Rewearing Bridesmaid Dresses: Worth It Or Not?

Bridesmaids' dresses are often expensive, so it's understandable that you might want to rewear them. However, it's not always easy to find another occasion to wear them. While some bridesmaids' dresses are versatile and can be dressed up or down, others are too formal or flashy for everyday wear. Luckily, there are ways to restyle these outfits to give them a second life.

Rewearing bridesmaids dresses to another wedding

Bridesmaids' dresses are often expensive, so it's understandable if you want to rewear yours to another wedding. But is it acceptable to do so?

The consensus is that it's generally fine to rewear a bridesmaid's dress to another wedding, as long as you follow some basic etiquette. Firstly, check the wedding colours and avoid wearing the same colour as the bridesmaids at the new wedding. You don't want to risk upstaging the bridal party or drawing attention away from them. It's also important to ensure that your dress suits the season and the dress code of the wedding. A floor-length, detailed gown might be better suited to a nighttime winter wedding, while a simple, flowy dress could be perfect for an outdoor summer celebration.

If you're worried about looking like a bridesmaid at the new wedding, there are several ways to restyle your dress. Consider adding different accessories, such as a belt, statement jewellery, or a scarf. Layering is also a great way to change up the look; instead of a jacket or cardigan, try a pullover sweater or a button-up blouse knotted at the waist. You can also alter the dress by hemming it to a different length or changing the straps. Dyeing the dress a different colour or creating a fun ombre effect is another option to give your dress a new lease of life.

So, if you have a bridesmaid's dress sitting in your closet, don't be afraid to give it another wear. With a little creativity, you can turn it into a stylish and appropriate outfit for another wedding.

How to restyle a bridesmaid dress

There are many ways to restyle a bridesmaid dress and give it a new lease of life. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Accessories

Adding accessories is a simple way to transform your bridesmaid dress. Try a belt, a casual jacket, a structured blazer, statement jewellery, or a scarf. Layering is key, so try a denim or leather jacket, cardigan, or shawl. For a more casual look, pair your dress with sandals and a jean jacket. For a fun twist, add a hat and some subtle jewellery.

Footwear

Footwear can also change the look and feel of your dress. For a casual look, wear flat shoes or sandals. For a more formal look, add a heel or wedge.

Dyeing

If your dress is made from a natural fabric like cotton, silk, or linen, you could try dyeing it a darker colour. You can do this at home or get a professional to help.

Tailoring

A tailor can work wonders on your dress. They can adjust the length, remove the sleeves, or change the straps. You could even turn it into a strapless dress or a cute crop top and skirt.

DIY

If you're feeling creative, you could turn your dress into something else entirely. Use the fabric to make purses, pillows, doll clothing, or quilts.

Halloween

Get one more use out of your dress by wearing it for Halloween. With a little imagination, you can turn it into a beauty queen, zombie bride, or princess costume.

Formal Events

Depending on your lifestyle, you might be able to wear your dress to a holiday party, charity banquet, or gala. If you're going on a cruise, there's often a formal night, which is a perfect opportunity to restyle your bridesmaid dress.

Sell or Donate

If you can't see yourself wearing the dress again, consider selling it online or donating it to a local charity or second-hand shop. There are also organisations that accept gently-worn dresses and give them to teens who can't afford prom dresses.

Creative ways to reuse a bridesmaid dress

It's no secret that being a bridesmaid can be expensive. Between the bachelorette party, the bridal shower, and the dress, costs can quickly add up. And while you may have been told that you'll be able to re-wear your bridesmaid dress, the reality is that most people never find an occasion to do so. So, what can you do to give your bridesmaid dress a new lease of life? Here are some creative ways to reuse a bridesmaid dress:

Rewear with Different Accessories

Adding a few well-chosen accessories can completely transform the look of your bridesmaid dress. Try pairing it with a belt, a casual jacket, a structured blazer, statement jewellery, or even a scarf. You can also play with layers by adding a pullover sweater or a button-up blouse knotted at the waist, instantly turning your gown into a skirt.

Tailor It

Taking your dress to a tailor can open up a world of possibilities. They can alter the length, change the straps, or even remove them for a strapless look. If your dress is too big or a little tight in some spots, a tailor can help you achieve the perfect fit. You can also dye your dress a different colour or add an ombre effect for a unique look.

Halloween Costume

Let your creativity flow and turn your bridesmaid dress into a Halloween costume. With a little imagination, you can become a beauty queen, a zombie bride, or a princess. Many costumes require a dress as a base, so why not give your bridesmaid dress a fun twist?

Donate or Sell

If you're not interested in rewearing your dress, consider donating it to a local charity or second-hand shop. Your dress could become someone else's dream prom dress or formal event ensemble. Alternatively, you can sell your dress online on sites like ThredUp, Poshmark, or Mercari. This way, you can recoup some of the costs while giving your dress a new life.

DIY Projects

For those with a creative flair, your bridesmaid dress can become the raw material for various DIY projects. Use the fabric to craft purses, pillows, doll clothing, quilts, or anything else your heart desires. This way, you can cherish the memories associated with the dress while giving it a new purpose.

Occasions to rewear a bridesmaid dress

Although it's often said that bridesmaids will be able to re-wear their dresses after the wedding, the reality is that this rarely happens. However, with a little creativity, there are some occasions where you can give your bridesmaid dress a second lease of life. Here are some ideas for occasions to re-wear your bridesmaid dress:

• Formal events: Depending on your lifestyle, there may be opportunities to re-wear your bridesmaid dress to a fancy holiday party, charity banquet, or gala. Even formal nights on a cruise can be a great chance to re-wear your dress.
• Weddings: If your bridesmaid dress is non-traditional (i.e. not floor-length chiffon, sequins, or satin), it may be easier to re-wear to another wedding. However, even some traditional gowns can work at formal nuptials as long as you don't match the colour palette.
• Cocktail parties: Classic black, navy, or gold gowns can be perfect for cocktail parties or other fancy parties.
• Halloween: Transform your bridesmaid dress into a Halloween costume. For example, you could be a beauty queen, zombie bride, or princess.
• Prom: If you have a teenage girl in your life, see if she'd like to wear your dress to her prom. With the right accessories and maybe a little tailoring, she can make the look her own.
• Play dress-up: Let a little girl in your life, such as your niece, cousin, or daughter, play dress-up with your bridesmaid gown. You may want to have the dress resized for a better fit.

If you're unable or unwilling to re-wear your bridesmaid dress, you can also consider upcycling it into something new, such as purses, pillows, doll clothing, or quilts. Alternatively, you can sell or donate your dress to someone who will get more use out of it.

Tips for choosing bridesmaid dresses

The process of choosing bridesmaid dresses can be challenging, but keeping a few key considerations in mind can help ensure that everyone is happy with the final selection. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect bridesmaid dresses for your big day:

• Consider your wedding dress style: Choose bridesmaid dresses that complement your wedding dress. If your wedding dress is vintage-inspired, for example, modern silhouettes might not be the best choice for your bridesmaids. Instead, opt for dresses with a classic or vintage feel. Similarly, if your wedding dress has a particular colour or print, consider choosing bridesmaid dresses that incorporate similar elements without being too matchy-matchy.
• Keep the formality consistent: Ensure that the bridesmaid dresses match the formality of your wedding gown. For instance, if you're wearing a ball gown, your bridesmaids should also wear formal, full-length dresses. On the other hand, if your wedding is in a cooler climate, opt for dresses with sleeves to ensure your bridesmaids stay warm.
• Flatter their figures: Take into account the different body shapes and preferences of your bridesmaids. Avoid silhouettes that your bridesmaids typically avoid, such as crop tops or super-fitted styles. If your bridesmaids have varying body types, consider choosing a colour or colour range and allowing them to select their own dresses.
• Mismatched can be a good thing: Mismatched bridesmaid dresses are a popular trend and can help each member of your bridal party feel comfortable and confident. You can provide guidelines such as colour and fabric to ensure a cohesive look while still allowing your bridesmaids to express their unique personalities.
• Accessories are key: Accessories can help tie together the look of your bridal party. Consider providing your bridesmaids with pashminas, stoles, or bouquets in colours that complement their dresses and your wedding colour scheme.
• Be mindful of the venue: The venue can also influence your choice of bridesmaid dresses. For a seaside wedding, opt for breathable fabrics and avoid heavy frocks. If your wedding is on uneven terrain, encourage your bridesmaids to wear block heels, wedges, or flats for added stability.
• Let them accessorise: Instead of insisting on identical jewellery, allow your bridesmaids to choose their own accessories. This will give your bridal party a modern vibe and let each person's unique personality shine through.
• Don't dictate footwear: Avoid the additional expense of insisting on matching shoes for your bridesmaids. Most people already own a pair of black or metallic shoes that can be reused, and comfortable shoes will make for blister-free dancing.

Frequently asked questions