Planning a wedding can take a lot of money. When you want the bulk of your cash to go for the outfits you and the groom will wear, you might wonder where you can find low cost outfits for the people who will make up your bridal party. You do not have to make the gowns yourself. Instead, you can target your shopping for locations and times of the year when you can get the most for your money. You have a number of different choices for finding and buying affordable designer bridesmaid dresses that will not break the bank.

If you are like most brides, your first stop will probably be one of the local bridal shops in your area. These stores are typically well-known for selling brand new outfits that come in all of the latest styles and colors. Once the rush of wedding season subsides, they often put the leftover gowns on clearance for discounted prices. You pay a fraction of the original cost.

The discounted prices can be as much as half off the original prices, which can help you save a lot of money. They could be priced even lower than that depending on how old they are and in what styles they are available. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars for a single outfit, you may end up only paying a fraction of the original price. The apparel might come in the colors and styles from last season, however.

Another option you have is to check out the local consignment shops. These retailers sell apparel for significantly reduced prices. They are sometimes only worn once or twice before they are put up for sale at these locations. The prices that go along with them could fit in your budget.

While the shops might not have multiple dresses available in the same style and color, you could always mix and match the fashions. Your entire party does not have to look the same just to be in the wedding. Each woman can wear her own style of gown when you choose apparel from these types of stores.

After consignment shops, there are thrift stores to check out for your shopping needs. These retailers specialize in taking donated formal gowns and putting them up for sale. Granted, some of the styles and colors might be retro. Still, you only end up paying a few bucks per outfit, which lets you put the bulk of your wedding money to other use.

The inventory in these retailers always changes too. You may have to go back several times or shop at several different places just to get what you need for everyone. There is no guarantee you will find the sizes your attendants need on the first shopping trip. You may even have to shop at several different stores to locate gowns for everyone standing up with you at the altar.

The process of finding and buying bridesmaid dresses that are affordable does not have to be a challenge. You can spare your budget and put the money to better use by knowing your options for locating gowns on sale. The variety, style, and color of the apparel might vary from location to location. Still, you spare your budget while still putting on an elegant and beautiful wedding.