What You Need to Know About Renting Wedding Gowns
It’s no secret that wedding gowns aren’t cheap — they are probably one of the most expensive pieces of clothing that you will buy in your lifetime. For some brides, the cost is worth it because they have been dreaming about their wedding gown for years and are hoping to keep it as a memento of their big day. Other brides can’t justify spending thousands of dollars on a dress they’ll only wear once and are more interested in using any savings on a lavish honeymoon or a home post-wedding. Neither option is wrong, we always say every bride should do what feels right to them. But, if you are a bride who isn’t hung up on the details of their wedding gown, renting may be the best option for you. If this sounds like you, here are a few things you should consider about renting a wedding gown before you take that leap!
Pros
More Affordable
Typically renting a wedding gown is considered to be more affordable than purchasing your dress. The cost of renting a wedding gown will usually range anywhere from $50 - $2,000. The reason for this big gap in costs is that depending on the designer of the gown and the rental company you are working with, prices can fluctuate. Rental companies like Rent the Runway and Poshare both offer wedding gowns for rent, just make sure to read up on their rules and requirements as it can be different for every rental company.
Easier Process
If spending hours and hours in a bridal boutique trying on dozens of gowns sounds like a nightmare to you, renting a wedding gown can be an easier process. Once you rent your dress, you don’t have to worry about alterations, dry cleaning, storing, or preserving your gown. Most gowns will be sent to you a few days before your wedding and all you have to do is return them to the company a few days after. A hassle-free process for a bride who wants to keep things simple.
Photography by Joe Lee Foto
Photography by Joe Lee Foto
Cons
Limited Options
Renting a wedding gown does come with its limitations. Renting a wedding dress isn’t as common and the inventory is limited, so there are fewer options to choose from. If you have a specific vision of what you want your wedding dress to look like you may not be able to find a gown you love through a rental company. Most rental companies will also not allow you to alter the dress, so you can save on these costs, but as a result, may end up with a gown that doesn’t fit you quite right.
Additional Fees
You can save on initial dress costs with renting but may face additional fees after the fact. When renting a gown you have to be cautious about how you move throughout your wedding day. Any damages to the dress from busted seams to major stains, you will be responsible for. Paying for insurance on the dress at an additional cost can cover some minor damages, but you will have to cover the cost of the dress if there is significant damage.
Thinking of Renting?
If you are seriously considering renting a wedding dress just make sure to consider all of the facts. Read multiple reviews, browse rental sites, and consider your budget before making a decision. In some cases buying a gown that is made-to-measure or priced affordably may be more cost-effective than renting a wedding dress if you have a specific vision or can’t seem to find your dress size on rental websites. Either way, we hope you find a dream wedding dress that is perfect for you and your budget!
Photography by Ria Mackenzie Photography
Share this with a bride who is considering renting her wedding dress. If you’re looking for an affordable wedding gown that still gives you the flexibility to make alterations, browse our collection of made-to-measure wedding gowns that are all priced at $1,200 or less!
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