The rising costs of serving as a bridesmaid have prompted a growing number of women to turn to second-hand dresses, according to data from the online resale platform Vinted. Searches for pre-owned bridesmaid dresses increased by 17% compared to the previous year, reflecting concerns over the financial burden associated with the role.

A recent survey of 2,000 women across the United Kingdom found that nearly one in four women who have been bridesmaids (24%) considered declining the role due to its expenses. This proportion climbs to 35% among women aged 25 to 34, indicating particular sensitivity to the costs in this age group.

Financial expectations also appear to be a challenge. About 59% of women who have previously been bridesmaids reported that the role cost more than they anticipated. Approximately one-third (33%) spent between £250 and £499 on their most recent bridesmaid outfit. The survey highlights that more than one in three (36%) bridesmaids covered the cost of their dress themselves, with this figure rising to 46% among those aged 25 to 34, and over half (52%) in London.

Regarding the reuse of bridesmaid dresses, 42% of respondents who had not worn their dress again cited the lack of another occasion as the main reason, while 25% said the dress felt too identifiable from the wedding day. However, a majority of former bridesmaids (63%) expressed comfort with wearing a pre-worn bridesmaid dress, rising to 70% in the 25 to 34 age bracket.

The practice of wearing second-hand clothing at weddings is also gaining acceptance more broadly. Over one-third (34%) of women who have attended weddings reported wearing a second-hand outfit to such events. Among the motivating factors were saving money (69%), avoiding purchasing garments that would likely be worn only once (38%), and finding higher quality items at lower prices (35%). Additionally, 80% of women surveyed regarded reselling bridesmaid dresses after weddings as “perfectly acceptable.”

The average listing price for formal dresses on Vinted stands at around £11, with green, pink, and blue identified as the most sought-after bridesmaid dress colours according to the platform’s data.

The survey was conducted in July 2026 by Think BF, providing insight into shifting attitudes about the financial aspects of participating in weddings and the growing trend toward sustainable and cost-effective fashion choices.