Afternoon friends! A few weeks back, we took a look at coloured wedding dresses as a big trend for 2013, and I have to say, I fell in love. Not just with the colour trend, but with the concept of using a special occasion dress that wasn’t necessarily designed with a bride in mind. Every time I see a bold bride doing this I fall more in love with the idea – they look spectacular. But where, I wondered, would you go looking for a dress like this? Well, there are two accessible designers that come up again and again for me – both are popular for bridesmaid dresses, but I reckon you could happily wear one of their creations as a bride (although if you’re going for a traditional dress, hopefully this will inspire you for your girls). And the best part? Not one costs more than £300 including post and packaging. Seriously. Now that’s something to make you sit up and take note, right? Because the wedding dresses that usually go for this price can be a little plain, and not everyone can afford high end designer, let’s be honest. The labels I’m thinking of are Adrianna Papell and Elliot Claire, and just for fun I thought I would round up some gorgeous inspiration on Pinterest combined with a budget friendly version from one of these designers. Which is your favourite?

I LOVED this Lhuilier creation (and check out the whole wedding, it’s amazing!) with floral pattern, and the Metallic Rose A-line Evening Dress from Elliot Claire has a similar vibe. Accessorise it right and it’ll work beautifully for a balmy summer wedding. (Pinspiration by Christian Oth Studio via Grey Likes Weddings)

This amazing pink Adrianna Papell beaded one shoulder gown was part of our round up on its own, and I’ve already spotted three brides rocking the look for a reception dress. Such a lovely idea if you want to splash out on a second look! Or a first – I would totally wear this all day long if I could. (Pinspiration: Tec Petaja via Style Me Pretty)

Another dress you all were loving from the coloured dress feature was this insane Jenny Packham number (again, worn as a reception dress only). It’s just beyond beautiful, and in this year’s colour of the year you’re sure to make an impression. For a fraction of the price, try this Emerald Evening Dress from Elliot Claire. (Pinspiration: Caught the Light/Jenny Packham via 100 Layer Cake)

One of my fave ‘real bride in a non-bridal dress’ looks, this Canadian bride was super super stylish in a chic gold Adrianna Papell Sequin Gown. I especially love the combo of gold and nudes with bright bouquets (they also had neon stationery – adore). (Pinspiration: Erin Leydon Photography via Wedding Chicks)

Illusion backs are all over the place this year, but you don’t have to be able to afford Claire Pettibone (or even Tadashi Shoji) to get involved. The bolder floral detailing on this Ecru Embroidered Dress is ideal for a relaxed celebration, such as a beach ceremony. (Pinspiration: Kellee Walsh via Style Me Pretty)

The Isadora dress from BHLDN is by FAR my favourite new dress at the moment – I’m a little obsessed with its champagne shade and graduated sequins. But at $1,800, it’s not in everyone’s price bracket. Enter the Adrianna Papell Sequinned Strapless Mesh Gown – a different shade, but even more sparkly glamour! (Pinspiration: BHLDN)

Pink is SO this year’s colour for dresses, and while this Ralph Lauren number is breathtaking, you could also make an impression with the Pink Asymmetric Drape Dress from Elliot Claire, especially if you accessorise with a sparkly sash. (Pinspiration: Mi belle photography via Green Wedding Shoes)

Or how about something a bit more romantic? Rosette ruffle skirts have been a beautiful addition to the wedding dress style repertoire, none lovelier than this Amsale creation, and you can steal a little of that style (along with an adorable blush shade) with the Strapless Soutache Gown from Adrianna Papell. (Pinspiration: Pat Moyer Photography & Rachel Moyer Studio via Wedding Chicks)