rentals, outdoor decor, choosing a bridesmaid dress from your own closet, grocery store flowers, and rave reviews of David’s Bridal... check out all the comments for fantastic ideas on how to cut costs.
Budget Bridesmaid Dresses : Don’t stick your bridesmaids with unwearable, unbearable gowns…  Check out The Budget Fashionista’s picks for a money-saving customizable dress store, and check out our list for sweet cotton dresses. 
Piperlime’s Wedding Guide: Don’t forget the shoes!  Piperlime, with the help of InStyle Wedding, has a fantastic new Wedding Guide dedicated solely to wedding chic.  From floral appliques, to pretty pleats, Piperlime has the perfect, affordable shoe for every hot new bridal trend.
Style Me Pretty: For amazing do it yourself wedding ideas, check out the fabulous wedding blog, Style Me Pretty.  From crafty cakes, simple and chic invitations, memorable gifts for guests and countless gorgeous details, this blog is a must see!

Tips for a Guest:
Don’t get caught breaking the strangely complicated dress code of wedding guests!  The Budget Fashionista breaks it all down for you:
- A summer night wedding outfit, for example, should channel elegance and cocktail party. (Summer Wedding Outfit Advice)
- Is it ever okay to wear black at a wedding? Its not so taboo anymore, but remember to liven it up.  Get the full scoop on accessories, shades, shoes, and trend report. (How To Wear Black at a Wedding)
- In helping a reader find the perfect winter wedding dress, we list the best places to score a wedding guest dress online, and in New York City (What To Wear to A Winter Wedding)
- Don’t forget check out our great guide on how to shop Bluefly.com! 
- And for the all important woman at a wedding (no, not the bride!), a chic new style is to wear a non-traditional mother-of-the-bride outfit.  Consider a soft, pale pantsuit, coupons for Lord and Taylors’ great dress collection, and simple, elegant seasonal colors.  Check out the full guides here: Non-Traditional Mother of the Bride Outfits, and Budget Mother of the Bride Outfits.

Fashion Advice: What to Wear to a Winter Wedding

May 16, 2008 02:06 PM | | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, budget wedding, fashion advice

torrid formal dress

Dear Budget Fashionista,

I need to find a unique, pretty dress that I can wear to a winter wedding. Do you know of any places to find really cool dresses, around mid-length, that aren’t too expensive? I have to shop online because I live in a rural area.

Answer:
The best places, hands down, to find a cool designer dress (on sale) to wear to a wedding online are eDressMe.com and Bluefly.com. Check out their selection of ABS, Helen Wang and Nicole Miller dress at MAJOR discounts. Also try Stylebug.com, Overstock.com and SmartBargains.com. If you’re petite, try stores like wetseal.com and forever21.com to find cute dresses on a budget. If you’re plus size sites like Alight.com and Torrid.com.

Wedding Dresses for the Non- Traditional Bride on a Budget

June 13, 2007 05:00 PM | Comments (4) | Posted in budget bride, bridal fashion, wedding dresses on a budget

There’s now several, economical options for brides to be. But what about the non-traditional bride? Here’s some budget friendly dress and outfit options (all for under $300).

Mature Bride

    Pregnant Bride:


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