When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the most exciting yet daunting tasks for any bride-to-be is finding the perfect dress. From intricate lace to flowing tulle, wedding dresses come in countless shapes, styles and designs. But when it comes to wedding dress prices, how much does the average wedding dress cost in the UK?
How Much Does a Wedding Dress Cost?
The cost of a wedding dress varies widely depending on different factors, such as the fabric, brand and detailing. Whether you're shopping on the high street or splurging on a designer gown, there's a wedding dress to suit every bride and her budget. As you fine-tune your wedding budget, it's time to be realistic about wedding dress prices.
Ultimately, the perfect dress is the one that makes you feel beautiful and confident on your wedding day, regardless of its price tag. Here we explore the different factors that influence wedding dress prices and reveal how much a wedding dress really costs.
What Impacts Wedding Dress Prices?
The Material
From silk mikado and luxurious crepes to Chantilly lace, wedding dresses are created from a variety of fabrics. As you'd expect, the cost of the fabric plays a significant role in determining the price of the finished gown. Dresses made from high-quality, premium materials ultimately come with a higher price tag.
The Silhouette
The silhouette of a wedding gown can impact the price, too. Dresses with sculptural structures or voluminous skirts often require more fabric and intricate construction, driving up the cost. For example, a ball gown with a sweeping cathedral-length train is likely to have a higher price than a simple slip dress, due to the amount of material used to create it.
The Brand
The average wedding dress cost varies depending on the brand and designer. Like any other fashion industry, wedding dress brands vary in status. Gowns designed by a well-known, established bridal designer will command a higher price, while lesser-known brands may offer more budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
The Embellishments
From delicate beadwork to intricate embroidery, embellishments are often what makes a wedding dress stand out. However, they require meticulous craftsmanship and can significantly increase the time it takes to make the dress. Naturally, this drives wedding dress prices up.
The Collection
New wedding gowns are released in seasonal collections. Dresses from the latest collections often come with a premium price tag, while older styles are often discounted. Many bridal boutiques hold regular sample sales, allowing brides-to-be to pick up a designer gown at a lower price.
How Much Does the Average Wedding Dress Cost?
High-Street Wedding Dresses & Off-The-Peg Boutiques
For brides on a budget, high-street wedding dresses and off-the-peg bridal boutiques provide an affordable option. Look to brands like Monsoon, Coast, Whistles and wed2b, who all cater to a wide range of tastes, with prices typically ranging from £149 to £899.
Second-Hand Wedding Dresses
For eco-conscious brides or those looking to save money, second-hand wedding dresses offer a sustainable and budget-friendly option. Head to charity shops or second-hand bridal stores, like Bridal Reloved, to find pre-loved wedding dresses at a fraction of their original cost. Depending on the brand, second-hand wedding dress prices are anywhere between £150 to £3,000.
Bridal Manufacturers
Bridal manufacturers, such as Romantica, Maggie Sottero, and Enzoani, offer a middle ground between high street and designer prices. Here, the average wedding dress costs between £900 and £3,000. These brands provide brides with a wide selection of dresses, with something to suit everyone.
Designer Dresses
Brides seeking luxury and couture craftsmanship turn to esteemed bridal designers. The likes of Sassi Holford, Suzanne Neville, Berta Bridal and Galia Lahav are renowned for their exquisite designs and attention to detail, with prices typically starting from £3,000 and reaching upwards of £10,000.
Bespoke Wedding Dress
For the ultimate bridal experience, a bespoke wedding dress offers a completely unique aisle style. Working closely with a designer or dressmaker, brides can create a one-of-a-kind gown tailored to their exact specifications. Prices for bespoke wedding dresses vary hugely, depending on the complexity of the design, the experience of the dressmaker and the materials used.
Beyond the Price Tag
So, how much does a wedding dress truly cost? The answer, as you've discovered, depends on your priorities and wedding budget. From high-street steals to couture creations, there's a perfect dress waiting for every bride.
Remember, the most important factor is finding a dress that makes you feel radiant and confident on your special day.
Top Tip: Once you have a realistic idea of your budget, set a clear spending limit for your wedding dress and stick to it throughout your search. This will help you narrow down your options and avoid falling in love with a dress that's outside your price range.
Ready to start shopping for your wedding dress? Find the best bridal boutiques on Guides for Brides.
