What drives the price of a wedding dress?

Short answer

The main price drivers are the fabric, the amount of handwork, the designer's reputation, and where you buy it. Lace, silk, beading and corsetry all add cost. A simpler dress in a less expensive fabric will always cost less than a heavily embellished one.

Fabric is the biggest factor. Silk, hand-stitched lace, and delicate tulle cost far more than polyester or cotton blends. The amount of fabric also matters: a full ball gown uses many more metres than a slim slip dress. Embroidery, beading, sequins and appliqué are labour intensive, and hand-finishing can take many hours, which pushes the price up.

Designer labels and bridal boutiques add their own costs for design, marketing and fitting services. A made-to-measure dress will cost more than off-the-peg, and alterations are usually extra. You also pay for the experience: the shop, the consultant, and the multiple fittings. Buying second-hand, sample sale, or from a small independent maker can reduce costs without reducing quality.

Think about what you value. If you love a simple silhouette, you can save on embellishment. If you want a showstopper, be prepared to pay for the workmanship. Always ask what is included in the price, such as alterations, steaming, or a bustle. And remember, you can change the look with accessories rather than spending more on the dress itself.