Wedding Gown Purchasing through the Decades

Wedding Gown Purchasing through the Decades

Wedding Gown Purchasing through the Decades. Mobile Image

How has buying a wedding gown changed since Mom bought her gown, and what can I expect within my budget in 2024? Let's take a look!



1980s: $300-$500
Average household income: $21,000
What was in style: Large puffy sleeves, extra large bows, applique lace, satin materials, ballgown shapes, big curly hair, poofy blusher veils. 



1990s: $700-$1000
Average household income: $37,000
What was in style: Sleek, silky styles, clean lines, little to no lace, long satin gloves, boat necklines, slip dresses, up-dos, no veil. 



2000s: $800-$1400
Average household income: $42,000
What was in style: Drop-waist ballgowns with lots of pick-ups in the skirt, beaded bodices, colored sashes, tiaras, hair down, parted on the side and curled, fingertip-length veils.



2010s: $1200-$1700
Average household income: $49,000
What was in style: Fitted, trumpet styles, lots of ruching, accents of bling, delicate lace, illusion sleeves, halter tops, flower crowns, half-up-dos, full-glam makeup, chapel-length veils. 

 

 

 

Present: $1700-$2500
Average household income: $57,000
What's in style now: Sleek, fitted gowns with bows or pearl accents, whimsical boho-style gowns with lots of lace and delicate details, 3D elements, large florals, sheer bodices, slits, sparkle tulle, textured skirts, long loose braids with flowers in the hair, fingertip-length veils. 


Wedding gowns have certainly evolved! Often a quality gown seems expensive, but it's great to see that the ratio of income to cost has stayed fairly consistent. The dress of your dreams is definitely within reach here at Malmrose Bridal!