THE 6 FACTORS THAT DETERMINE THE PRICE OF YOUR WEDDING DRESS

As we all know, a wedding dress is often the most expensive garment a bride will ever purchase. There are many reasons behind the high cost of wedding dresses, one of which is the significant marketing expense per client. Unlike other businesses, bridal wear businesses don’t have repeat customers, and it's not uncommon to spend several hundred pounds on marketing to secure a single sale. When it comes to the price differences between wedding dresses, five main factors play a crucial role.

Materials

When it comes to wedding dresses, the choice of fabric plays a significant role in determining the price. As with most things, some fabrics are more affordable, while others are more expensive. The cost primarily depends on the material that the fabric is made from. Natural materials like silk and sustainable options such as Tencel are generally more expensive than synthetic materials like polyester. For instance, polyester satin can cost as little as £3 per metre, whereas silk satin can be priced at £45 per metre. The difference in quality is substantial—silk satin offers a luxurious feel and exceptional breathability and prevents sweating, unlike polyester satin. The same applies to other natural materials such as linen and bamboo.

Design and structure

The complexity of the design and structure significantly impacts the price of a wedding dress. Intricate designs and detailed construction require more time and skill, which naturally increases the cost. For example, a simple silk satin slip dress is often less expensive than a silk satin gown featuring draping, beading, and boning. These added elements demand more labour and expertise, making such dresses pricier.

Finishings

The way a wedding dress is finished also plays a key role in its price. Some finishes are quicker and easier to produce, so manufacturers and brands may opt for these to keep the cost of a wedding dress down. However, these simpler finishes may not look as refined as more time-consuming alternatives. For example, consider the side seam of a wedding dress skirt. A basic finish might involve a machine that simultaneously stitches and overlocks the seam to prevent fraying—an efficient and faster method. In contrast, a French seam, which neatly encloses the raw edges within the seam, creates a polished and elegant look but requires more time and effort to complete. As a result, opting for a French seam can increase the price of the dress.

Location of the production

The location of production is a major factor in determining the price of a wedding dress. For instance, wedding dresses made in the Far East are generally less expensive than those handcrafted in London. This price difference is largely due to variations in overhead and labour costs between different countries or even regions within the same country. Dresses made in locations with higher wages and operating expenses, like London, naturally come with a higher price tag.

The brand name

Regardless of other factors, the brand name significantly influences the price of a wedding dress. Well-known brands often command higher prices, as you're not only paying for the materials and craftsmanship but also for the brand's reputation, prestige, and reliability. For example, purchasing a Vivienne Westwood wedding dress means you're also investing in the iconic status of the brand. In contrast, a dress from a smaller, lesser-known brand could be made from the same high-quality materials, feature equally intricate construction, and even be handcrafted in the UK, yet it would likely come at a much lower price point due to the absence of the brand's renown.

Alterations

Finally, alterations to ensure your dress fits perfectly will add to the overall cost of your wedding dress. Almost every bride needs alterations, and the price of alterations depends on the complexity of your gown’s design and, of course, the number of alterations needed. When selecting an alterations specialist, it’s important not to base your decision solely on cost. Unfortunately, we’ve seen too many horror stories of brides choosing the lowest quote, only to be disappointed by unskilled work. Alterations specialists are highly skilled professionals, and their expertise is worth every penny.

The cost of your wedding dress is influenced by specific factors, and each of these elements directly affects the price, representing the time, skill, and resources required to create your dress. By considering these details, we hope you can choose a dress that fits both your budget and the bridal look you are envisioning for yourself. Finding the perfect wedding dress requires effort, as it is more than just an outfit—it’s a meaningful symbol of your journey and a lasting reminder of your special day. Whether you choose to pass your wedding dress on and only cherish it on your wedding pictures or repurpose and wear it over and over again, it will hold sentimental value for years to come.

- Miina -

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Image credits

Photography: Alina Raducea

Hair and makeup: Jo Elizabeth Weddings

Model: Collette India Lucy