I actually found the perfect dress brand new at a nicer Goodwill! Originally $100, I got it on sale for $55. Originally a $3000 dress!
Our budget is about 1500, but i've seen SO MANY at David's in your budget. I want to stay around 1,000 to leave room for alterations. Definitely go online and look at what David's Bridal has in your range. You might be surprised!
Try David's Bridal when they have a sale, consignment shops or look at bridesmaid or other special occasion dresses. I ordered a Mori Lee bridesmaid dress in ivory. It's all lace and exactly like what I was looking for. I had a budget of 500 and ended up spending about half.
Mine is a Casablanca,orignal price $947 The shop I went to was having a sale so I ended up paying $ 603. It has straps, but, I'm having them removed.