igh style comes with a high price tag... unless you shop the Semi-Homemade® way. My secret: I bought a simple off-the-rack dress and customized it to fit my personality. My dress only cost $800, but it looked like a million bucks. Best of all, it’s truly a one-of-a-kind creation, sure to become a cherished family heirloom.

Designing the dress of your dreams is simple. Shop retail stores, sample sales or vintage shops to find a plain gown in a style you like, then creatively embellish it to make a gown that’s uniquely you. Here are four lovely looks to try on for size.

Easy Elegance. Overwhelm them with understatement in a strapless white gown that’s unforgettably elegant. Trim with appliqués around the bodice or a satin or grosgrain ribbon at the waist. For subtle shimmer, sew on a sprinkling of seed pearls or miniature crystals, or take a clean makeup brush and dust iridescent glitter all over the gown. You’ll look positively radiant!

Vintage Victorian. Lace was once reserved for royalty, because it was so expensive to make. A lacey gown still looks ravishingly regal. To add old-world romance to any wedding, buy a simple sheath and have a seamstress sew a lace overlay to fit on top. It’s the perfect look for second-time brides – just pair a pastel gown with a creamy lace overlay for a trendy two-piece ensemble.

Fabulously Feminine. Modern day princesses will look charming in a gown that showcases the feminine form. Select a sensual design – a strapless bodice, cinched waist and bustier back – then add alluring accents, such as silk flower garlands sewn to the bodice to make dreamy drop sleeves. For extra dazzle, substitute strands of pearls, rhinestones or crystals for the flowers.

Daringly Dramatic. It’s your wedding day; all eyes should be on you – and they will be, with a high wattage gown amped with a splash of red. Crimson silk roses and dainty rose petals dance dramatically down the bustle, upping the “wow” factor as you glide glamorously down the aisle. Match the blossoms on your gown to those in your bouquet for a look that’s definitely high impact.