Planning a wedding already stretches most budgets thin—asking your closest friends to spend $200+ on a dress they’ll wear once feels like adding insult to injury. The reality is that beautiful, well-made bridesmaid dresses exist at every price point, and knowing where to look makes all the difference.
This guide covers everything from the best fabrics and silhouettes to smart shopping strategies, helping you outfit your entire bridal party for under $150 per dress without sacrificing style or quality.
Quick guide to budget bridesmaid dress essentials
Budget bridesmaid dresses typically fall between $50 and $150, with plenty of stylish options available under $100 from online retailers like Azazie, Birdy Grey, and Missacc. The good news? Affordable doesn’t mean sacrificing style—you’ll find the same popular fabrics, colors, and silhouettes at these price points that you’d see at higher-end boutiques.
- Price sweet spot: $80-$130 delivers the best balance of quality and selection
- Go-to fabrics: Chiffon, satin, jersey, and tulle
- Most versatile silhouettes: A-line and fit-and-flare styles
- Shopping smart: Order swatches first, double-check size charts, and build in time for shipping
- Best value: Online retailers consistently beat brick-and-mortar prices
How much do bridesmaid dresses actually cost
If you’ve only shopped at traditional bridal boutiques, you might think bridesmaid dresses start around $200. That’s not the full picture. Online shopping has completely changed what’s possible, and you can now find well-made, on-trend styles for half that price—sometimes even less.
|
Price Tier |
What You’ll Find |
| Under $100 | Clean designs, quality chiffon or satin, solid colors |
| $100-$150 | Better fabric weight, more design details, wider color range |
| $150-$250 | Premium fabrics, intricate embellishments, designer looks |
| $250+ | Luxury materials, couture details, high-end labels |
Here’s what matters: a $90 chiffon dress in the right color and fit photographs just as beautifully as one costing three times more. Your bridesmaids don’t have to spend a fortune to look stunning.
Best fabrics for affordable bridesmaid dresses
Fabric affects everything—how a dress moves, how it photographs, and how comfortable your bridesmaids feel from ceremony to last dance. Luckily, the most budget-friendly options also happen to be the most versatile.
Chiffon
Chiffon is a lightweight, semi-sheer fabric with a soft, flowing drape. It’s the most popular choice for bridesmaid dresses for good reason: it moves beautifully in photos, skims over the body without clinging, and stays comfortable even in warm weather. You’ll find chiffon at nearly every price point.
Missacc Flatte ring A-Line One-Shoulder Chiffon Bridesmaid With Split Front
Satin and matte satin
Satin brings that classic, elegant sheen perfect for formal weddings. Matte satin—sometimes called crepe-back satin—offers the same luxurious feel without the high shine, which tends to be more forgiving in flash photography. Both look far more expensive than they typically cost.
Classic Scoop Neck A-Line Floor-Length Satin Bridesmaid Dresses #SBD11480
Tulle and mesh
Tulle is that fine, net-like fabric you see in romantic, layered skirts. When used as an overlay, it adds dimension and a dreamy quality without driving up the price. This fabric works especially well for garden weddings and bohemian themes.
Jersey and stretch knits
Jersey is a soft, stretchy fabric that moves with the body rather than fighting against it. Because it’s naturally forgiving, dresses in jersey often require fewer alterations, which saves your bridesmaids money beyond the initial purchase.
Most flattering silhouettes for budget bridesmaid dresses
The silhouette—the overall shape of the dress—matters more than almost any other factor when it comes to how your bridal party looks and feels. Getting this right makes everything else easier.
A-line dresses
A-line dresses fit at the waist and gradually flare outward, creating a shape like the letter “A.” This silhouette flatters virtually every body type, which is exactly why it remains the most popular choice for bridal parties with bridesmaids of different shapes and sizes.
Fit and flare styles
Fit and flare dresses hug the body through the torso, then flare dramatically at the hip or knee. The style creates a defined waistline and hourglass shape—particularly flattering for bridesmaids who want to show off their curves.
Empire waist designs
Empire waist dresses have a raised waistline sitting just below the bust, with fabric flowing loosely from there. This silhouette elongates the figure and provides comfort through the midsection. It’s an excellent choice for expecting bridesmaids or anyone who prefers a relaxed fit.
Sheath and column dresses
Sheath dresses follow the body’s natural lines in a sleek, straight cut. They offer a modern, sophisticated look that photographs beautifully, though they tend to be most flattering on slimmer figures or bridesmaids who feel confident in form-fitting styles.
Popular colors for budget-friendly bridal parties
Certain colors are produced in higher quantities, which often makes them more affordable and easier to match if bridesmaids are ordering from different retailers.
Classic neutrals
Champagne, taupe, and gray work year-round and complement virtually any wedding color scheme. These shades stay consistently in stock and tend to be priced competitively because of their steady popularity.
Romantic pastels
Blush, dusty rose, sage green, and dusty blue remain favorites for spring and summer weddings. These soft tones flatter most skin tones and create a cohesive, romantic look in photos.
Bold jewel tones
Emerald, burgundy, navy, and plum make a striking statement, particularly for fall and winter celebrations. These rich colors photograph dramatically and typically cost no more than lighter shades.
Trending earth tones
Terracotta, rust, and mauve have become popular for bohemian and rustic weddings. While trendy colors sometimes carry premium pricing, these earth tones have gone mainstream enough to be found at budget-friendly price points.
Budget bridesmaid dresses by length
Dress length affects both the formality of your bridal party’s look and, in some cases, the price.
- Formal weddings: Floor-length gowns are typically expected
- Semi-formal weddings: Tea-length or midi styles work beautifully
- Casual weddings: Knee-length or short dresses feel appropriate
Floor-length gowns
Floor-length dresses remain the classic choice for evening ceremonies and formal venues. They create an elegant, cohesive look in photos and hide footwear—helpful if your bridesmaids want to wear comfortable flats instead of heels.
Tea-length and midi styles
Tea-length dresses hit between the knee and ankle, offering a vintage-inspired aesthetic. This length allows for easier movement and works particularly well for outdoor celebrations where bridesmaids might be navigating grass or uneven ground.
Knee-length and short options
Shorter dresses suit casual, daytime, or beach weddings perfectly. They often cost less due to reduced fabric, and they give bridesmaids a chance to show off statement shoes.
Plus-size bridesmaid dresses on a budget
Finding affordable plus-size options has become much easier, though it still helps to know where to look. Many online retailers now offer extended sizing without charging more for larger sizes.
- What to look for: True-to-size fit, adjustable features like lace-up backs, and inclusive size ranges
- Flattering necklines: V-neck and sweetheart styles elongate the torso
- Best silhouettes: A-line and empire waist provide both comfort and elegance
- Fabric tip: Structured fabrics with some stretch offer support without feeling restrictive
Missacc carries bridesmaid dresses in a wide range of sizes, including plus-size mother of the bride dresses, so every member of your bridal party can find something beautiful.
How to shop for cheap bridesmaid dresses online
Online shopping offers the best selection and prices for budget bridesmaid dresses. The approach is just a bit different than shopping in person.
Check size charts and customer reviews
Sizing varies significantly between brands, so always check the specific size chart rather than assuming your usual size will work. Customer reviews often include photos and honest feedback about fit, color accuracy, and fabric quality—exactly the kind of information you can’t get from product photos alone.
Order fabric swatches before committing
Most online retailers offer free or low-cost fabric swatches. Ordering swatches before purchasing lets you see the true color in different lighting and feel the fabric quality firsthand.
Understand the return and exchange policy
Before placing any order, take a few minutes to review the return policy. Some retailers offer generous return windows, while others charge restocking fees or don’t accept returns on custom orders. Knowing the details upfront prevents surprises later.
Factor in potential alteration costs
The dress price isn’t the only expense to consider. Most bridesmaids need at least minor alterations—hemming is the most common. Some silhouettes, like A-line dresses in stretchy fabrics, typically require fewer adjustments than more structured styles.
Mix and match bridesmaid dress ideas
The mix-and-match trend lets each bridesmaid choose a style that flatters her figure while keeping the overall look cohesive. It’s become one of the most popular approaches for modern bridal parties.
Same color with different necklines
This is the easiest way to do mix-and-match styling. Each bridesmaid picks her most flattering neckline—whether V-neck, sweetheart, or off-the-shoulder—while the identical color keeps everything unified.
Same fabric with different silhouettes
When bridesmaids have very different body types, letting each person choose her most flattering silhouette creates a more comfortable and confident bridal party. Consistent fabric keeps the look polished and intentional.
Gradient and ombre color palettes
Using varying shades within one color family—like moving from blush to mauve to burgundy—creates a stunning visual effect in photos. This approach takes more coordination but results in a truly memorable aesthetic.
Best bridesmaid dresses under $100
At this price point, you’ll find plenty of beautiful options in quality fabrics and flattering cuts.
Chiffon A-line styles
The combination of chiffon fabric and A-line silhouette offers the best value at this budget level. These dresses flatter virtually everyone, come in dozens of colors, and photograph beautifully. Browse inexpensive bridesmaid dresses under $100 to see the range available.
Simple satin gowns
Clean lines and minimal embellishment keep satin dresses affordable while still looking elegant. These understated styles work well for bridesmaids who prefer classic sophistication over trendy details.
Classic V-neck designs
The V-neckline flatters most figures and remains widely available at budget prices. It elongates the neck and torso while staying easy to accessorize with statement jewelry.
Affordable bridesmaid dresses from $100 to $150
Stepping up slightly in price opens doors to upgraded details and premium fabrics.
Embellished and beaded options
This price range includes dresses with sequin accents, lace appliques, or delicate beading. These details add visual interest and create a more elevated appearance without stretching the budget too far.
Premium fabric selections
Higher-quality chiffon with better drape, silk-like satin, or even velvet becomes available at this level. The difference in how these fabrics move and photograph often makes the modest price increase worthwhile, particularly for formal weddings.
Convertible and multi-way dresses
Convertible dresses feature straps that can be wrapped and styled in multiple ways, letting each bridesmaid create her preferred neckline from a single dress design. They’re practical, flattering, and perfect for mix-and-match bridal parties.
When to order budget bridesmaid dresses
Timing matters when shopping for affordable bridesmaid dresses, especially when ordering online.
Recommended ordering timeline
- Ideal timing: 4-6 months before the wedding for made-to-order styles
- Why timing matters: Allows for production, shipping, trying on, and any needed alterations
- Group ordering: Coordinating with your bridal party to order together helps ensure color consistency
Ready to ship options for last-minute weddings
In-stock dresses ship immediately, making them perfect for tight timelines. You might have fewer customization options, but ready-to-ship styles can arrive within days rather than weeks.
FAQs about budget bridesmaid dresses
How much should bridesmaids budget for dress alterations?
Alteration costs typically range from $30 to $100, depending on the adjustments required. Hemming is the most common alteration and usually runs $20-$50. Setting aside an additional $50-$75 beyond the dress price covers most standard adjustments.
Can you mix budget bridesmaid dresses from different stores?
Yes, though it takes careful color matching. Order swatches from each retailer and compare them in natural lighting before committing. When possible, ordering all dresses from one retailer gives you the best color consistency.
Do cheap bridesmaid dresses look good in wedding photos?
Absolutely. Affordable dresses photograph beautifully when chosen in flattering silhouettes and quality fabrics like chiffon or satin. Fit matters far more than price tag—a well-fitting $80 dress looks better than an ill-fitting $300 one.
Are budget bridesmaid dresses good quality?
Quality varies by retailer, which is why reading customer reviews is so helpful. Many affordable brands offer excellent construction and fabrics at lower price points by selling directly online and skipping traditional retail markups.
What is the cheapest color for bridesmaid dresses?
Classic, high-demand colors like navy, black, champagne, and blush tend to be most affordable because they’re produced in larger quantities. Unusual or very trendy colors may cost slightly more due to limited availability.
