Wedding dresses

Wedding dress: new, second-hand, tailored or rented – how to choose well

Updated 21 October 2026

Decide the format first

You can buy a ready-made dress (new, a boutique sample or one worn once), have one made to order, or rent one. A boutique sample often costs less than a new one from the same collection, but it shows signs of fittings. A second-hand dress worn once is usually the cheapest, but you must inspect it carefully. Tailoring gives an exact fit, and renting makes sense when you don't need the dress after the celebration.

Silhouette, fabric and size

The silhouette decides how the dress sits. A-line and ball gown suit most figures, mermaid shows off curves and limits movement, a straight dress is understated, and a short one is for a registry ceremony or the second day of celebrations. Fabric affects weight and price: lace and chiffon are light, satin and taffeta hold their shape, and a train and decoration add work for the tailor.

The size on dresses often does not match your everyday size. Give your bust, waist and hip measurements and your height, and also the heel height the length should suit. For a ready-made dress, treat alterations (corset, hem, straps) as a separate job.

What to put in your request

• silhouette – A-line, mermaid, ball gown, straight, short;
• format – new, second-hand, tailored, rental;
• size – S/M/L or measurements and height;
• condition – new, boutique sample, worn once;
• fabric and decoration – lace, satin, train, sleeves;
• colour – white, ivory, champagne, blush;
• brand, if you have already spotted one;
• wedding date and city for fittings;
• budget, if you want to state it.

Example: “I'm looking for a mermaid dress with lace, ivory, size M, height 168 cm. Ready-made new or a boutique sample, fitting in Christchurch. Wedding on 30 May, budget up to NZ$850.”

How to compare offers

Compare not only the price but what is included in it: alterations, cleaning, a veil, an underskirt or crinoline. For rentals, ask about the deposit, the period, responsibility for stains and the cost of cleaning. For tailoring, ask about the number of fittings, the timeline and what happens if it doesn't fit.

For second-hand dresses, ask for photos on a person and close-ups: seams, fastening, hem, train. Ask whether it has been dry-cleaned and whether any changes were made.

How it works on BlaBlaPrice

You write one request, and boutiques, tailors and private sellers answer in the chat: what they offer, the price or what it depends on, timing, photos. BlaBlaPrice shows the offer that gives the best value first, and reviews of the seller are next to each one. Sellers see their place among the others, so they often improve their terms. Contacts are hidden until you choose a seller. For details see the “How it works” page, and you can create a request here.

You will also need bridal lingerie, shoes and bridal accessories. Everything together is in the “Wedding” section.