Unlike suits, bridesmaids dresses are usually only worn once. Though some tastefully made bridesmaid dresses can be worn again, most bridesmaids wear their dresses as a one time thing. Having the dresses specially made, or following a certain design can be costly to the bridal party because this usually means the bridal party will have to pay for the dresses. Some bridesmaids are asked to pay for their dresses, though, and this is accepted in certain cultures.

      If you are planning your wedding on a budget, asking your bridesmaids to pay for their dresses is one way you can save money. Another way you can save money, however, is to simply get inexpensive bridesmaid dresses from a ready to wear store. You can have a color theme, instead of a uniform design. That means each of your bridesmaids get to have a unique dress, and just the color distinguishes them as part of the bridal party. Plus, these dresses are usually the type that can be worn at other venues or used for other occasions, and your bridesmaids will appreciate that or be more willing to pay for it themselves.

      To get unique, ready to wear, inexpensive bridesmaid dresses, you can go to department stores or formal wear boutiques. Stay away from the bridal section. Ask for long gowns or prom dresses instead. The NEVER SAY WEDDING rule really applies in this aspect. You can usually get great dresses for $100 to $200 (cheaper when on sale.) These dresses will be of good quality, and look just as nice. Usually the minute you say wedding or wander into a wedding boutique, the price for a similar dress with similar material goes up by 100 or sometimes 300 percent!

      Getting prom dresses or alternative formal attire is one great way for you or your bridesmaids to save money. It's much cheaper than having dresses made to be the same style, and your bridesmaids get to express a bit of their own style and personality by choosing their own dress. Just be sure to specify the color and length.

      Finally, the maid of honor traditionally wears a different color from the bridesmaids. Say your wedding color theme is blue, and all your bridesmaids are wearing light blue, you can have your maid of honor dress in dark or navy blue. The maid of honor is usually set apart because of her special role, and because her entrance heralds that the bride is to enter and walk down the aisle immediately.

Next Article: Finding Budget Wedding Gowns