Weddings are joyous occasions, and as the mother of the bride or groom, you’ll be in the spotlight nearly as much as the happy couple.
Finding the perfect outfit is essential, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
With careful planning and savvy shopping, you can look stunning while sticking to your budget. Here’s how:
Top tips for budgeting for your mother of the bride / groom outfit
1. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Before you start shopping, decide how much you’re comfortable spending on your outfit.
This budget should include not just the dress but also any accessories, shoes, and potential alteration costs.
Having a clear budget helps you stay focused and prevents overspending.
2. Shop Smart: Sales, Discounts, and More
Take advantage of sales, promotions, and discount events.
Sign up for newsletters from your favourite stores to be the first to know about upcoming sales.
Outlet stores, consignment shops, and online resale platforms like Vinted or eBay can be treasure troves for high-quality, gently used dresses at a fraction of the original price.
Don’t be afraid to explore these options—you might find something truly unique!
3. Think About Resale Value
When choosing your dress, consider whether it’s something you could easily resell afterward.
Opting for a timeless style or a popular designer label could make it easier to sell, allowing you to recoup some of your costs.
Alternatively, dress rental services can offer you a designer gown at a fraction of the purchase price, and you won’t have to worry about storing it afterward.
4. Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Wedding Events
Choose a versatile dress that can be styled in different ways for various wedding events.
A neutral colour or classic silhouette allows you to change up your look with different accessories, shoes, and jackets.
This strategy not only maximizes your investment but also reduces the stress of finding multiple outfits.
5. Consider Custom-Made Options
If you’re not finding what you want within your budget, consider having a dress custom-made.
Sometimes, a local seamstress can create a beautiful, made-to-measure dress at a lower cost than purchasing a designer gown.
Plus, you’ll get exactly what you want, tailored perfectly to your body.
6. Shop Off-Season
Another great way to save is by shopping for your dress in the off-season.
Most shops often have end-of-season sales where you can score significant discounts.
Even if your event is months away, buying your dress during these sales can help you stay well within your budget.
7. Borrow Accessories
You don’t have to buy everything new.
Consider borrowing accessories from friends or family members. A beautiful clutch, a piece of jewelry, or even a pair of shoes can be borrowed to complete your look without adding to your expenses.
Plus, wearing something borrowed can add sentimental value to your outfit.
8. Tailor a Dress You Already Own
Do you have a dress in your closet that could work with a few adjustments?
A skilled tailor can update or modify an existing dress to fit the occasion, saving you money and giving new life to something you already own.
Whether it’s changing the hemline, adding some embellishments, or adjusting the fit, a little tailoring can go a long way.
9. Use Our Free Style Checklist
Don’t forget to download our free style checklist to ensure you’ve thought of everything.
This checklist includes all the fashion essentials you’ll need for every wedding event, from shoes and jewellery to undergarments and outerwear.
Staying organized with this list will help you avoid last-minute purchases and keep your budget on track.
Look Fabulous Without the Financial Stress
Finding the perfect mother of the bride or groom dress doesn’t have to be an expensive or stressful process.
With these tips—setting a budget, shopping smart, considering resale value, creating a capsule wardrobe, exploring custom-made options, shopping off-season, borrowing accessories, and even tailoring a dress you already own—you can look and feel amazing on your child’s big day without overspending.
Armed with our budget-friendly tips and style checklist, you’re well on your way to finding the perfect outfit that makes you feel confident and beautiful.
More blogs you will love!
- Budgeting for Your Mother of the Bride/Groom Dress: How to Look Fabulous Without Breaking the Bank
- Mother of the bride (& groom) hairstyle ideas
- Mother’s acessories – what do you need to complete the look
- Mother of the bride (and groom) shoe guide
- Mother of the bride (& groom) For over 50 & 60
- Mother of the Bride Getting Ready Outfits and Ideas
- Slimming Mother of the Bride Dresses, Expert Advice on How to Hide that Belly Fat
- Unique Mother of the Bride or Groom Outfits, No Frumpy Mother Dresses Here!
- the hottest summer mother of the bride and groom dresses and outfits
