Lyla Dejesus
There are various reasons why people sell their wedding dresses. Some people sell their dresses due to financial reasons, while others may sell them because they no longer have a use for the dress and would rather someone else get use out of it. Some people may also sell their wedding dresses because they do not have the space to store them. There are many online marketplaces and consignment shops that people can use to sell their wedding dresses, such as eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, and Mercari.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for selling | Sentimentality, storage, wearability |
| Factors to consider before selling | Condition, designer, age, demand |
| Online marketplaces | Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, eBay, Vestiare Collective, Kleinfeld, Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, Mercari, The RealReal |
| Local options | Bridal resale shops, consignment salons, thrift stores, charity shops |
| Tips | Professional cleaning, clear photos and videos, low starting price |
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What You'll Learn
Pros and cons of selling your wedding dress
There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to sell your wedding dress. One of the main pros of selling your wedding dress is financial. Given the ever-growing popularity of resale, it is no surprise that thousands of brides are choosing to sell their bridal gowns after their big day. Brides can expect to make back up to "60 or even 70% of the retail price". This can be especially beneficial if your dress is from a popular designer, as these gowns can make closer to 60% of their retail value.
Another benefit of selling your wedding dress is that it gives the dress a second life and prevents it from sitting in a garment bag forever. This can be especially important if you are not planning on passing the dress down to your child and do not have the closet space to store it.
On the other hand, one of the main cons of selling your wedding dress is the sentimentality associated with it. Many people place their gown in storage for years, hoping to pass it down to their child one day. If this is something you see in your future, then selling your dress may not be the best idea.
Another con of selling your wedding dress is the time and effort involved in the process. To get the best price, it is important to ensure that your dress is in pristine condition. This may involve having it professionally cleaned and properly stored, which can be costly and time-consuming. Additionally, when selling online, it is important to have high-quality photographs and videos of the dress, which can also take time and effort to produce.
Overall, the decision to sell your wedding dress depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you are not attached to the dress and are looking to make some extra money, then selling it can be a great option. However, if you are hoping to pass the dress down or do not have the time or resources to prepare it for sale, then keeping it may be a better choice.
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Preparing your dress for sale
Cleaning and Repairs:
Firstly, ensure your wedding dress is in the best possible condition. Even if it appears flawless at first glance, consider having it professionally cleaned. Stains, scuffs, or other minor flaws may go unnoticed, and professional cleaners can help restore your dress to its original state. While some suggest cleaning the dress the day after the wedding, others recommend seeking a preservationist who specialises in cleaning wedding gowns. They will meticulously inspect the entire dress, ensuring no stains or damage are overlooked.
Photography and Description:
Once your dress is clean and repaired, it's time to prepare for listing. Take high-quality photographs that showcase the dress from various angles. Consider including a video to highlight its movement and sparkle. Additionally, write an engaging and detailed description, providing potential buyers with all the necessary information.
Choosing a Platform:
There are several options for selling your wedding dress, including online marketplaces, consignment shops, and bridal boutiques. Research popular wedding dress resale sites like Still White, Nearly Newlywed, eBay, and Poshmark. Each platform has its own fees, commission structures, and processes. Consider factors such as listing fees, premium listings, and authentication processes when selecting a platform.
Understanding Policies:
If you opt for a consignment shop or bridal boutique, be sure to understand their specific policies. Some shops may request exclusivity or have set rates with limited room for negotiation. Find a boutique that aligns with your goals and expectations when selling your dress.
Timing:
Keep in mind that many online marketplaces and consignment shops have age limits for the dresses they accept. Most won't accept gowns more than three to five years old, so don't delay the selling process. Additionally, be transparent about any alterations made to your dress, as some buyers may be particular about this aspect.
By following these steps, you can effectively prepare your wedding dress for sale, ensuring it finds a new owner who will cherish it as much as you did.
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Online marketplaces for wedding dresses
The internet has opened up a world of possibilities for brides-to-be, with online marketplaces offering a convenient and curated shopping experience. This is especially beneficial for those who are looking for a more modern experience, where they are not limited to the selections of a bridal stylist. Online platforms provide a wide range of options, from luxury fashion destinations to emerging designers, and can be more affordable than traditional bridal salons.
One of the most well-known bridal gown sites is Anthropologie, which offers an extensive collection of popular wedding dress designers, such as Watters, Jenny Yoo, Besa, and even their own brand, BHLDN. Anthropologie also has a range of bridal accessories, allowing shoppers to curate their entire wedding-day look. For those on a budget, Anthropologie has many options under the $1,500 mark, which is well under the average cost of a wedding dress.
Another popular online retailer is Azazie, which offers a wide range of wedding dresses for all styles and budgets, with dresses starting at $69. The site also has a “try at home" option, where you can try up to three dresses for $15 each, with shipping included.
For those looking for a bargain, The Outnet is a premier online fashion outlet that offers designer bridal wear at discounted prices. The RealReal is another great option for those wanting a pre-owned or vintage designer dress without compromising on quality.
Other online marketplaces to check out include Lulus, for on-trend wedding dresses that won't break the bank, and Stillwhite, which is the world's largest wedding dress marketplace for new, used, and sample wedding dresses.
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Local shops that buy wedding dresses
Many people sell their wedding dresses, often because they are not planning on passing the dress down to their children. Before selling your wedding dress, it is important to ensure that it is in good condition, as this will increase its resale value.
If you are looking to sell your wedding dress, there are several local shops and online platforms that you can consider. Here are some options for local shops that buy wedding dresses:
- Local bridal resale shops: You can search for bridal salons or consignment shops in your area that specialize in buying and selling used wedding dresses. These shops will often have professionals who can help you determine the resale value of your dress.
- Local consignment salons or thrift stores: If you prefer a more traditional in-person transaction, you can visit local consignment salons or thrift stores that deal with wedding dresses. They will either buy the dress directly from you or help you find a buyer.
- Traditional bridal stores: Some traditional bridal stores, such as Kleinfeld, famous for its appearance on "Say Yes to the Dress," offer services that allow brides to list their dresses for resale, even if they were not purchased at the store.
It is worth noting that selling your wedding dress to a local shop may require some research to find the right buyer and may take more time compared to online platforms. However, it can be a good option if you are not comfortable with online selling or prefer face-to-face interactions.
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What to do with your wedding dress if you don't sell it
Deciding what to do with your wedding dress is a personal choice. Many people place their gowns in storage for years, hoping to pass them down to their children to incorporate into their own weddings one day. If you don't see yourself doing this, you can sell or donate your dress.
Selling your wedding dress
If you're looking to sell your wedding dress, you can either list it online or bring it to a consignment shop. Listing your dress online gives you more control over the selling price, but it can be time-consuming as you'll have to manage your listing and negotiate terms with purchasers. Popular wedding dress resale sites include Still White, Nearly Newlywed, eBay, Vestiare Collective, and Kleinfeld. These sites charge a fee to list your dress, and some also charge a commission.
Consignment shops, on the other hand, handle the selling process for you, but they tend to have higher commission fees. If you choose this option, you can either sell your dress directly to a bridal resale shop or a local consignment salon or thrift store.
Donating your wedding dress
Donating your wedding dress is a great way to pay it forward and give your dress a second life. Organizations like Brides for a Cause accept donations, resell the dress, and use the proceeds to raise money for women-focused charities. Angel Gowns and Baby Gowns for Eternity are other organizations that turn wedding dresses into gowns for stillborn infants. You can also donate your dress to Goodwill or The Salvation Army.
Repurposing your wedding dress
If you're feeling creative, you can repurpose your wedding dress into something new. You can work with a tailor or seamstress to create a wearable garment, such as a charming mini dress or a two-piece set that you can surprise your partner with on your first anniversary. You can also repurpose your dress into décor for your home.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several online marketplaces where you can sell your wedding dress, including Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, eBay, Vestiare Collective, and Kleinfeld. You can also sell your dress through consignment shops, either online or at a local bridal salon.
This depends on the marketplace or consignment shop you use. Some platforms, such as Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, and Kleinfeld, do not charge a commission fee, meaning you keep 100% of the sale price. Other platforms, like eBay, charge a commission ranging from 9% to 15% of the total cost. Consignment shops typically give you 50% of the selling price.
The resale value of your wedding dress depends on its condition, the original retail price, and the designer. A used wedding dress in great condition that's under two years old can typically sell for 50% of its original retail price. Gowns from popular designers can sell for closer to 60% of their retail value.
To increase the chances of selling your wedding dress, make sure it is in the best condition possible. Consider having it professionally cleaned before listing it for sale. You can also try listing your dress on multiple platforms and including detailed photos and videos of the gown to showcase its beauty and condition.
