The dress is one of the most important items for brides and it’s understandable that you want to make sure your wedding gown is exactly what you envision. Creating a custom gown can be expensive but it’s also a great way to ensure your dream gown fits your body and style. There are many factors that can impact the cost of a custom made dress, from the materials to the design and alterations.
One of the biggest impacts on your final cost will be the fabrics you choose, with high quality materials and a higher level of detailing adding to your overall costs. Fabrics such as silk, hand-embroidered lace and embellishments like beads and crystals will all increase your dress price tag. Choosing a more simple silhouette and limiting the amount of embellishments can help keep your wedding dress cost down.
If you are working with a designer, their reputation and experience will also have an impact on your final wedding dress cost. Luxury designers will tend to charge more, as their dresses are usually crafted using higher-end materials.
Your choice of style and length will also impact your wedding dress cost. A fuller skirt requires more material than a sheath or an off the shoulder style and long gowns need longer trains than short ones. The fabric you choose will also have an impact on your total cost, with silk and lace fabrics being more expensive than synthetic or blended materials.
For those looking to save on their custom made wedding dresses cost, a good place to start is with the cutting of your gown. Many bridal salons offer a custom dress cutting service which can significantly reduce your cost and save on the designer fees.
The other element that will impact your final wedding dress cost will be the design of your gown. For example, a beaded and embroidered dress will require more work to construct than a simpler design with just beading or embroidery.
Other elements that can influence your dress cost include whether you are getting a bespoke (designed by an independent seamstress) or made to order gown. Bespoke gowns have a high markup as they are created by an individual and will vary in lead times, from 2 months to 8 months depending on the designer’s schedule.
Alterations will also have a significant impact on your wedding dress cost, ranging from $150 to $800+. It’s best to find a reputable tailor who specializes in wedding dress alterations and book early to avoid delays on your big day. Keep in mind that you will likely need a few rounds of alterations to get your dress to the perfect fit, regardless of how much it costs. Having a flexible budget and a good relationship with your seamstress is key to staying on track. Do your research and keep an eye out for deals and specials to keep the overall cost of your custom made wedding dress as low as possible.