What factors determine the final cost of your dress

We've dissected this gorgeous couture dress to give you the details on just how much work goes into creating your dream wedding gown. Want to see more couture styles? Go to TheKnot.com/gownshopping.

$15,000 (same price tag treatment)

While you might feel overwhelmed the first time you check out the price tag (gulp) on a wedding dress, remember that this is the single most memorable piece of clothing you'll ever wear. In other words, don't fret because you've never spent this much money on your clothes before! This is one of the times it's okay to splurge, so keep an open mind and a relaxed budget while we show you why your wedding gown is worth every penny.

Hand embellishment
It takes 10 days, 20 people and more than 2,400 hours to embroider the gown's 66,360 crystals and beads.

Stay-put structure
The bustier is fused, molded and contoured to improve comfort and fit, which takes about three hours from start to finish. Ladies, this is what holds your gown (and "the girls") in place while you're moving and shaking on the dance floor.

Luxurious lining
Sure, no one sees it, but you'll certainly feel the difference of pure silk taffeta lining on your skin. Just don't get too cozy, like it or not, you're going to have to take it off eventually.

Rich fabric
From the top of the gown to the tip of the train, there are 16 yards of double-faced silk satin. That's enough fabric to reupholster an entire sofa.

Attention to detail
Extra-strength invisible zippers are brought in from the Far East to bear the weight of the ball gown and help prevent slipping. This means no more tugging!

Machine stitch work
Once all the pieces are created, it still takes 18 hours of machine work to assemble this Platinum for Priscilla of Boston couture gown.