Budget guide · AttireWhat a wedding costs
Wedding Outfit Costs
Attire budgets are almost always set on the headline garment price and almost always overrun on everything attached to it.
- Illustrative planning range
- £900 – £3,500
- Suggested budget allocation
- 5–10%
Illustrative planning ranges, rather than national averages or supplier quotes. Costs vary by date, location, guest numbers and the services you choose; confirm prices with each supplier.
Behind the quote
What drives the cost.
- Alterations, which routinely add several hundred pounds
- Accessories, shoes and underpinnings
- Whether outfits are bought, hired or made
- Second outfits for the evening
Where the savings are
Ways to spend less.
- Budget alterations from the start rather than discovering them
- Sample sales and pre-owned dresses, which are often barely worn
- Hire suits rather than buying, unless they will be worn again
- One outfit worn well beats two worn hurriedly
Before you book
Questions to ask.
- What do alterations typically cost here?
- How many fittings are included?
- What is the lead time, and the last date for changes?
- What is the cancellation policy?
Common questions
How much should we budget for attire?
UK couples typically spend between £900 and £3,500, which is around 5–10% of a total wedding budget. Where you land inside that depends mostly on alterations, which routinely add several hundred pounds.
How can we spend less on attire?
Budget alterations from the start rather than discovering them. Sample sales and pre-owned dresses, which are often barely worn.
What should we ask before booking?
What do alterations typically cost here? How many fittings are included?