The wedding season has arrived, but for many brides-to-be across Pakistan, the excitement has turned into stress. With lehenga prices skyrocketing this year, bridal shopping has become a financial burden instead of a joyful experience.
From Karachi to Lahore, shopkeepers report a massive surge in fabric and stitching costs, pushing bridal dress prices beyond reach. Once a symbol of joy and celebration, the dream of wearing a perfect lehenga on the big day is now slipping away for many brides struggling to manage wedding expenses.
According to recent reports, the cost of wedding dresses—particularly bridal lehengas—has jumped by more than 50 percent over the past year. Designers and boutique owners say the prices of raw materials such as fabric, threadwork, embroidery, and finishing accessories have all gone up drastically. This increase has directly affected retail prices, leaving even well-prepared brides shocked at the checkout counter.
“I came here hoping to buy a lehenga for my wedding,” said a customer at a popular Karachi boutique. “The designs are beautiful, but the prices are out of reach. After checking a few shops, I’ve decided to rent my bridal dress instead.”
Shopkeepers agree that demand for bridal wear remains high, but the rising cost of production has made it nearly impossible to keep prices stable. “The cost of materials has almost doubled,” explained one vendor. “From fabric to embroidery work, everything has become expensive. The average price of a decent bridal lehenga now ranges between Rs40,000 and Rs60,000, while designer pieces easily cross Rs100,000.”
The impact of inflation has extended beyond brides alone. Wedding planners, photographers, and even makeup artists report that many clients are cutting corners or seeking budget-friendly alternatives. Rental boutiques are experiencing a sudden boom, with brides opting for pre-loved or shared designer dresses to manage costs without compromising on style.
Fashion analysts say the trend reflects a larger economic reality. “People still want to celebrate weddings in style, but their purchasing power has dropped,” said a fashion consultant. “Bridal fashion is evolving toward smarter, affordable choices—rentals, minimal designs, and sustainable fabrics are now gaining attention.”
Despite the financial challenges, many brides are finding creative ways to make their big day special—mixing traditional looks with modern, cost-effective ideas. But for countless others, the soaring prices have truly turned wedding dreams into burdens, forcing them to settle for less than what they once imagined.
