Wedding

These 32 “Cool Bride” Finds Look Like Luxury But Don’t Top $500

Yusra Siddiqui  Sat, 01 Apr 2023  Who What Wear

Whether you're in the midst of wedding planning or simply have a running mood board on Pinterest for fun, we can all agree that preparing for the special event can come at a high price. I won't even go into the actual event—but when shoes, dresses, and even accessories are starting at $1k, you can guess that things start to add up. But don't fret at the numbers just yet, because I'm here to help. Despite already have gotten married a few years back, I find myself browsing through the bridal market often. And through my search, I was able to scour a plethora of cool-bride finds that fell under the $500 price point. And whether you want your look to be opulent, understated, or trend-forward, there's an option for everyone. After all, everyone deserves to feel luxe on their special day.

Not only did I pick out pieces from fashion favorites like Staud and Cult Gaia, but I also scrolled through pages of affordable retailers like Mango to find options that were both beautiful and very budget-friendly. If you're looking to have that "wow" effect, look no further than the 32 finds below. Featuring party dresses, veils, shoes, and more, this shopping roundup is made for fashion brides out there. I may be already planning a vow renewal just so I have a chance to wear some of them. 

Leave it to Staud to come out with a bridal line made for the fashion girls. Out of all the items, this custom veil is what truly captured my heart.

Simple yet stunning. (And under $200!)

These lace gloves will take any white dress to the next level. 

These metallic wedge heels may not be the most traditional of heels, but how stunning do they look paired with this silky white number?

Reformation has tons of stunning bridal options, but this is a WWW favorite.

Because why not?

I'm always a big fan of a bridal suiting moment.

No one would ever guess these are under $100. (Even I was shocked.)

Who said you can't wear a little black on your wedding day?

I wore this exact dress to my Bridgerton bridal shower and could not stop being asked where it was from. 

It's the ruffle detailing that really does it for me.

The draping on this dress is just divine.

I'm planning on wearing this skirt to Taylor Swift's tour, but it will also make a spectacular option for a bachelorette. Talk about versatile.

Just take a look at that sculptural wedge.

I can't help but imagine this top paired with sleek trousers for a casual yet cool courthouse wedding.

For the bride that simply can't be bothered with heels. 

It's hard to say no to feathers.

Instead of diamonds, why not opt for a floral choker? 

While I love Reformation's assortment of gowns, I had to include this dreamy mini pick. 

You'll want to take this to every wedding you go to moving forward.

Having a bridal brunch? This under-$100 dress is a great and easy option.

Is there such thing as too many pearls?

My jaw is on the floor. 

Bring on the drama!

Perfect for your honeymoon, bridal shower, and beyond.

When it comes to bachelorette and honeymoon dressing, accessories are very important.

Something blue has never looked so cool.

For the quirky bride. 

Now that's a party dress.

Sometimes simplicity is the best option.