It’s no secret that planning a wedding can get very expensive, very quickly — in 2016, The Knot reported that the average cost of a wedding was $35,329, a jump of over $2,000 from the year before. And if you live in an area like New York, you know that the average cost is even higher than that. Between the venue, the vendors, the honeymoon, and all of the little details, everything adds up fast. Oh, and then there’s the wedding dress, which can easily set you back thousands of dollars. That often doesn’t even include the cost of alterations or accessories, like shoes and jewelry. Because of the price, many brides are in search of wedding dresses that are more affordable. Can you blame them?
A classic white ball gown is always going to be pretty pricey, so if you’re looking for something affordable and cheaper, chances are good that you’re also hunting for something that is more unique. Unusual wedding dresses are having a moment as brides step away from staying super traditional, which is really fun — and bonus, they’re often a lot easier on your bank account. A lot of online boutiques and even some fast fashion shops are getting in on the wedding gown market, proving that you don’t need to spend a lot to look fantastic.
Here are a few unusual wedding dresses that you’ll be able to afford:
1. Jenny Yoo Display of Radiance Maxi Dress
[image_with_caption text=”ModCloth” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/10101581_CPGN_MAIN-1.jpg”]
Jenny Yoo Display of Radiance Maxi Dress, $325, ModCloth
If you’re looking for something with a little bit of embellishment, this beautiful Jenny Yoo maxi dress will do the trick. The mesh dress is covered in little metallic stars that are so different and fun.
2. Mischa Dress
[image_with_caption text=”BHLDN” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/46163481_012_a.jpeg”]
BHLDN Mischa Dress, $240, BHLDN
Not into the idea of wearing white? You definitely don’t have to. This beaded and chiffon dress is perfect, and it’s at a great price point. It comes in a gray or beige color.
3. Amanda Maxi Dress
[image_with_caption text=”Show Me Your Mumu” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/weddingcakebriday_day_21707.1529607765.jpg”]
Amanda Maxi Dress, $184, Show Me Your Mumu
If you want something more classic, relaxed, and simple, this maxi dress is a great option. There’s not much to it, but that’s one of the best things about it.
4. Midnight Memories Dress
[image_with_caption text=”Lulus” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/2545072_517692.jpg”]
Midnight Memories Dress, $112, Lulus
Maybe you want to be super casual and go with something very different, like a two-piece. That look is in right now! Keep it simple and inexpensive with this set.
5. Fringe Midi Dress
[image_with_caption text=”ASOS” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/9356283-1-oyster.jpeg”]
Fringe Midi Wedding Dress, $316, ASOS
Between the beading, the length, and the fringe, this wedding has a vintage Great Gatsby feel to it. It’s certainly unusual and so pretty.
6. Tati Dress
[image_with_caption text=”BHLDN” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/46464582_011_a.jpeg”]
Tati Dress, $265, BHLDN
This casual, off-the-shoulder boho gown is perfect for a relaxed beach wedding. The best part about it? You could absolutely wear this one again.
7. Gilded Grace Lace Dress
[image_with_caption text=”ModCloth” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/10075370_CPGN_MAIN.jpg”]
Chi Chi London Gilded Grace Lace Dress, $175, ModCloth
Wedding gowns are great, but there’s no law that says you can’t wear something shorter. This lace dress comes with a full skirt that will leave you feeling so glamorous.
8. Maxi Bridal Dress
[image_with_caption text=”ASOS” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Screen-Shot-2018-08-15-at-1.34.07-PM-e1534365289950.png”]
TFNC Plus Bridal Maxi Bridal Dress With Scalloped Lace and Open Back, $95, ASOS
If you love something that has lace and feels Victorian (but still very modern), this dress from ASOS is perfect.
9. Lizette Gown
[image_with_caption text=”Revolve” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/RZOE-WD195_V1.jpg”]
Rachel Zoe Lizette Gown, $625, Revolve
It’s hard to go wrong with this stunning gown, which is elegant and eye-catching at once. The ruffle along the shoulders really makes this stand out, even in its classic shape.
10. La Bella Midi Dress
[image_with_caption text=”For Love & Lemons” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/labellamidi-13-1.jpg”]
La Bella Midi Dress, $262.98, For Love and Lemons
This midi dress is definitely more on the casual side, but worn with heels and some nice jewelry, it’s perfect for a low-key wedding.
11. The Annie Gown
[image_with_caption text=”Fame & Partners ” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/FP2302-IVORY-1.jpg”]
The Annie, $599, Fame and Partners
It’s hard not to be blown away by this gown. The giant bow in front is so unusual and beautiful, and it looks even better with this very fun veil.
12. Flutter Sleeve Dress
[image_with_caption text=”Asos” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/8861319-4-1.jpeg”]
ASOS Edition Curve Flutter Sleeve Dress, $105.50, ASOS
Finding a wedding dress with sleeves can be extremely difficult — but this one has got them! And at about $100, you really can’t go wrong.
13. Jumpsuit
[image_with_caption text=”Stone Cold Fox” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/IMG_0904_2048x2048.jpg”]
Monet Jumper, $350, Stone Cold Fox
If dresses aren’t your thing, then wear a white jumpsuit. They’re elegant, fun, comfortable, and so, so different. This one will help you stand out on your special day.
14. Tulle Lace Overlay
[image_with_caption text=”BHLDN” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Screen-Shot-2018-08-15-at-1.39.43-PM-e1534365660153.png”]
Malcolm Dress, $280, BHLDN
If you want something off-white and more casual-feeling, this dress from BHLDN is so understated and effortlessly pretty. It almost requires you to get married in a forest, barefoot.
15. Floral Gown
[image_with_caption text=”ModCloth” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/10100847_IVRY_MAIN.jpg”]
Chi Chi London Authentic Elegance Maxi Dress, $250, ModCloth
Add some flowers to your gown — literally! This embellished maxi has a full skirt and will leave you feeling like the most fun bride ever.
16. Silk Gown
[image_with_caption text=”Stone Cold Fox” image=”https://itsblossom.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/180327_SCF_APRIL_ECOM44965_2048x2048-4.jpg”]
Gatsby Gown, $600, Stone Cold Fox
If you want to keep it super simple, buy this white silk gown. It’s stunning because there is so little to it, and it’s so unique because of that as well.