Wedding dresses: uniquely expensive

Before Kim Kardashian got married last week, fashion and celebrity rags were abuzz about the "reveal" of her wedding dress. In fact, it turned out that she had three wedding dresses that she wore throughout the evening, all designed by "family friend" and bridal design megastar Vera Wang. Estimated cost - well, MSRP since Kardashian surely did not pay for them - for these gowns? Around $135,000 - $150,000 each.

Back in May, Catherine Middleton's wedding gown caused even more speculation and delight when it was finally revealed. Undoubtedly a triumph, the Sarah Burton-designed satin masterpiece was estimated to cost around $415,000. The hand-stitched lace shoes and veil were extra.

The bridal gown is one of the biggest ticket items of any wedding, with even non-celebrity brides willing to spend several thousands of dollars on a dress they will wear (presumably) for a few hours once in their lives. Between celebrity stargazing and television shows like "Say Yes to the Dress," pop culture feeds this beast and perpetuates the unquestioned idea that bridal gowns are egregiously expensive and that is that.

But...why are wedding dresses so expensive? And are they worth it?

After shopping for her own gown, Caitlin Kenney of NPR's Planet Money asked this question when she recently visited New York's International Bridal Week.  Have a listen or read the transcript and see what you think.

Interested in planning weddings and advising brides on their wedding attire? The Sheffield Wedding & Event Planning course teaches everything you need to know to orchestrate a memorable event, from creating a guest list, to hiring vendors, to creating a beautiful wedding design.

Comments

[Practical wedding favor]

too expensive for a wedding dress...you have an entire wedding for amount!

[Affordable Clothes]

I like how she paid so much for that wedding and it didn't last very long o.0