6 tricks to an expensive-looking wedding dress

A bridal gown that doesn’t fit you well can cost a bomb, but still doesn’t look it.

Make sure the fabric sits right on your body. Check for gaping, excess fabric and unsightly gathers. You can purchase the simplest dress of the rack and if you get it altered right, it can look like a custom piece. (See: Altering your wedding dress? 5 things brides should know)

Photo: Her World Brides

It’s not in the amount of sparkle or beading but the way it’s embellished – here, a beautifully embellished belt lends instant glamour to the look. And this should be your mantra: Less can be more.

Otherwise, do without embellishments altogether and choose something that places emphasis on the texture of the fabric or the way it’s draped. 

Photo: Her World Brides

See also: Super sheer capes, black trims and pretty bows: 3 bridal trends that’ll be hot for 2018

Picking anything too shiny or crinkly and you run the risk of the gown looking tacky.

The less is more mantra applies here too; touches of nice lace can make your gown look better than one fully draped in low quality lace. 

Photo: Her World Brides

See also: 7 GOWN FABRICS THAT MAKE YOUR OUTDOOOR WEDDING A BREEZE

Skip the bright white, which can make you look washed out. Consider off-white and ivory, which don’t just look more flattering against our skin tones, but also have a more luxurious feel compared to a stark white hue.

The latest trend: Barely-there pastels that give your bridal look the dreamiest feel. 

Photo: Digio/Instagram

Your gown designer will know best so talk to them on the best undergarments to wear with your gown. 

Make sure there are no visible lumps and bumps that’ll show under your dress.

For extra support that sewn-on bra cups can’t deliver, designers sometimes sew the bra to the strapless gown itself.

See also: CHOOSING THE RIGHT LINGERIE FOR YOUR WEDDING DRESS – WE SHOW YOU HOW

Play up your dress with matching accessories like a glittering hair clip, necklace or a statement bracelet (affordable ones from Lovisa, Chomel, Forever 21 or ASOS can look super pretty!).

Remember to bring your accessories to your fitting so you know which go best, and if they don’t, you have enough time to shop for others. 

Photo: Her World Brides

Getting your groom’s suit off-the-rack? Here are 4 WAYS TO MAKE YOUR AFFORDABLE WEDDING SUIT LOOK EXPENSIVE