How Much Do Wedding Dresses Cost in 2026?
If you’ve just started wedding dress shopping, you’re probably wondering the same thing almost every bride asks at the very beginning: “How much does a wedding dress actually cost?”
With endless styles, fabrics, price points and designers out there, it can feel a little overwhelming. So today, we’re breaking it all down, from average price ranges to what influences the cost, so you can walk into your appointment feeling informed, confident and excited.
At Bridal Indulgence, our designer edit is carefully curated for brides who love modern romance, effortless silhouettes and beautifully crafted details. Our gowns range from £1,800–£5,000 with the majority sitting around £2,000-£2,500, but the “right” budget is always the one that feels comfortable for you.
Let’s dive into what really affects the cost of a wedding dress…
What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding Dress in the UK?
Most UK brides spend somewhere between £1,500 and £3,500 on their wedding dress. However, the price you’ll pay depends on a few key factors, from the designer you choose to the materials used and the construction of the gown.
Here at Bridal Indulgence in Farnham, our collection sits at the premium end of the bridal market: beautifully made dresses with modern, timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship from labels such as:
The price of your wedding dress doesn’t include tailoring, so you’ll need to allow for this in your budget. We typically recommend setting aside around £500 for alterations, depending on the complexity of your gown and the adjustments needed.
What Affects the Price of a Wedding Dress?
1. The Designer
Just like with ready-to-wear fashion, different designers sit in different price brackets.
Some designers are known for hand-crafted details, couture-inspired construction and premium fabrics, all of which contribute to a higher price point. Others focus on simpler silhouettes or more streamlined production processes, making the gowns more accessible price-wise.
2. The Fabrics
Silk, crepe, organza, lace, beading and hand-appliqué all play a major role in the cost.
The more intricate the fabric, the more time it takes to work with, which is why a minimalist crepe gown will often cost less than a heavily embellished lace dress.
3. Construction & Craftsmanship
A beautifully structured bodice, internal corsetry, hand-placed lace and layers of tulle aren’t just about aesthetics — they also take hours of skilled work. Many of our gowns use couture-inspired techniques that elevate both the fit and the overall feel of the dress.
4. Made-to-Order vs. Off-the-Rack
Most designer gowns are made to order, meaning a team of seamstresses and pattern cutters creates your dress specifically for you. Ready-to-wear or off-the-rack gowns tend to be less expensive because they’re produced in standard sizes and are mass-produced.
5. Rush Orders
If you need your wedding dress to arrive quicker than the standard lead time, some designers offer a rush fee option. You would typically be looking at an extra 10%-20% on top of the price of the gown.
Should You Set a Wedding Dress Budget Before Shopping?
Absolutely, and it’s something we always ask brides ahead of their appointment with us. Knowing your comfortable spending range helps us guide you to the dresses in our collection that are within your budget. You should never feel pressured to try gowns outside your budget. Wedding dress shopping should feel exciting, not stressful.
At Bridal Indulgence, you’ll have exclusive use of our Farnham bridal studio for 90 minutes, where we help you explore a beautiful collection of gowns that suit both your style and your price point.
What happens if I try on Wedding Dresses Over my Budget?
If you choose a dress that’s over your budget at Bridal Indulgence, we’ll always let you know before you step into it. From there, it’s completely your decision. We’ll gently advise you to think carefully before trying on a gown that stretches your budget. Some brides are happy to spend a little more if they find the dress, while others prefer to stay firmly within their original price range. If that’s you, trying something “just for fun” can sometimes lead to unnecessary disappointment if you fall in love with it.
Ready to Find the Dress That Feels Like You?
If you're looking for a wedding dress that feels modern, romantic and beautifully crafted, and our collection aligns with your budget, we’d love to welcome you into our Farnham bridal boutique for a relaxed, personal appointment.
Get in touch today to book your appointment at Bridal Indulgence.
And, while you’re here, why not take a scroll across our Instagram for even more bridal inspiration.
Kerri & the Bridal Indulgence Team x