As you plan your wedding, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is choosing your wedding dress. With so many options available, it's important to set a budget and understand the factors that contribute to the cost of a dress. Whether you're shopping at a boutique or a big box bridal store like David's Bridal, we're here to help you make informed decisions and get the most for your money. In this article, we'll explore what goes into the cost of a wedding dress, provide practical advice for setting a realistic budget, and share tips for finding the perfect dress, whether you're shopping at a local boutique or a national chain.
Wedding Dress Cost Across the Industry
As per "The Knot," the average expense of a wedding dress in 2022 was recorded at $1,900. The cost of wedding dresses has undergone substantial fluctuations over the years, mainly attributed to inflation and tariffs imposed on imported goods. If you are a passionate follower of the TV show "Say Yes to the Dress," you may have noticed the significant contrast in the seemingly unlimited budgets of the brides featured on the show. However, it is worth noting that this is often exaggerated for the sake of television.
It is also worth mentioning that the average cost of a wedding dress can vary significantly based on the geographical location. For instance, residing in New York City would incur substantially higher costs compared to purchasing a wedding dress in the Midwest. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that Utah has become a sought-after destination for brides-to-be to peruse their wedding dress options, owing to the comparatively reasonable prices as opposed to larger metropolitan cities.
Wedding Dress Average Cost in Utah
At Fantasy Bridal, our exquisite collection of wedding dresses spans a price range from $600 to $4500 on average. While we do offer select options above and below this range, they are few and far between. It is worth noting that most of our cherished brides in Utah tend to invest between $1300 and $2500 for their dream wedding gown, exclusive of accessories and alterations. However, we acknowledge that some bridal salons in the region may carry higher-end couture designs, which can significantly elevate the price point.
Costs to Consider
When purchasing your wedding dress, it is important to take into account additional costs such as accessories, tax, and alterations. Accessories, though optional, can play a crucial role in completing your overall look, be it a veil, headpiece, or earrings, and allow you to add your personal touch to your wedding day ensemble. While tax may seem like a small expense, it can accumulate depending on the final price of your dress. It is essential to note that our bridal dresses are not considered "Ready-to-wear" and require alterations to ensure a perfect fit. The most common alterations needed are hemming, bustling, and adjusting the shoulders. Each individual may require different alterations, and it is advisable to consider this in your wedding dress budget.