what to do with used wedding dress

2 min read 27-12-2024

Your wedding day is over, the photos are developed, and you're left with a stunning—but now used—wedding dress. What do you do with it? Don't let it gather dust in the back of your closet! There are many creative and meaningful ways to repurpose this special garment. This guide explores various options, from sentimental keepsakes to charitable donations, helping you decide what's best for your beloved dress.

Sentimental Keepsakes: Cherishing the Memories

For many brides, the wedding dress holds immense sentimental value. These options allow you to keep your dress close, transforming it into a lasting reminder of your special day.

Create Heirlooms:

For your daughter (or future generations): Many brides dream of passing their dress down. Proper storage is key; consider professional preservation services.
Wedding quilt: Commission a talented seamstress to transform the fabric into a beautiful, personalized quilt. This is a wonderful way to incorporate other sentimental items from the wedding, such as linens or flowers.
Keepsake pillow: Smaller pieces of fabric can be repurposed into a beautiful keepsake pillow—a lovely memory for your bedside table.

Preserve Your Dress:

Professional preservation: This process cleans, repairs, and carefully stores your dress in an acid-free box, protecting it from damage for years. It's an investment, but it ensures your dress remains pristine.
DIY preservation: If you opt for a DIY approach, meticulous cleaning and storage in a breathable garment bag are essential. Research proper techniques thoroughly to avoid damaging the delicate fabric.

Giving Back: Sharing the Joy

Sharing your dress with others is a beautiful way to give back and allow another bride to experience the magic.

Donate Your Dress:

Bridal charities: Organizations like Brides Against Breast Cancer accept wedding dress donations to raise funds and support those battling the disease.
Local charities: Check with local women's shelters or charities that assist low-income brides. Your dress could make a significant difference.
Consignment shops: Many consignment shops specialize in selling used wedding dresses, allowing you to recoup some of your investment.

Sell Your Dress:

Online marketplaces: Platforms like Stillwhite, OnceWed, and PreOwnedWeddingDresses offer a dedicated space for selling pre-owned gowns.
Consignment shops: Consignment shops often provide professional photographs and marketing to help sell your dress.

Creative Repurposing: Beyond Tradition

Let your creativity shine! There are many unique ways to reuse your wedding dress fabric.

Transform the Fabric:

New clothing: Transform the fabric into a beautiful christening gown, bridesmaid dress, or other items of clothing. Consult with a seamstress to explore the possibilities.
Home décor: Use the fabric for throw pillows, curtains, or other decorative items to add a touch of elegance to your home.
Keepsake boxes: Turn sections of the fabric into beautiful, custom-made keepsake boxes for storing cherished wedding mementos.

Remember to act quickly!

Don't delay: The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to clean and preserve your dress for any of these options. The sooner you plan for your dress's future, the easier it will be to make the perfect decision for you.

Choosing the Right Path: Your Wedding Dress, Your Decision

Ultimately, the best way to deal with your used wedding dress depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Consider the sentimental value, your budget, and the time you have available. Whether you choose to preserve it, donate it, sell it, or repurpose it creatively, remember that your wedding dress is a symbol of a significant moment in your life. Make a decision that feels right for you, allowing you to cherish the memories or pass the joy onto others.