34 Best Online Shops To Buy An Affordable Wedding Dress (Updated 2020)
Who said you had to spend a fortune on a wedding dress?
I for one don’t believe it. Granted, I may be a little biased, as I took the risk of ordering my ultra affordable wedding gown on eBay. Affordable doesn’t mean cheap or tacky. It means you get a quality bridal gown at a price point that fits your budget.
If the gowns on our list of wedding dresses under $1000 haven’t quite matched up to your dream dress, don’t worry. There are many top online shops that offer amazing wedding gowns for different budgets.
Note: Prices and policies listed below are an indication only. While we try to keep this article updated, always check with the online shop to confirm the latest information.
- 1) Etsy
- 2) David’s Bridal
- 3) BHLDN Wedding Gowns
- 4) Floravere
- 5) TJ MAXX
- 6) Tradsey
- 7) Coco Melody
- 8) Azazie
- 9) Needle & Thread
- 10) Rent the Runway
- 11) Net-A-Porter
- 12) Asos
- 13) 6pm
- 14) Zappos
- 15) Shop Bop
- 16) Nordstrom
- 17) Macy’s
- 18) Saks Fifth Avenue
- 19) House of Brides
- 20) Whistles
- 21) Moda Operandi
- 22) Dorothy Perkins
- 23) Le Chateau
- 24) Reformation
- 25) Kiyonna
- 26) Torrid
- 27) Nearly Newlyweds
- 28) Anomalie
- 29) Lulu’s
- 30) Grace Loves Lace
- 31) Fame and Partners
- 32) Self Portrait
- 33) Kite & Butterfly
- 34) Lace & Liberty
Best Online Wedding Dress Shops
Let’s take a look at our guide to the best places to buy a wedding dress, starting with…
1) Etsy
One of our all time favorite and trusted online wedding dress sites!
If Etsy has been your go-to for your other wedding decor inspiration, why not search for the right wedding gown as well?
There are so many talented designers who offer bespoke dresses made to your exact specification.
Two etsy shops in particular that get raving reviews and have beautiful designs are:
If you just can’t find what you are dreaming of online or in person, look to Etsy to get it handmade.
Returns: Be sure to check individual sellers’ reviews as well as return policy before buying.
Budget: Varies
2) David’s Bridal
David’s Bridal is a one-stop destination for everything you could possibly need for your big day – your dress or even your mom’s dress!
They currently offer over 375 wedding dresses under $1000, including designers like White by Vera Wang, Wonder by Jenny Packham, and Nicole Miller just to name a few.
Lots of selection and styles that you could possibly wish for — petite, plus size, and tall ranges for those of you who struggle finding the perfect lengths and fits!
Returns: DB stores are located all over North America. However, if you would prefer to do your shopping online and try your gown on in the comfort of your own home, they also offer a 14 day return policy.
Budget: Prices range from $79-$1898
3) BHLDN Wedding Gowns
BHLDN is one of the hottest destinations for bridal gowns and guest outfits. Prices start at around the $300 and go up to $3000, but you have plenty to choose from in the under $1000 range.
They actually have a designated category for designer wedding dresses under $1000. Currently, 77 gowns can be found in this catagory, with labels like Tadashi Shoji, Watters, and Badgley Mischka.
BHLDN truly offers brides the ability to find a beautiful dress without going over budget.
With a focus on weddings, they search the world for emerging designers and exclusive styles with superior craftsmanship.
The aesthetic of BHLDN is dreamy and feminine, with hints of ivory and light rose colored gowns, with intricate lace detailing for the majority of them.
Returns: When you order online there is a 30 days return policy, along with reasonable shipping rates.
Budget: Prices range from $300-$3000
4) Floravere
Floravere is all about eliminating appointments and salespeople, giving you the ability to try your dress on in the comfort of your home. Heck, throw a party if you want to!
We absolutely love this model. Simply try on a dress at home using their bride box — free with any purchase, or $25 per gown.
Molly Kang created Floravere to give brides the experience she never had: order a luxury gown that is also customizable (think color changes, additional sleeve or bows).
They source the finest fabrics and materials, and each gown is designed by top artisans. After customizing your own gown through their website, it is made-to-order in 10-15 weeks.
Returns: As gowns are custom-made to order, gowns cannot be returned after purchase. But with the added bonus of having tried on your sample gown, there really should be no need to return.
Budget: Prices range from $750 to $2350
5) TJ MAXX
When I got married in a summertime outdoor wedding, I knew that I wanted a second dress. One that was lighter and more airy than my first gown, which was a ball gown.
I ended up finding my second last minute at a store in Washington called Ross Dress for Less. It was the only one and was in my size. Talk about meant to be.
TJ Maxx is very similar to Ross Dress for Less, and have a wedding section online too. Not a huge selection, but enough that someone looking for a gem dress find might just get lucky.
Designers like Badgley Michska, Adrianna Papell, Donna Morgan, Jenny Yoo make an appearance on this site with prices range from $29.99-599.
Returns: They offer an easy 40 days return policy from the date you purchase online.
Budget: $29.99-$599
6) Tradsey
Champagne taste on a beer budget? Tradsey may be just the online bridal gown shop for you.
It’s a site for brides to sell anything from their existing closet. You can find all sorts of goodies that are in good condition, from brands like Zara to Louis Vuitton. Best of all, Tradsey have an entire wedding section. Items like sample wedding dresses, accessories, bridal jewelry, shoes, groomwear and miscellaneous wedding items.
See a designer dress in the store that fits like a glove, but isn’t sensible for your budget? Search on Tradsey and you just might find your dream dress.
Returns: You have 4 days to notify them for a return after delivery, and you can return your item for any reason for a Tradesy Site Credit.
Budget: Varies – Click here to sign up and get $20.00 off your first $50.00 purchase!
7) Coco Melody
Founded in 1999, CocoMelody is a unique online concept where brides can easily find both ready-to-wear and haute couture options.
The online bridal store employs over 100 experienced seamstresses and sample makers, as well as professional in house fashion designers who can help you with you custom options.
Prices range from $99-2250 and they have many dress shapes and fabric. If you are looking for accessories, bridal party, or cocktail party dresses, they have those as well.
Returns: Unless a custom order (final sale), you have 14 days to initiate your return after receiving it and they will be happy to help.
Budget: $99-$2250
8) Azazie
Ever dreamt of having your own high quality bridal gown made to order?
Try a company called Azazie. Each of their gowns are cut and sewn to order just for you the minute you place your order, no matter if it is a standard size or custom-sized gown.
They offer many different styled dresses and have many different color options. If you are unsure about colors, fabric or fit, they also offer swatch samples and sample try-ons.
They also offer bridesmaids and mother-of-the-bride dresses.
Returns: Mostly custom items, it is understandable that these pieces would be final sale. Non-custom pieces must be returned within 10 days of delivery to you.
Budget: $199-$799
9) Needle & Thread
Needle & Thread are actually stocked at BHLDN, but you can find plenty more wedding dresses on their e-shop.
The British brand are renowned for gorgeous embellishments like lace and sequins and voluminous tulle skirts.
Their gowns are a very distinct style and are certainly for the bride looking to achieve a contemporary look.
Returns: A 28 day return policy means that even though their sleeved gowns are just over the $1000 mark, you can still find plenty of treasures for you big day at under that price point.
Budget: $240-$2022
10) Rent the Runway
The rental model in our consumer-based economy is alive and well. And, thanks to a pair of enterprising young woman, you can rent wedding gowns as well!
The idea for Rent the Runway came to the two founders (Jenny & Jenny) in 2009 when they thought, “wouldn’t it be so much smarter if we could rent designer items rather than purchase them?”
Yes, it certainly would.
Now you have the opportunity to save a bit of cash and still wear a designer gown on your big day, just like this white sequin gown from Bagdley Mischka.
Getting a dress is easy for one-time rentals. Simply pick your look and size, schedule a delivery date to receive the dress, and then send it back when your rental period is up.
Although there are not a huge amount of wedding gowns to choose from (at last update), you may just see “the one” and snag a real bargain.
Returns: Because RenttheRunway is a rental based model, returns are easy! When your rental period is up, place items back in the garment bag they came in. Then send it back using the prepaid shipping label.
Budget: $49-$200
11) Net-A-Porter
Net A Porter is one of our favorite sites for luxury purchases, but did you know they also sell bridal?
Despite being a luxury destination, and having dresses that obviously exceed the $1000 mark, there are also dresses that fall under that price point.
For example, this gorgeous tiered embellished tulle and point d’esprit gown from Needle & Thread.
There isn’t a ton of options under the $1000 mark. If you are looking for something a little different that could pass as bridal, they do carry beautiful maxi skirts, chiffon tops, cropped jackets, embellished capes, and classy cropped wide legged pants.
Returns: They offer a 28 days return policy from the date you receive your order.
Budget: $161-$9740
12) Asos
Asos have started selling bridal wear and we can’t be any more excited! They have a perfect price range for a bride on a budget, and their dresses are quality made (especially when you look at the prices — all of their dresses are way under $1000).
Everything from mermaid to boho dresses, and styles for petite or curvy brides. No matter what your personal tastes, you are bound to find a favorite on Asos.
Returns: They offer a 28 day return policy. Don’t forget to check out their fab collection of beautiful hair and jewelry accessories too.
Budget: $99-$473
13) 6pm
6pm have dresses priced from $15 to $2000! They have a beautiful selection for the bride-to-be, with deliciously soft, silky fabrics and elegant movement.
6pm have favorite bridal shades too – from ivory to light rose pink.
Brands like Nicole Miller, Badgley Mischka, Adrianna Papell, Calvin Klein, Donna Morgan means you are bound to find the dress for your special day!
Returns: 6pm.com are happy to accept a return within 30 days of the date of purchase.
Budget: $15-$2000
14) Zappos
Zappos offers a smaller collection of dresses with designers like Nicole Miller, Adrianna Papell and Unique Vintage.
Zappos have all sorts of styles available, but they do seem to have a larger selection of knee length dresses. So, if you are a bride looking for a shorter vintage style dress, you may find a keeper over on Zappos.
Returns: A huge bonus with Zappos is that they offer free shipping and a cushy 365 day return policy!
Budget: $60-$1900
15) Shop Bop
Shop Bop doesn’t have a designated section for under $1000 gowns, but it looks like you could scoop a real bargain if you go shopping online at the right time.
Featured designers (e.g., Monique Lhuillier, Badgley Mischka, Theia and Zac Posen) offer all different styled gowns such as a-line, ball gown, sheath, short, trumpet / mermaid.
A good assortment of styles!
Returns: They offer free shipping and a 30 day return policy.
Budget: $164-$1900
16) Nordstrom
We know Nordstrom for stylish, luxurious pieces, but did you know they also do bridal?
Nordstrom now offers in-store Wedding Suites where you can make an appointment with one of their wedding stylists who will help you find your perfect gown.
Of course, if you can’t drop by for an in person visit, you can always order from their online wedding collection.
Their wedding dress price ranges vary. They currently have 38 gorgeous wedding dresses in A-line, ballgown, fit & flare, mermaid and sheath by designers like PRONOVIAS, Topshop, After Six and Tadashi Shoji all under $1000.
Returns: If you are an indecisive bride, you will love their extremely fair no time limit return policy. Find that perfect bridal gown and don’t feel rushed while you do it.
Budget: $150-$5000+
17) Macy’s
Macys is proof that you don’t have to compromise quality when buying an affordable wedding dress. They provide for all bridal styles – shorter dresses for a bride looking for something a little more unusual, as well as more traditional styles like mermaid and halterneck gowns.
Currently, it seems that they are only stocking Adrianna Papell gowns. Fine by us because her designs are exquisite!
Take this Adrianna Papell soutache tiered tulle gown (pictured), we sure get a Jenny Peckham vibe for a fraction of the price.
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Returns: With 180 day return policy, you won’t be in a rush to order many gowns. Take your time and try them on at home to find that perfect one!
Budget: $179-$549
18) Saks Fifth Avenue
More and more brides are opting for designer gowns for their big day — gowns that are fresh, modern and perfect for the forever stylish bride.
Saks Fifth have big name bridal labels such as Self-Portrait – renowned for their guipure lace dresses – along with a more vintage vibe from designer Alice + Olivia.
Either way, the fashionista bride can find her favorite amongst the selection at Saks Fifth Avenue.
Returns: If you are not happy, you have up to 30 days after purchase to exchange, replace, or get a credit.
Budget: $162-$4990
19) House of Brides
You may or may not have heard of House of Brides, but they are definitely worth taking a look at. They are mainly an online store, with 5 brick and mortar locations in Illinois. They’ve been in business for 88 years, which is pretty amazing.
Carrying gowns at many price points, they currently have over 1445 dresses that are under $1000. With over 140 designer labels being offered, you are bound to find something special.
A business model that has no sales staff and alterations department means they are able to pass on 80% savings off retail prices. The only downside is that all sales are final and cannot be cancelled once they have been purchased.
House of Brides have the dreamiest wedding dress details – ruffles, lace, embroidery, embellishments – you name it they have it!
Returns: All sales are final for special order merchandise. All other orders, you have 5 days after receiving your purchase to alert them that you would like to return the item and be issued an online credit.
Budget: $129-$4500
20) Whistles
Whistles is a contemporary fashion brand, based in London UK. Wearable yet distinct apparel with a small wedding collection.
Beautiful wedding gown designs for a bohemian or vintage bride at heart. And, with prices ranging between $999-$1399, you can find an elegant gown that doesn’t break the bank.
Returns: Items can be returned within 14 days of receipt.
Budget: $999-$1399
21) Moda Operandi
Are you a bride looking for a gown from next-season’s looks straight from the runway?
Moda Operandi is an online retailer who invites clients to pre order runway worthy gowns. For those who can’t wait, they offer an expertly curated in-season boutique.
Returns: They accept timely returns of unused, unworn, unwashed, unaltered and undamaged items within 15 days from the date you received your order.
Budget: $975-$17,450
Dorothy Perkins is UK-based women’s fashion retailer and trusted brand that’s been in business for over 100 years. They recently debuted a bridal collection (available to US customers too) that features everything from flowing full skirts to fishtails and vintage-inspired styles.
While their selection isn’t huge (23 dresses), their ultra-reasonable prices paired with luxurious fabrics and beautiful detailing are swoon-worthy. I’m looking forward to seeing more designs added to this new line of bridal wear!
Returns: US customers can make a return within 14 days of receipt of your dress, but only by mail and the cost of postage is on you. UK customers can return within 28 days by post or in one of +400 stores in the country.
Budget: $99 – $238
Truth be told, when I think of Le Chateau I immediately conjure up images of prom dresses and bridesmaid dresses (and stylish shoes, of course!).
Well, it turns out this Canadian retailer also has an exclusive online wedding boutique catering to brides across Canada and the United States!
Featuring an extensive line of gorgeous dresses. Le Chateau carries over its tradition of smart, accessible styles from its well-known evening wear line to its bridalware. I especially love that there are dresses to suit a range of budgets, as well as a number of styles in plus sizes. They’ve thought of everyone when curating this collection.
Returns:Within 15 days of the purchase date, you can return your item(s) by mail for a full refund to the original method of payment with shipping fees deducted.
Budget: $198 – $695
24) Reformation
Reformation is a boutique clothing shop with a commitment to sustainability and celebrating the feminine figure. While their selection of bridal gowns is limited, I love their dedication to ensuring the perfect fit and the array of fresh designs they offer.
With dresses ranging from $125 to +$350, Reformation is a great option for the eco-friendly and stylish bride on a budget.
Returns: Full refund within 21 days of shipping date for items in new condition with original tags attached. Return shipping is free for returns within the U.S. and for a $20 US fee from other countries.
Budget: $125 – $370
25) Kiyonna
If you’re looking for a wedding dress that is gorgeous, affordable, AND made with plus size brides in mind, check out Kiyonna.
With over twenty years of experience serving plus-sized women from its online storefront, this pioneering shop knows what its customers want.
A selection of full-length, midi and knee-length dresses, and a selection of fabrics and styles to choose means there’s a good chance you’ll find a gown to suit your personal style.
Returns: Free return label on Continental US orders of $100 or more before any applicable tax. Available only for orders placed directly on Kiyonna and within 15 days of purchase for bridal items.
Budget: $80 – $250
26) Torrid
Online exclusive wedding dress shop with sizes ranging from 10 to 30, Torrid caters to brides of every size and shape. Although their selection of gowns is limited, they offer a variety of styles including midi, hi lo, and mermaid dresses. In addition, they also offer more traditional gowns in chiffon, lace, and other luxe fabrics.
I love the features of Torrid’s wedding shop. Importantly, they have a very useful video to guide you through finding your correct size. Their wedding collection includes bridesmaid dresses, wedding guest attire, and undergarments to keep you supported on your big day!
Returns: Full refund less a $6 shipping return fee if returned within 60 days of purchase. Buyer responsible for return shipping costs.
Budget: $100 – $150
27) Nearly Newlyweds
Dream of wearing a designer dress, but can’t bear or afford to pay the full price tag?
Nearly Newlyweds is a great alternative. This online shop features thousands of pre-owned wedding gowns from a large array of designers.
Whether you’re searching for a specific style of dress or have your heart set on a Vera Wang, you’ll find a plethora of options in various sizes. And if you’re like me, you’ll fall in love with how much money you’re saving.
The site makes it super easy to figure this out by indicating the percentage discount off the original price of each dress.
Not sure about buying a second-hand dress? First, be assured that the folks at Nearly Newlyweds verify every wedding dress and item sold for condition and authenticity. If you’re still not sold on a pre-loved dress, the site also sells new and sample gowns at a discount.
Returns: 5-day return policy on all items. You’ll receive a full refund of the sale price less the applicable return fees. Return fees are $100 for wedding gowns.
Budget: $100 – $5,000+
28) Anomalie
Can you envision your dream wedding dress?
Maybe you don’t know exactly what it looks like, but you know it HAS to be unique to you. If you can’t afford your own in-person dressmaker, Anomalie is the next best bet.
Co-founded by a budget bride (and Harvard graduate to boot), this online store offers custom-made dresses for under $1200.
The easy 3-phase creation process includes an initial consultation to get the ball rolling, and then a design consultation. This is where the fun and creativity begins!
Next you’ll receive a custom sketch of your dream dress, fabric samples and even measuring tape to ensure the final product fits you to a tee. After you’ve signed off on the final design, it’s created by professionals and posted to you!
Returns: During the design process, you can cancel your order and receive a refund minus a 20% design deposit. If your dress does not meet your expectations once delivered, you must contact Anomalie within 10 days to initialize the return/refund process.
Budget: $1,000 – $2,000
29) Lulu’s
If you’re searching for a casual-yet-stylin’ white wedding dress, you’ll want to check out Lulu’s online bridal shop.
Showcasing over 70 different styles in a range of sizes from XS to 3X (though XL styles are limited), you’ll find everything from romantic dresses to retro glam, beach, boho, modern and more.
I love that Lulu’s owns the fact that their line of bridal dresses is on the casual side, but as they note: “Casual” is a relative term. They also provide some tips on shopping for a casual wedding dress and how to accessorize for maximum effect.
Returns: In order to qualify for free return shipping in the US, your return package must be postmarked within the first 10 days of receiving your order. Returns postmarked within 30 days of the delivery date are accepted.
Budget: $30 – $400
30) Grace Loves Lace
All Grace Loves Lace dresses are handmade in the company’s Australian studio by an in-house team of seamstresses. While it found its beginnings in the Land Down Under, GLL ships its dresses worldwide and also has a number of studios in the US and Australia, and one in the UK.
In keeping with their name, a large number of GLL’s dresses celebrate the intricate beauty of lace fabrics. There are also several gorgeous silk gowns on offer. The company provides ready-to-wear and made-to-order dress options.
While their dresses aren’t priced for the uber-budget bride, there are several stunning designs within the $1,000 to $2,000 range.
Returns: Policy not specified.
Budget: $900 – $3,000+
31) Fame and Partners
Get a customized wedding dress at an extremely affordable price, while supporting a near zero-waste manufacturing method. That’s the inspiration behind Fame & Partners’ online wedding shop, where every dress is made to order and over-production is a thing of the past.
While their base line of wedding dress styles is somewhat limited, the number of customizable options for each is mighty impressive. For example, not only can you choose from an array of colors (and sometimes fabrics), you can also customize the width of the straps, the length of the skirt, and more.
My favorite customization is definitely the option for side pockets — perfect for storing your wedding day vows and breath mints!
Returns: If you are unhappy with the fit of your garment, F&P will cover the cost of alterations up to $50. Returns must be made within 30 days of delivery and a zero waste fee of $35 per item) will be deducted from the refund.
Budget: $199 – $399
32) Self Portrait
The UK-based company Self Portrait offers a selection of contemporary wedding dresses, suited to the modern bride in search of an alternative to traditional gowns. If you’re not sure whether that describes you and your dress search, simply take a browse through their designs.
Ranging in sizes from 4 – 14, Self Portrait’s wedding dresses tend towards the unique and unusual, often with a splash of lace. While they are based in the UK, Self Portrait offers complimentary shipping on all international orders over 350 GBP (approx $450 USD).
Returns: Policy not specified.
Budget: $750 – $1,000
33) Kite & Butterfly
Boho brides on a budget rejoice! Kite and Butterfly was created with YOU in mind.
Even if you don’t think boho is your style, I highly recommend you peruse their wedding dress collection. You may just find yourself swooning at designs that incorporate French crochet laces and hand-dyed silk.
While the dress line ranges in sizes from XS to XL, their dreamy dresses are all handmade in California, so you can ensure yours is made to fit. Find your ray of Cali sunshine and get ready to rock that boho look as you walk down the aisle in a Kite & Butterfly design!
Returns: All dresses are non-refundable/exchangeable.
Budget: $850 – $2,000+
34) Lace & Liberty
Lace & Liberty is another fantastic made-to-measure wedding dress shop catering to brides of all sizes.
This small and relatively new company is based out of San Francisco and offers a selection of gowns and wedding separates. While their full wedding dress line is stunning, their top and skirt separates provide the opportunity to create a unique two-piece dress that’s all yours.
You can also customize their dresses in a variety of ways, including adding sleeves, changing the neckline, adding color to lining or skirt, and more.
Although they don’t do returns/refund (unless your top hasn’t been made to your specified measurements for some reason), the company offers an innovative Try On At Home service at a very reasonable price ($40). You’ll receive a box in the mail with 2 tops and 1 skirt you want to try on, or a full dress, plus clips and accessories.
I love the series of videos Lace & Liberty has posted on their site to guide brides through the measuring process and explain the different styles of skirts available. They’re short and helpful – perfect for a busy bride!
Returns: Not available.
Budget: $299 – $1750+
It will take you a bit of time to search for that ‘one dress’ that makes it into your online shopping cart! Hopefully we’ve made the task a little bit easier with this roundup of trusted wedding dress stores to choose from. All the best on your dress hunt and your big day!
