Do you really need 4 different gowns for your big day?

It’s not uncommon to see brides changing into multiple gowns changes on their big day. These gowns can include the morning gown, the main banquet dress, the chic reception gown, and sometimes even a second or third march-in gown. Yes, it looks dreamy and seems like a necessity because “it’s your big day” and “everyone else does it” but let’s be real— choosing to jump on this trend comes with a hefty price tag, even if it’s a package.

So the question you should be asking yourself is, is it worth going above your budget to have more gowns, and do you need 3 gowns for your wedding?

In this article, we will elaborate on why we think it makes financial sense to have one wedding gown for your big day. But first, let us clarify one thing, having one gown does not mean that you are oversimplifying the wedding. Remember, the end goal should be to spend within your budget whilst creating a memorable wedding for yourself and your guests.

Without further ado, here’s why it makes financial sense to have one wedding gown for your big day and discover ways to transform that singular dress into a versatile showcase of diverse looks.

#1 Having One Wedding Gown Allows You To Spend Within Your Means

Picture this, you’re at a wedding gown shop browsing through a variety of wedding gown options. You contemplate having multiple dresses for different wedding-related events, perhaps one for the ceremony, another for the reception, and one more for the second march-in. Sounds like a dream to have a variety of looks right? And the next thing you know, you signed a $5,000 package for 3 wedding gowns, when you originally parked only a $2,500 budget for your wedding gown(s).

The cumulative cost of multiple wedding gowns stretches your budget thin, resulting in you compromising in other areas. Conversely, just imagine if you had chosen to opt for a single gown (that’s reasonably priced), it will allow you to allocate your budget more strategically. Directing funds towards other essential aspects of the celebration, such as the venue, food, and entertainment without unnecessary financial strain.

#2 Having One Wedding Gown Allows You To Save Cost On Dry Cleaning

The choice of a single wedding gown for the entire celebration can also translate into practical savings when it comes to the post-wedding task of dry cleaning. The process of cleaning a wedding dress involves delicate care and often incurs a considerable cost – which can be affected by multiple factors including but not limited to the fabric of the wedding gown and damages/stains to the fabric.

By opting for just one gown, couples can streamline and potentially reduce the expenses associated with dry cleaning.

#3 Having One Wedding Gown Allows You To Reduce Your Budget On Accessories

With multiple dress changes, there’s often a desire to have distinct accessories for each outfit, leading to the purchase of multiple pairs of shoes, different veils, and varied jewellery sets to match the changing aesthetics. This can add up quickly, hence having a single gown simplifies the accessory selection, allowing you to focus on key elements and potentially reducing accessory-related costs.

You can also allocate your accessory budget wisely, investing in high-quality pieces that enhance the chosen dress.

#4 Having One Wedding Gown Allows You To Make Things Less Stress

While this is not a financial reason to get a gown, it is a practical one.

Planning a wedding is already overwhelming enough, and managing multiple dress changes adds an extra layer of stress. You have to change out (which actually takes more time than you would expect) then make sure your shoes are right, your makeup is right and your hair is right, above all, you have to be ready by the allocated time so you don’t keep your guest waiting too long.

Why go through that mad rush when one wedding gown simplifies the process, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience on the big day? It’s a practical choice that aligns with a desire for a smoother and more seamless wedding celebration.

What Can You Do To Transform One Gown Into Multiple Looks

#1 Accessories

One simple way to elevate the gown’s appearance is via accessories, makeup and hair. Trust us, this is simpler and faster as compared to changing out of a gown.

You can add a veil for your first march-in and for your second march-in, add a nice pair of white gloves with a pair of sunnies for that playful look. You could also change your lip colour or do a simple hairstyle. The sky is your limit, just get creative with your look without spending too much time, otherwise, you might as well change out of a gown.

#2 Investing In A Custom-Made Wedding Gown

Investing in a custom-made wedding gown can allow you to drastically change the look without having to change out of the gown. By choosing to customise your wedding gown, you will have the opportunity to collaborate with the stylist, enabling a rich creative exploration that can produce multiple looks within a single bridal gown that fits your style and preference.

Li Wen, the owner of the local brand Afterpartybride, whom we had the privilege of interviewing also shared the same sentiment.

“It’s very feasible to create multiple looks from one gown. For instance, adding sleeves or a detachable train can provide a unique touch, transforming the gown into a second piece,” She illustrates.

Why It Makes Financial Sense To Have One Wedding Gown for Your Big Da

Source: Afterpartybride

If Li Wen’s statement sounds like something you might be keen to explore, you might want to check out her website. At Afterpartybride’s studio, you can expect a curated selection of add-ons awaiting brides, providing a playground for experimenting with diverse styles that are worth your buck.

Words From Author

You should not justify paying more just because “it’s your big day” and “everyone else has multiple gowns”.

The decision to have just one wedding gown stands out as a practical and financially savvy decision. It’s a shift towards a more mindful and sustainable approach to wedding planning. All you have to do is get creative with that one wedding gown and engage with the right brand could also help.