10 Vintage inspired wedding dresses for under $500

Thu, Jan 22, 2009

They do exist! Even better, one could never guess these dresses can cost less than wedding invitations for most brides.

First up is my favorite find. I love of this gown. The slim silhouette, the color and the fabric are very 1930s. The one shown above is gold, but it also comes in white or ivory. Joli Satin Gown, $490

Rose and baby blue were popular wedding gown colors during the 1800s and it was common until the 1900s with the arrival of Department Stores in the Unite States. Only a few could afford a white wedding gown that they could never wear it again. ABS Dusty Rose Satin gown, $255

Short wedding dresses became popular when Coco Chanel introduced this new style in the 1920s. It was quickly embraced by brides at the time, but lost its popularity when the Great Depression began in the 30’s. This 1950’s version is stunning. I love, love the bodice on this dress! Milan Dolly Couture Dress, $495

Eyelet dress a la Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. The little bow in the back is so cute. The price tag is unbelievable. Isaac Mizrahi boatneck lace gown, $64.99. I’d shorten it after the wedding to wear as a summer dress!

More lovelies. Empire waist gowns were popular during the 40’s and 50’s. The third dress on first row is a mermaid silhouette with a boatneck neckline, again very Audrey Hepburn. The second dress on first row is another personal favorite. Love the sleeves, but you can also wear it in different ways (see link).

Clockwise:

Betsy & Adam pleated gown, $160

Butter by Nadia Satin Ball Gown, $349

Boatneck Audrey gown, $315

ABS by Allen Schwartz halter satin gown, $297

BCBGMAXAZRIA Women’s Cross Front Evening Gown with Beaded Straps, $438

Intrigue by Forever Yours gown, $478

Now I’m curious… would you buy your wedding dress from Target?