Unreasonable dress budget?

I bought my dress on a website called The Real Real for $350. From what I understand alterations for bridal gowns are somewhere between $350-500. So I don't see why you couldn't' t stay within that budget! Granted, my dress is not a ballgown or lace or blingy. But I know there are sites like Oncewed and preownedweddingdress.com that sell already worn gowns at a fraction of the price. Good luck!

I'll be honest, it will be tough. Keep an eye out for David's $99 sale. Look at clearance dresses at bridal stores. Check out consignment stores or second hand dress sites. Also look at bridesmaids dresses that would look good as a wedding dress or formals that would also work. As for alterations, choose a dress that will be cheaper to alter. For example, if you find that dresses need to be shortened, choose a dress with a plain hem, not one with lace at the hem. In my experience, dresses without a lot of detail (lace, beading, etc) are less expensive to alter. Find a local alterations store. They typically do better work at cheaper prices.

You can do it!!! Check out David's Bridal sales, ModCloth, BHLDN, and department stores online--I keep finding beautiful simple dresses for $150-$500 when I browse! Also, don't be afraid of bridal consignment shops!

In addition to all the advice from pp's about how to find a less expensive dress, there are lots of things that will influence the cost of your alternations (besides where you're located and who you choose). First will be how close you are to the ordered dress size/measurements. If you have a pretty "standard" body shape/size/height, obviously it will be easier to find a great dress that fits you. The better it fits initially, the less work you'll need to have done in alterations. (Also, beware that sample dresses in bridal stores are going to be very stretched out -- so just because the sample fits perfectly, the same size of a new dress might fit very differently. Daughter tried on an 8 sample, and it seemed huge on her -- they literally clipped about 4" at the waist. When they measured her, she was a perfect size 8 on the designer's size chart. That's what we ordered and it fits perfectly!) Second, different styles of dresses and different design elements are going to influence the cost of alternations. A closely fitted mermaid gown that needs alterations in the bust, waist and hips to fit right is likely to cost more to alter than an A-line or ball gown. A corset back will also give you more flexibility on fit, if you like that style. Also, if you're going to need to have the dress shortened, the more layers and design elements, like lace edging at the hem and appliques, the more work & cost in the alternations. Choose your style and fit wisely, and you'll likely be better able to control your alternations budget. Finally, things like an illusion back are going to influence the type of undergarments you might need -- those can be really pricey! If you choose a dress that will allow you to wear less-expensive undergarments (that you might already own), you'll also reduce your total costs. Good luck! I do think it's very possible for a bride who does her research and then sticks to her budget & plan.