What to Do With Old Wedding Dress

Table of Contents

Selling Your Wedding Dress: What To Do With Old Wedding Dress

What to do with old wedding dress – Selling your wedding dress can be a great way to recoup some of the costs associated with your big day. Several online marketplaces cater specifically to brides looking to sell their gowns, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Effective photography and a compelling description are crucial for attracting potential buyers and achieving a fair price.

Online Marketplaces for Wedding Dresses

Several platforms facilitate the sale of pre-owned wedding dresses. Consider these popular options:

Stillwhite: A dedicated marketplace for pre-owned wedding dresses, boasting a large user base and buyer protection features. Pros: Large audience, secure transactions. Cons: Listing fees may apply.
PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com: Another specialized platform with a focus on used wedding gowns. Pros: Wide selection of dresses. Cons: Seller fees and potential competition.
eBay: A general online marketplace that also hosts a significant number of wedding dress listings. Pros: Huge reach. Cons: Higher competition and potentially less specialized buyer base.
Facebook Marketplace/Poshmark: These platforms offer a broader reach but may require more effort in targeting the right audience. Pros: Wide audience reach. Cons: Higher competition and less targeted buyer pool.

Photographing Your Wedding Dress for Online Sale

High-quality photographs are essential for showcasing your dress effectively. Follow these steps:

Clean the Dress: Ensure your dress is clean, pressed, and free of wrinkles. Steam cleaning is highly recommended.
Choose the Right Background: Use a neutral, uncluttered background (e.g., a plain white sheet or wall) to avoid distractions.
Use Good Lighting: Natural, soft lighting is ideal. Avoid harsh shadows. Consider using a diffuser to soften the light.
Capture Multiple Angles: Take photos from various angles (front, back, sides, details) to showcase the dress fully.
Professional Editing (Optional): Consider using photo editing software to enhance the images (adjust brightness, contrast, and sharpness) but avoid over-editing.

Writing a Compelling Product Description

Your description should accurately reflect the dress’s condition and features while highlighting its selling points. Include details such as:

Designer and Style: Specify the designer (if known) and the style of the dress (e.g., A-line, ballgown, mermaid).
Size and Measurements: Provide accurate measurements (bust, waist, hips, length) to help potential buyers determine if it will fit.
Condition: Be honest and transparent about the dress’s condition. Note any flaws or alterations.
Fabric and Details: Describe the fabric (e.g., lace, satin, tulle) and any embellishments (e.g., beading, sequins).
Cleaning and Preservation: Mention whether the dress has been professionally cleaned and preserved.

Sample Listing: Stunning Maggie Sottero A-line wedding dress, size
8. Ivory lace with delicate beading. Excellent condition, professionally cleaned. Minor alterations were made to the length. Measurements: Bust 36″, Waist 28″, Hips 38″, Length 60″.

Setting a Fair Price

Pricing your dress competitively involves considering several factors:

Original Price: Consider the original cost of the dress as a starting point.
Condition: A pristine dress will command a higher price than one with visible flaws.
Designer and Brand: Well-known designers generally fetch higher prices.
Style and Popularity: Trending styles often sell faster and potentially for a higher price.
Market Research: Check similar listings on the chosen platform to gauge current market prices.

Donating Your Wedding Dress

Donating your wedding dress is a charitable act that allows another bride to experience the joy of wearing a beautiful gown, while also providing support for a worthy cause. Several organizations gladly accept wedding dress donations. Understanding the donation process and potential tax implications is crucial.

Reputable Charities Accepting Wedding Dress Donations

Numerous charities accept wedding dress donations, often reselling them to raise funds or providing them to brides in need. Examples include:

Brides Against Breast Cancer: This organization accepts wedding dress donations and uses the proceeds to support breast cancer research and awareness.
Local Bridal Shops: Some bridal shops partner with charities or have their own donation programs.
Dress for Success: While not exclusively for wedding dresses, they accept professional attire, and a wedding dress could potentially be suitable if it’s a more conservative style.
Women’s Shelters: Some women’s shelters may accept wedding dresses for brides escaping domestic violence.

Donating Your Wedding Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Clean the Dress: Professionally clean the dress to ensure it is in the best possible condition.
Package the Dress: Place the dress in a clean garment bag or protective box.
Contact the Charity: Contact the chosen charity to inquire about their donation process and requirements.
Arrange Drop-off or Shipping: Arrange for the delivery of the dress according to the charity’s instructions.
Obtain a Donation Receipt: Request a donation receipt for tax purposes.

Tax Implications of Donating a Wedding Dress

In many countries, you can deduct the fair market value of your donated wedding dress on your taxes. Obtain a written donation receipt from the charity, detailing the dress’s fair market value and the date of donation. Consult a tax professional for specific guidance related to your location and tax laws.

Comparing Donation Options, What to do with old wedding dress

Different charities have varying missions and acceptance criteria. Research carefully to ensure your donation aligns with your values. Consider factors such as the organization’s reputation, transparency, and the impact of your donation.

Repurposing Your Wedding Dress

Giving your wedding dress a new life through repurposing is a creative and sustainable option. Transforming it into other garments or items allows you to cherish the memories associated with your wedding while minimizing waste. Careful deconstruction and planning are key to successful repurposing.

Repurposing Ideas

Here are three ideas for repurposing your wedding dress:

Christening Gown: The delicate lace or fabric of your wedding dress can be beautifully repurposed into a christening gown for a future child or grandchild. Consider using the bodice for the main body of the gown and repurposing the skirt for a delicate overlay.
Handbag: The structured bodice or a section of the skirt can be transformed into a unique and elegant handbag. Line it with a contrasting fabric for durability and functionality.
Quilt: Cut the dress into squares or rectangles and combine them with other fabrics to create a beautiful and sentimental quilt. This is a perfect way to incorporate other meaningful fabrics from your wedding day, such as tablecloths or linens.

Deconstructing a Wedding Dress

Assess the Dress: Carefully examine the dress to identify seams, embellishments, and delicate areas.
Gather Supplies: Assemble the necessary tools (seam ripper, scissors, pins, etc.).
Start with the Seams: Begin by carefully removing seams, using a seam ripper to avoid damaging the fabric.
Handle Embellishments Carefully: Remove embellishments (beads, sequins, etc.) with tweezers or a needle to prevent damage.
Work Slowly and Methodically: Take your time to avoid accidental cuts or tears.

Tools and Materials

Seam Ripper: For carefully removing seams.
Sharp Scissors: For cutting fabric.
Pins: For holding fabric in place.
Needle and Thread: For sewing new seams or attaching embellishments.
Measuring Tape: For taking accurate measurements.
Pattern Paper (if making a new garment): For creating patterns.
Sewing Machine (optional): For faster and more efficient sewing.

Creative Challenges and Solutions

Repurposing a wedding dress can present challenges, such as working with delicate fabrics or intricate embellishments. Patience and creativity are key. If you encounter difficulties, consider seeking guidance from a seamstress or experienced crafter.

Wondering what to do with your old wedding dress? Many brides choose to preserve their gown, but if that’s not your style, consider other options. Perhaps you could repurpose the fabric, or if it’s a classic style like some of the beautiful cream colored wedding dresses you see online, you might find a buyer interested in a pre-loved treasure.

Ultimately, the best approach depends on the dress’s condition and your personal preference; donation is always a thoughtful alternative.

Storing Your Wedding Dress

Proper cleaning and storage are crucial for preserving your wedding dress for years to come. Choosing the right storage method and location will help protect it from damage and maintain its pristine condition. Careful handling and attention to detail are essential for long-term preservation.

Cleaning and Preserving Your Wedding Dress

Before storing, have your dress professionally cleaned by a reputable cleaner specializing in wedding gowns. This removes dirt, stains, and any potential damage from spills or other substances. Avoid attempting to clean it yourself, as this could damage the delicate fabric.

Storage Solutions

Method	Pros	Cons	Cost
Acid-Free Box	Provides excellent protection from light, dust, and pests.	Can be bulky and less breathable than garment bags.	Moderate
Garment Bag	Breathable and allows for easy viewing of the dress.	Offers less protection from pests and environmental factors than a box.	Low
Museum-Quality Storage	Offers the highest level of protection against all forms of damage.	Expensive.	High
Vacuum-Sealed Bag	Saves space, protects from dust and moisture.	Can potentially damage delicate fabrics if not used correctly.	Low

Choosing a Storage Location

Source: xogrp.com

Store your dress in a cool, dry, and dark place with climate control to prevent damage from humidity, temperature fluctuations, and light exposure. Avoid attics, basements, or areas prone to moisture or pests.

Folding or Hanging

Ideally, hang your dress using a padded hanger to prevent shoulder indentations. If folding is necessary, fold it loosely to prevent creasing. Use acid-free tissue paper to separate layers and protect delicate embellishments.

Transforming Your Wedding Dress into Keepsakes

Transforming your wedding dress into smaller keepsakes allows you to preserve cherished memories and create unique mementos. This is a sentimental process that allows you to keep a tangible piece of your special day close to your heart. Various techniques can be used to preserve these small pieces of fabric.

Keepsake Ideas

Source: wedding-experience.com

Handkerchiefs: Cut squares of fabric to create elegant handkerchiefs, perfect for special occasions or as gifts to loved ones.
Jewelry: Incorporate small pieces of lace or fabric into custom-made jewelry, such as pendants or earrings.
Keepsake Box: Use fabric scraps to line a small box to store other wedding mementos, like photos or dried flowers.

Preserving Small Fabric Pieces

To preserve small pieces of fabric, carefully clean them before storing them in acid-free archival-quality envelopes or boxes. Avoid direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Sentimental Value

The sentimental value of transforming your wedding dress into keepsakes is immense. It allows you to connect with the emotions and memories of your wedding day in a unique and personal way. This process can be both fulfilling and emotionally rewarding.

List of Keepsake Ideas and Materials

Handkerchiefs: Wedding dress fabric, scissors, sewing machine (optional).
Jewelry: Wedding dress fabric, jewelry findings (beads, pendants, etc.), jewelry-making tools.
Keepsake Box: Wedding dress fabric, small box, adhesive.

Expert Answers

Can I sell my wedding dress if it’s slightly damaged?

Yes, but be upfront about any imperfections in your listing. Honest descriptions attract buyers who understand the condition and are willing to accept it.

What if I can’t find a charity that accepts wedding dresses?

Consider contacting local theaters or costume shops; they may be interested in using it for productions.

How long should I store my wedding dress before deciding what to do with it?

There’s no set timeframe. Allow yourself time to process the emotions associated with the dress before making a decision. Some find it helpful to wait a year or more.

Are there any legal considerations when selling a wedding dress?

Ensure you comply with any relevant tax laws regarding the sale of used goods. If selling online, familiarize yourself with the platform’s seller protection policies.