Dress

Come up with a budget before you start shopping. Look through magazines and on-line to get an idea of prices. In general, your gown shouldn’t exceed 10 percent of the cost of the wedding reception.

Purchase a simple but elegant gown and dress it up with glamorous accessories like a jeweled tiara or strappy sequined sandals. Try a manufacturer that designs bridesmaids’ dresses for a suitable and affordable look.

If you’re a size 14 or under, call the better stores in your area and ask about upcoming sample sales, when salons discount the past season’s dresses to make way for new merchandise. Also use the Internet to track down sample sales - many salons list their store calenders on their web site.

If you love their taste, consider borrowing a headpiece or veil from a relative or close friend, which can add anywhere from $2 to $200 to your dress fund.

In lieu of sample sales, some exclusive boutiques and stores ship their gowns to outlets, which then sell them at drastically reduced prices. You may find a dress that was originally $6,000 for as little as $200 - just be prepared for open dressing rooms and less-than-pampering service.