weddings

Just 10 gorgeous wedding dresses you can actually afford.

Idk about you but I'm not looking to spend $10k on a wedding dress.

Mostly because I'm not engaged, so that would be kind of a wild shopping decision, but also because as much I believe in looking and feeling your gosh-darn best on this day of days, there are simply other things I'd rather put that moolah towards. 

Like a honeymoon.

Or a house. (Jokes! Who can afford to even dream of home ownership rn?! Lol. *Weeps into a bowl of home-brand cereal.*)

Watch: Sofia Richie's glam bridal shower. Post continues below.


Video via Instagram/sofiarichiegrainge

No shade to anyone spending up big on their wedding-day look – you do you!

But for anyone who’s staring less-than-lovingly into the eyes of the cost-of-living crisis currently happening all around us while on the hunt for the perfect wedding dress/suit/separates/etc – or just those who don’t feel like splashing bucket loads of cash on their wedding-day threads – this one’s for you.

Ten beautiful looks, all guaranteed wedding-worthy, with not a one costing more than $650 (and plenty coming in closer to half that). You're welcome.

1. Aje Florence Pearl Trim Mini Dress, $545.

Image: Aje.

ADVERTISEMENT

There is nothing not to love about this sweet mini. The teensy pearls? Yes. The ruffles? Yes, please. Those puffy structured sleeves? Ooft, they're what dreams are made of, and whether you're a mini-dress kinda bride or looking for your perfect dance-able reception dress, this one would look great in your cart (and even better in your wedding-day pics, wink wink).

2. Moira Hughes – The White Label The Emma Cami, $180, and The Ariana Pants, $320

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Wedding-day pants. With pockets. If you're not already sold by that alone, think of the comfort – not to mention the re-wearability factor, which, why the heck not? Who says your W-day look MUST only be worn once? This stunning set is giving Hamptons chic and I'm all about it.

3. Rebecca Vallance Madeline Strapless Mini, $649.

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

That. Bow. Need I say more? No, but I will. It's a fab pick either for the main event or dress no. two of the evening. That floor-length bow says 'classic wedding' but the mini-length skirt says party all night with your new husband/wifey.

4. MOS The Label Ethereal Sleeved Midi Dress, $329.95

Image: The Iconic.

ADVERTISEMENT

Romantic, ethereal, draped sleeves, buttery-soft satin – and you can't see it here, but this gorg gown has some super-intricate back detailing that absolutely *makes* this dress. It's giving luxe, low-key and what's not to love about that?

5. Showpo Stephanie Mini Dress, $149.95.

Image: Showpo.

ADVERTISEMENT

The architecture of this sweet structured mini is reminiscent of Sofia Richie's reception/party 'fit and that, friends, is reason enough to put on your list of possible 'yes'es. The corseted bodice and floral appliqué say tradish times; the fit-and-flare skirt says dance on the tabletops.

6. DISSH Aisle White Linen Sleeve Midi Dress, $299.99.

Image: DISSH.

ADVERTISEMENT

Oof, that open back. And those delicate fabric-covered button detailing. And the glam-as-heck high neck. And the flared mermaid skirt and, okay, this wedding gown is just heaven from head to toe, and at that price how could you not

7. Bec + Bridge Be Mine Square Neck Dress, $280

Image: Bec + Bridge. 

The great thing about a simple form-fitting dress like this one? It's *guaranteed* timeless. Transcending trends, this is a wedding dress you'll never look back on and think 'why?' (as we imagined pretty much everyone who got married in the '80s does on the reg).

ADVERTISEMENT

8. Y.A.S Yasebru LS Blazer Dress, $309.95.

Image: The Iconic.

Blazers are all-time and blazer dresses are having a never-ending moment. This fun mini is giving courthouse ceremony-slash-elopement vibes in the very best way.

9. Aje Jessica Frill Midi Dress, $595.

Image: Aje.

ADVERTISEMENT

Cottage-core stepped up its game here, and clearly I have a thing for puff sleeves because wouldja just take a look at those babies? If you think bigger is definitely is better in the sleeve department, this fun, flirty, feminine gown is a goer.

10. DISSH Aisle White Ramie Backless Top, $119.99, and Linen Flare Pant, $169.99.

Image: DISSH.

ADVERTISEMENT

The simplicity of this top-and-pants combo is chic as heck – not to mention you could easily wear either of these pieces again, which is a total turn-on if you're a cost-per-wear girlie like me. (Confession: This set is currently hanging out in my cart waiting to be purchased because I've decided I don't need a ring on my finger to look this cute.) It's giving classic and casual. Plus, linen? Can't go past it.

Feature image: Aje; DISSH; The Iconic.

Alix Nicholson is Mamamia's Managing Editor. Want to catch more of her adventures in travel, beauty and lifestyle? Head on over to her Instagram.

Love all-things beauty? Take this short survey now to go in the running to win a $50 gift voucher!

TAKE SURVEY ➤