Finding budget bridesmaid dresses that look beautiful without breaking the bank is entirely possible in 2026. With dozens of online retailers specializing in affordable bridal party attire, you can dress your bridesmaids in stunning gowns for under $100 each. This guide reveals the best places to shop, how to save even more, and tips for keeping everyone happy with their dress choice.
How Much Do Bridesmaid Dresses Typically Cost?
The average bridesmaid dress costs approximately $128, according to The Knot's 2025 Real Weddings Study. However, prices can range dramatically from under $50 to over $500 depending on the retailer, fabric, and designer. Any dress priced under $150 is generally considered budget-friendly, while options under $100 offer the best value for cost-conscious bridal parties.
Key Takeaway: You don't need to spend hundreds per dress to have a beautifully coordinated bridal party. Quality bridesmaid dresses are available at every price point, with many stunning options under $100.
Bridesmaid Dress Price Breakdown
| Price Range | What to Expect | Best Retailers |
|---|---|---|
| Under $50 | Basic styles, limited colors, online-only | Amazon, Shein |
| $50-$100 | Quality construction, trendy styles, good sizing | Lulus, Ever-Pretty, Azazie |
| $100-$150 | Premium fabrics, custom sizing, try-at-home | Birdy Grey, Kennedy Blue |
| $150-$200 | Designer quality, extensive customization | Revelry, David's Bridal |
| $200+ | Luxury fabrics, boutique brands | BHLDN, Jenny Yoo |
According to The Knot, 35% of bridesmaids now spend under $100 on their dress, proving that affordable options are increasingly popular and accessible.
Best Places to Buy Budget Bridesmaid Dresses Online
Online retailers have revolutionized bridesmaid dress shopping by eliminating boutique markups and offering try-at-home options. Here are the top destinations for affordable bridesmaid dresses that don't sacrifice style or quality.
Birdy Grey - Starting at $89
Birdy Grey has become the go-to destination for budget-conscious bridal parties. Every dress is priced at $99 or less, with most styles at just $89. Their collection spans over 65 colors and includes chiffon, satin, and velvet options.
Why bridesmaids love it:
- Flat $99 pricing eliminates awkward budget conversations
- Mix and match studio for coordinated but not identical looks
- Sizes XS to 3XL with consistent fit
- 7-day turnaround for rush orders
- They donate to provide free prom dresses for teens in need
Azazie - Starting at $79
Azazie offers over 500 bridesmaid dress styles in 90+ colors, making it easy to find the perfect match for any wedding palette. Their free custom sizing option ensures every bridesmaid gets a dress that fits perfectly.
Standout features:
- Free custom sizing based on your measurements
- Try-at-home sample program ($10-$15 per dress)
- Sizes 0-30 for truly inclusive options
- Frequent sales with dresses under $79
Lulus - Starting at $58
Nearly every bridesmaid dress at Lulus is priced under $100, with many options under $70. Their strength is modern, fashion-forward designs that bridesmaids will actually want to wear again.
What sets them apart:
- 2,340+ styles under $100
- Sizes XXS to 3XL
- Trendy designs updated frequently
- Easy filtering by color, neckline, and silhouette
- Free returns within 10 days
Kennedy Blue - Starting at $99
This family-owned Minnesota company has been creating bridal wear for over 40 years. All Kennedy Blue bridesmaid dresses are priced under $150, with many styles at $99 during sales.
Key benefits:
- At-home try-on program in your actual size
- Free color swatches
- Matching groomsmen accessories available
- Quality fabrics: chiffon, lace, or combination
Ever-Pretty - Starting at $40
Ever-Pretty offers some of the lowest prices in the market without sacrificing style. Most dresses are under $100, with many options under $60.
Budget perks:
- Extensive color selection including trending shades
- Regular sales and promotions
- Fast shipping options
- Plus sizes widely available
Retailer Comparison Chart
| Retailer | Price Range | Custom Sizing | Try-at-Home | Size Range | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Birdy Grey | $89-$99 | No | No | XS-3XL | 65+ |
| Azazie | $79-$150 | Yes (Free) | Yes ($10-15) | 0-30 | 90+ |
| Lulus | $58-$100 | No | No | XXS-3XL | 40+ |
| Kennedy Blue | $99-$149 | Yes | Yes (Free) | 0-32 | 50+ |
| Ever-Pretty | $40-$100 | No | No | XS-5XL | 60+ |
| David's Bridal | $99-$200 | Yes (Fee) | In-store | 0-30W | 40+ |
Mix and Match: The Budget-Friendly Trend
One of the most popular ways to keep bridesmaid costs down while creating a stunning visual effect is the mix and match approach. Instead of requiring all bridesmaids to wear identical dresses, you choose a color palette and let each person select their own style.
Why Mix and Match Saves Money
- Bridesmaids can choose styles that flatter their body type
- Different price points can be accommodated within the same color family
- Some may already own a suitable dress
- Reduces the pressure of one-size-fits-all pricing
How to Execute Mix and Match Successfully
- Choose 2-3 coordinating colors from the same retailer's palette
- Set a fabric guideline (all chiffon, all satin, etc.)
- Specify dress length (all floor-length or all midi)
- Let bridesmaids choose their neckline and silhouette
Popular mix and match color combinations:
- Dusty rose + mauve + champagne
- Sage green + eucalyptus + moss
- Navy + slate blue + dusty blue
- Burgundy + wine + blush
Department Stores and Alternative Options
Don't overlook traditional retailers when hunting for budget bridesmaid dresses. Department stores and non-bridal brands often have beautiful options at fraction of boutique prices.
Nordstrom - $80-$200
Nordstrom's bridesmaid section features elegant options from brands like Lulus, WAYF, and Dress the Population. Their legendary return policy makes trying styles risk-free.
ASOS - $50-$150
ASOS carries a wide selection of bridesmaid-appropriate dresses in inclusive sizes. Free returns make it easy to order multiple options for comparison.
Amazon - $30-$100
Amazon has thousands of bridesmaid dress options, though quality varies. Stick to items with 100+ reviews and 4+ star ratings. Popular brands include Ever-Pretty, ALICEPUB, and FANCIEST.
Abercrombie & Fitch - $80-$150
Abercrombie has quietly become a destination for elevated basics that work beautifully for bridesmaids. Their satin and slip dresses are particularly popular.
Target - $40-$80
Target's All in Motion and A New Day lines occasionally feature formal dresses suitable for bridesmaids, especially for more casual weddings.
Rental Options for Maximum Savings
If your bridesmaids want a designer look without the designer price, rental services offer incredible value.
Rent the Runway
- Rent designer gowns for $50-$150 (vs. $300-$500 retail)
- 4-8 day rental periods
- Backup size included free
- Dry cleaning included
Borrowing Magnolia
- Specializes in bridesmaid dress rentals
- Prices start at $50
- Wide selection of styles and colors
When Rental Makes Sense
- Destination weddings where transport is complicated
- Bridesmaids who don't want to store a formal dress
- When the bride wants a high-end look on a tight budget
- Last-minute additions to the bridal party
Timing Your Purchase for Maximum Savings
Strategic timing can save your bridal party significant money on their dresses.
Best Times to Buy Bridesmaid Dresses
| Time Period | Expected Discount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black Friday/Cyber Monday | 30-50% off | Best sales of the year |
| January | 25-40% off | Post-holiday clearance |
| July | 20-30% off | Mid-year inventory clearance |
| End of Season | 40-60% off | Discontinued colors and styles |
Sample Sales
Many retailers hold sample sales where floor models and discontinued styles sell at 40-70% off. Sign up for email lists from your favorite retailers to get notified.
Group Discounts
If you're ordering 4+ dresses, ask about group discounts. Many retailers offer 10-15% off bulk orders, and some provide a free dress for the bride when the bridal party orders together.
Hidden Costs to Consider
A $99 dress might not stay at $99 once you factor in additional expenses. Help your bridesmaids budget accurately by considering these extras.
Additional Bridesmaid Expenses
| Expense | Typical Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alterations | $20-$100 | Hemming most common |
| Shipping | $0-$25 | Many retailers offer free shipping |
| Undergarments | $20-$50 | Strapless bra, shapewear |
| Shoes | $30-$100 | Unless they already own suitable ones |
| Accessories | $20-$75 | Jewelry, wrap, clutch |
Budget tip: Choose styles that require minimal alterations. A-line dresses and adjustable straps tend to fit well off the rack.
Having the Budget Conversation
One of the most important aspects of bridesmaid dress shopping is handling the budget conversation with sensitivity.
Tips for Brides
- Ask privately: Reach out to each bridesmaid individually to ask about their budget
- Be flexible: Consider different price points for different financial situations
- Offer options: Give a range of acceptable dresses at various prices
- Consider contributing: If you have a specific vision, offer to help cover costs
If a Bridesmaid Can't Afford It
- Offer to pay for her dress as her bridesmaid gift
- Look for sales together
- Consider rental options
- Explore secondhand marketplaces like Poshmark or Stillwhite
Visualize Before You Buy
Before committing to a color or style, see how different options might look on your bridal party. RobeMarie's AI virtual try-on lets you visualize various dress styles and colors on your own photo, helping you make confident decisions before spending a dime.
This is especially helpful when coordinating a mix-and-match bridal party, as you can see how different silhouettes and colors work together before anyone places an order.
Recommended Products for Bridesmaids
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View on Amazon →Frequently Asked Questions
Who typically pays for bridesmaid dresses?
Traditionally, bridesmaids pay for their own dresses, shoes, and alterations. However, this custom is evolving. Some brides now contribute to dress costs, especially when requesting specific designer styles. Others cover the full cost as part of their bridesmaid gifts. The key is having an open conversation about expectations and budgets before shopping begins.
Are cheap bridesmaid dresses good quality?
Yes, many affordable bridesmaid dresses offer excellent quality comparable to expensive options. Retailers like Birdy Grey, Azazie, and Kennedy Blue have built their reputations on providing well-constructed dresses at accessible prices. The price difference often reflects brand markup rather than construction quality. Always check reviews and fabric content before purchasing.
Can bridesmaids wear different dresses?
Absolutely. Mix and match bridesmaid dresses are one of the biggest trends in weddings today. This approach allows each bridesmaid to choose a style that flatters her body type while staying within a coordinated color palette. It also accommodates different budgets, as bridesmaids can select from various price points within the approved options.
How far in advance should bridesmaids order their dresses?
Order bridesmaid dresses 4-6 months before the wedding. This timeline allows for shipping (2-4 weeks), trying on and potential exchanges, and alterations (2-4 weeks). If ordering custom sizing from retailers like Azazie, add an extra 2-3 weeks. Rush orders are possible but often incur additional fees.
What's the cheapest way to get bridesmaid dresses?
The most affordable options include renting from Rent the Runway ($50-$150), shopping Amazon and Ever-Pretty (under $50), or buying pre-owned from Poshmark or Stillwhite (50-70% off retail). Sample sales at bridal boutiques also offer significant discounts of 40-70% on floor models and discontinued styles.
Should all bridesmaids wear the same color?
Not necessarily. Many modern weddings feature bridesmaids in coordinating colors rather than identical shades. Popular approaches include ombre effects (light to dark in the same color family), complementary colors (navy and dusty blue), or completely mismatched neutrals. The key is maintaining visual cohesion through fabric type and dress length.
How do I handle bridesmaids with different budgets?
Have individual conversations with each bridesmaid about their comfortable spending range. Offer a selection of dresses at different price points within your color palette. Consider the mix and match approach, which naturally accommodates various budgets. If needed, offer to help cover costs for bridesmaids facing financial constraints.
Can I return bridesmaid dresses if they don't fit?
Return policies vary by retailer. Lulus offers free returns within 10 days for unworn dresses. Azazie accepts returns on ready-to-ship items within 30 days. Custom-sized dresses are typically final sale. Always check the return policy before ordering, and consider try-at-home programs when available to reduce the risk of ill-fitting purchases.
Dress Your Bridal Party for Less
Finding budget bridesmaid dresses doesn't mean compromising on style or quality. With so many affordable retailers offering beautiful options under $100, you can create a stunning bridal party without financial stress on your closest friends and family.
Start shopping early, communicate openly about budgets, and consider mix-and-match options that accommodate different body types and price points. Your bridesmaids will thank you for being considerate of their wallets while still creating beautiful wedding memories.
Ready to explore bridesmaid dress styles? Try RobeMarie's virtual try-on to visualize different colors and silhouettes before shopping. For more wedding party inspiration, check out our guide to sage green bridesmaid dresses and affordable wedding dresses.
