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A quiet revolution has started in the bridal wear industry. More and more brides are realizing that not only is a custom-made wedding gown affordable now, that it can be even MORE cheaper than its pret-a-porter counter.

So what changed? Why now? It's a question of increased competition, and small nimble companies seizing the opportunity to compete: especially on the Internet. The companies trying to carve a name for themselves in this space are as diverse as the Internet itself: there are overseas manufacturers now selling direct to the consumer, companies specialized in unique one-of-a-kind designs, and everything in between.

This is particularly good news for all brides who dread trying to decide on the right dress by trying on a sample gown that does not fit. One size does not fit all, especially when it comes to the most significant garment many women will wear in their lifetime. There is a certain leap of faith required, however, since most Internet retailers do not have brick and mortar stores where brides can try on the dress beforehand. Brides choose their style from pictures, send in their measurements and have their dress custom tailored. Several weeks or months later, their dress arrives via courier.

The Internet has made it possible for these companies to offer dresses at lower price points than traditional bridal boutiques due to their low overhead costs. Traditional retail stores mark up merchandise from two to three times the original purchase price to be able to pay the rent, the staff and to be able to finance the large amount of inventory required. Internet retailers on the other hand have a much smaller cost base since their rent is reliably inexpensively due to the fact it is not retail space. They also make their dresses on demand and therefore carry little inventory. These savings can be passed on to the savvy bride-to-be.

Design Your Own Wedding Dress

Another exciting option for the style-conscious AND budget-conscious bride is to have a dress made to her own specifications: often a combination of two or more designs. Some sites have their own designers who will guide the bride along in this process: they will help refine the final design using their knowledge of fabrics, design skills, and sewing methods. The surprising reality is that the resulting gown can often be much less expensive than even so called "affordable bridal couture" sold in chain stores.

This process can be particularly rewarding since it creates not only a wedding dress, but contributions to the legacy of the bride herself. She and others will know that her dress is unique in the world. Her gown will also help to express who she is as a person and the image she wants to convey on her wedding day.

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Source by Christianne Brunelle