Ideas and Inspiration for the Bride and Groom

How To Thrift A Wedding Dress Like A Pro: Find Your Dream Gown For Less

Essential Information

  • With a little patience and some savvy shopping skills, you can find a beautiful, unique wedding dress that fits your budget and your personality.
  • The best way to find a thrift store wedding dress in your size is to visit multiple thrift stores and try on as….

With the average cost of a new wedding dress hovering around $1,500, it’s no wonder that many brides-to-be are turning to thrift stores in search of a more affordable option. Thrifting a wedding dress can be a great way to save money without sacrificing style. With a little patience and some savvy shopping skills, you can find a beautiful, unique wedding dress that fits your budget and your personality.

1. Start Your Search Early

The best thrift stores often have a limited selection of wedding dresses, so it’s important to start your search early. Begin looking for a dress at least six months before your wedding date. This will give you plenty of time to find the perfect dress and make any necessary alterations.

2. Do Your Research

Before you start shopping, take some time to research different wedding dress styles and silhouettes. This will help you narrow down your search and make it easier to find a dress that you love. You can find inspiration online, in bridal magazines, or by talking to friends and family who have recently gotten married.

3. Visit Multiple Thrift Stores

Don’t limit your search to just one or two thrift stores. Visit as many stores as you can to increase your chances of finding a dress that you love. Be sure to check out both local thrift stores and online thrift stores.

4. Be Prepared to Dig

Thrifting a wedding dress takes time and patience. You may have to dig through racks of clothes to find the perfect dress. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t find anything right away. Keep looking and you’re sure to find a dress that you love.

5. Be Open to Different Styles

When you’re thrifting a wedding dress, it’s important to be open to different styles. You may not find the exact dress that you had in mind, but you may find something even better. Be willing to try on different styles and silhouettes until you find a dress that makes you feel beautiful and confident.

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Alterations

Most thrift store wedding dresses will need some alterations to make them perfect for your big day. This is especially true if you’re buying a dress that is a different size or style than you normally wear. Find a good seamstress who can help you make the necessary alterations to your dress.

7. Accessorize Your Dress

Once you’ve found the perfect thrift store wedding dress, you can accessorize it to create a unique and personal look. Add a veil, jewelry, and shoes that reflect your personality. You can also add a sash or belt to give your dress a more polished look.

8. Enjoy Your Special Day!

On your wedding day, all eyes will be on you. You’ll be the most beautiful bride in the world, no matter where you found your dress. So relax, enjoy your special day, and let your love shine through.

9. Tips for Thrifting a Wedding Dress on a Budget

  • Set a budget: Before you start shopping, set a budget for yourself. This will help you narrow down your search and avoid overspending.
  • Be flexible: Be willing to compromise on some of your must-have features in order to find a dress that fits your budget.
  • Shop off-season: Wedding dresses are typically sold at a discount during the off-season (January-April and September-October).
  • Consider a used wedding dress: You can find used wedding dresses for sale online and at bridal consignment shops.
  • Get creative: If you can’t find a wedding dress that you love, you can always get creative and make your own.

10. Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Wedding Dress on a Budget

Thrifting a wedding dress is a great way to save money without sacrificing style. With a little patience and some savvy shopping skills, you can find a beautiful, unique wedding dress that fits your budget and your personality. So don’t be afraid to start thrifting today!

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: How can I find a thrift store wedding dress in my size?

A: The best way to find a thrift store wedding dress in your size is to visit multiple thrift stores and try on as many dresses as you can. You can also search for wedding dresses online using your size as a filter.

Q: What should I look for when buying a thrift store wedding dress?

A: When buying a thrift store wedding dress, you should look for a dress that is in good condition, fits you well, and is made from high-quality materials. You should also make sure that the dress is clean and free of any stains or tears.

Q: How can I make a thrift store wedding dress look new?

A: There are a few things you can do to make a thrift store wedding dress look new. You can have the dress cleaned and pressed, add a sash or belt to give it a more polished look, and accessorize it with jewelry and shoes that reflect your personality.

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About the Author
Sarah is the founder and lead writer for The Wedding Blog. With over 10 years of experience in the wedding industry, she's helped plan countless events across the country. Sarah started her career as a wedding planner in New York City where she thrived on the fast pace and creativity...