Where Can Recessionista Brides Purchase Affordable Wedding Gowns?

It’s no secret that everyone is feeling the side effects of the current recession.  However, a bride does not need to settle for less than she deserves in the gown area.  There are many options for the Recessionista bride looking for a knock out gown on a budget.   Whether you decide on purchasing a used gown from a thrift store, consignement store or online or if you decide on a new gown from a sample sale, discount bridal stores or again, online.  The internet has allowed this generation of the opportunity to find awesome deals from the other side of the Planet.   It’s no different with wedding gowns.  Of course you will need to be cautious of the size of the dress and know your measurements before purchasing a gown online.  Below are a list of local places to purchase an affordable gown (used and new) and some online vendors with a wealth of beautiful (and designer) gowns for even the $500 budget bride.  Check out the slide show for some inspiring bridal looks.  Happy dress hunting… and surfing!

1. David’s Bridal

David’s Bridal is probably the most recognized name in the bridal business. This bridal super store is known for it’s fabulous wedding gown sales and its huge selection of wedding gowns. It is also best known for it’s one-stop-shopping approach.

2. Weddingbee.com Classifieds

Weddingbee should be your second stop for all things wedding; Blackweddings.com being the first, of course. Weddingbee Classifieds has daily postings of many things for sale by Weddingbee members and guest. Included in these classifieds is a section dedicated to wedding gowns. Generally the gowns are used, but there have been quite a few new-with-tags gowns. The price ranges from quite affordable to ummm not really in my budget. There have been posting of designer gowns for half the cost, some of them being worn once and professionally cleaned. Keep in mind that these gowns have more than likely be altered, so remember to know your measurements before asking for more details on the gown.

3. PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com

PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com is an online bridal consignment store. As it’s name suggests, It has a large collection of previously worn wedding gowns at low prices. If you do not see the gown of your dreams on the website, they will work with you and locate the gown of your dreams. This is probably the best frugal find of the year! PreOwnedWeddingDresses connects buyers to sellers and you are able to negotiate directly with the seller. Many of the sellers are willing to cover the shipping cost and cleaning costs, if the gown is not already cleaned.

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About The Author

Danielle Shelbourne is the founder and executive designer of Sui Generis Events, a boutique event design and planning company based in Northern California. She fell in love with everything bridal 17 years ago watching her mother design flowers for weddings. Her legal background assures attention to detail in each element of her designs. Danielle also writes for the Examiner.com as the Sacramento Bridal Fashion Examiner. You can contact Danielle at sui.generis.events @gmail.com or sacbridalfashion@gmail.com.