Five money-saving ideas for bridesmaids

1. Throw out the “bridesmaid” tag. Just because it doesn’t say “bridesmaid” on the tag doesn’t mean it couldn’t be the perfect bridesmaid dress. Dresses off the rack from a department store or boutique often go on sale at the end of the season and can sometimes be worn again for different functions. 
2. Pick a color, not a style. Choose a fabric swatch that matches your wedding colors and let your bridesmaids choose their own dress in that color.
3. Choose common neutrals. Whether it’s neutral accessories or letting bridesmaids wear their favorite little black dress, neutrals are easy to find and slight variations won’t catch the eye of your guests.
4. Shop the discount section. Dresses on the discount rack are usually a year or two behind the season, but they are still beautiful and brand new.
5. Shop online. Many designers have online galleries, so you can expand your selection without expanding your price point.

Article inspired by Denise Vivaldo, author of Do-it-for-Less! Weddings

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