This summer my brother-in-law is getting married. And hearing about the developing plans for the wedding reminds me how each small detail is important to the bride and groom — and how expensive realizing your dream can become.
But it's not just the bride and groom that bear the cost. Buying bridesmaid dresses can put a big burden on your guests, who will already be shelling out a lot of money for travel expenses and gifts.
But while everyone would like to save money, no none wants to compromise on the experience of their special day. So why not consider renting your bridesmaid dresses instead of buying them? You'll be able to afford more exclusive designs for far less, which makes a lot of sense for a dress that, in all likelihood, would only be worn once.
And in addition to renting the bridesmaid dresses, you can also save by renting bridesmaid dresses, jewelry, handbags and other accessories for your picture-perfect wedding.
Rent the Runway
Rent the Runway offers a great selection of couture dresses from designers like Vera Wang, Diane Von Furstenberg and Nicole Miller, plus jewelry, handbags and wraps to complete the look. Though not a bridesmaid-dress destination, there is a bridesmaid section culled from their collection. There you’ll find suitable dresses like the Elie Tahari Fresca Satin Dream Dress (retail $498, rental $85 for 4 days). Sizes run from 2 to 12 and there’s detailed fit information for each dress. You can also get a second size to try for free.
www.renttherunway.com/special_occasions/Bridesmaids
Little Borrowed Dress
Little Borrowed Dress creates a collection of styles each year that flatter most figures. Dresses, like the Joanna (retail $295, rental $75) are made from stretch silk charmeuse in sizes 0-18. Once you pick your style, you have a choice of 12 colors. Dresses are delivered 7 days before the wedding date and must be returned on the first business day after the event in the pre-paid packing provided.
www.littleborroweddress.com
The Adorn Shop
If your dream dress demands a diamond pavé necklace, you don’t have to shell out thousands of dollars to wear the real deal. Choose from a large selection of diamond earrings, bracelets and necklaces, like this Lockwood diamond Chandelier necklace (retail $27,375.00, rental $270). You receive the jewelry two days before the big event and it must be shipped back the first business day after the event with the pre-paid UPS label Adorn provides.
www.adorn.com
Bag Borrow or Steal
Looking for the perfect accessory to finish your outfit? You’ll find top handbag, watch, jewelry and sunglasses designers, including Chanel, Kate Spade and Louis Vuitton. You can rent by the week, month or quarter. For instance, this Prada Small Rose Satchel retails for $1,150 and rents for $32 per week. If you don’t return an item, the rental automatically renews until it’s returned. Return shipping is included.
www.bagborroworsteal.com
