Franklin Dean
There are many options available for selling your old wedding dress. You can sell it online on websites such as Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, SellMyWeddingDress.org, Poshmark, eBay, Mercari, or Facebook Marketplace. You can also sell it to a consignment shop, which will then sell it on your behalf. Before selling your wedding dress, you should ensure that it is in the best condition possible. You should also be aware that most online marketplaces and consignment shops have limits on how old a dress can be for it to be included in their stock.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online marketplaces | Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, Kleinfeld Again, eBay, Poshmark, SellMyWeddingDress.org, Facebook Marketplace, Instagram |
| Pricing | 40-60% of the original retail price, depending on the condition, alterations, and demand |
| Timing | Peak planning seasons (January to March) and after major holidays are ideal |
| Preparation | Professional cleaning, high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, original tags, receipts, certificates of authenticity, and documentation of alterations |
| Fees | Some platforms charge listing fees or transaction fees; consider consignment shops for a hands-off approach |
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What You'll Learn
Online marketplaces: Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, eBay, Poshmark, etc
There are several online marketplaces where you can sell your old wedding dress. Here are some popular options:
Stillwhite
Stillwhite is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses. It offers a wide range of designer wedding dresses at affordable prices. You can list your dress for a small one-off fee, and you get to choose the selling price. Stillwhite does not charge any commission or monthly fees, but typical transaction fees apply for PayPal payments. You can communicate directly with buyers through the platform, keeping your contact details private. The platform also provides fraud monitoring and secure online payment options.
Nearly Newlywed
Nearly Newlywed is an innovative marketplace that makes selling used wedding dresses seamless. They charge a $20 listing fee, and once your dress is sold, you earn 70% of the final price. Nearly Newlywed handles all buyer interactions and shipping, saving sellers time and stress. They also sell wedding-related jewellery and accessories. The authentication process ensures buyers purchase authentic dresses.
EBay
EBay is a well-known online marketplace that allows you to sell a range of items, including wedding dresses. You can list your dress for free and set your price. However, it's important to note that eBay does not handle payments, guarantee transactions, or offer buyer protection.
Poshmark
Poshmark is a marketplace for second-hand fashion, beauty, and home decor, including a smaller selection of wedding dresses. There are no listing fees, and the process is simple: you take photos, write a description, and list your dress. For sales of $15 or more, you keep 80%, and buyers cover shipping costs. However, the lack of an authentication process may be a concern for buyers.
These online marketplaces provide convenient options for selling your old wedding dress, each with its own features, fees, and processes. Choose the one that best suits your preferences and requirements.
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Local consignment shops
One such store is Blue Sky Bridal, with locations in Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco. They accept brand new, floor samples, and previously worn dry-cleaned wedding dresses. They do all the work for you and send you 50% of the final sale price once your dress sells. There are no upfront or listing fees, making it an inexpensive and proven way to resell your wedding dress.
Another option is Consignment Bridal & Prom LLC in North Andover, MA. They provide a platform for consigning new and once-loved dresses, offering a circular economy for bridal and formal wear. Their experienced and friendly staff will ensure you receive personalized service and help you feel confident and beautiful.
Songbirds Bridal, Formal, and Consignments is yet another option, with two boutiques in one. They carry a wide range of new and gently used items, including wedding gowns, and offer amazing deals on consigned items. To sell your wedding dress through them, you will need to make an appointment and ensure your dress is less than 5 years old, in mint condition, and odor/stain-free.
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Social media: Facebook Marketplace, Instagram
Facebook Marketplace and Instagram are both great options for selling your wedding dress online. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is a popular platform for selling wedding dresses. To get started, create a listing with detailed information about your dress, including the designer, size, style, silhouette, fabric, and condition. Be sure to include clear photos from multiple angles, including close-ups of any unique details or alterations. You can also include measurements and sizing information, as well as a size chart from the designer for reference. If you have photos of yourself in the dress, it's a good idea to edit out your face and anyone else's for privacy.
When setting a price, you can use sites like Stillwhite as a reference. You can also consider upgrading your listing on Facebook Marketplace for a small fee to promote your dress and make it stand out.
As a seller, you can decide how you want to handle try-ons. Some sellers allow buyers to try on the dress at their home, while others prefer to meet in a public place or at a department store with a dressing room. It's essential to communicate your preferences clearly to potential buyers.
Instagram is another visual platform that can be used to sell your wedding dress. Create an Instagram post or reel showcasing your dress with clear photos and videos that highlight its movement and sparkle. In your caption, be sure to include SEO-friendly keywords related to selling wedding dresses, such as "wedding gown sell" or "selling bridal dresses."
In your caption or through Instagram's story feature, you can also share the story behind your dress, as buyers often appreciate a personal touch. You can even create a series of posts or reels to showcase different aspects of your dress and provide additional details.
General Tips for Social Media Sales
When selling on social media, timing can be crucial. Consider listing your dress during peak planning seasons, typically from January to March, or right after major holidays to capitalise on post-holiday engagements. Additionally, maintain your dress's condition by storing it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and use acid-free tissue paper and a breathable garment bag. This will help ensure your dress remains in good shape and can fetch a higher price.
Lastly, don't forget to research similar dresses on platforms to set a competitive price. Generally, you can expect to receive 40-60% of the original retail price, depending on the dress's condition, designer, and current trends.
Happy selling, and may your dress find a new owner who will cherish it as much as you did!
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Timing: sell during peak planning seasons
If you're looking to sell your old wedding dress, timing is crucial. While there are brides-to-be shopping for their dream dresses all year round, there are certain peak planning seasons when demand is higher. Knowing when these peak seasons occur can increase your chances of making a sale.
One of the peak seasons for wedding dress shopping is January. It is the perfect time to beat the winter blues by trying on gorgeous wedding dresses. It is also peak engagement season, with many new brides-to-be flooding the market. January often brings new runway collections and the potential for slashed prices, making it a popular time for wedding dress shopping. If you're looking to sell your dress, listing it during this time can increase your chances of finding a buyer.
Another peak season for wedding dress shopping is between 8 and 10 months before the wedding. This is when most brides-to-be start looking for their dream dress and making purchases. It allows enough time for dress production and shipping, which can take up to several months. Listing your dress during this time frame can help you catch the attention of brides-to-be who are actively searching for their perfect gown.
Additionally, there are certain months when brides are more likely to be looking for discounted options. These are typically the slower months for bridal shops, like March or April. By listing your dress during these months, you may attract buyers who are specifically seeking more affordable options or looking to take advantage of clearance sales.
While the peak planning seasons provide a great opportunity to sell your wedding dress, it's important to keep in mind that there is a constant demand for wedding dresses throughout the year. Brides-to-be are always on the lookout for their dream dress, so don't feel limited to selling only during these peak seasons.
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Cleaning and maintenance: professional cleaning, storage, photos
Cleaning and Maintenance
Professional Cleaning
Professional cleaning is essential to prepare your wedding dress for storage and maintain its pristine condition. Untreated stains, such as sweat, dirt, and oils, can cause discolouration and fabric decay over time. Trusted bridal dry cleaners specialise in removing stains and preserving delicate fabrics. They employ techniques like dry cleaning and hand washing with mild detergents, depending on the fabric type. Satin, for instance, can be dry-cleaned or hand-washed in cold water, while fabrics like chiffon and organza require dry cleaning only.
Storage
Proper storage is critical to preserving your wedding dress. Avoid plastic bags, dress covers, cardboard boxes, and cedar chests, as these can trap moisture, harbour bugs, and produce acidic gases that damage the dress. Instead, opt for a breathable garment bag or box specifically designed for wedding dress storage. Acid-free tissue paper is recommended to wrap the dress, preventing any snagging or scratching of delicate embellishments. The paper also helps cushion and protect the dress during storage.
When folding the dress, do so loosely to avoid creasing and sharp folds, especially in delicate areas. Store the dress in a cool, dark place, such as a closet or under the bed, to avoid sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Regularly inspect the dress every six months to check for any damage or pests and refold it to prevent permanent creases.
Photos
While not directly related to cleaning and maintenance, taking photos and videos of your wedding dress can be an essential step in the selling process. High-quality visuals showcase the dress's movement, sparkle, and overall appeal, attracting potential buyers and increasing the chances of a successful sale.
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Frequently asked questions
You can sell your old wedding dress on online marketplaces such as eBay, Poshmark, Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, and SellMyWeddingDress.org. You can also sell your dress on social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Instagram. If you prefer to sell your dress in person, you can look for local consignment shops that specialize in bridal wear.
The amount of money you can get for your old wedding dress depends on factors such as the original price, the condition of the dress, and any customizations. In general, you can expect to get 40-60% of the original retail price. If you sell your dress on certain websites, you may only receive 50-70% of the final sale price, as the website will take a cut.
To maximize the resale value of your wedding dress, clean the dress professionally and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You should also use acid-free tissue paper and a breathable garment bag for storage. Keep all original tags, receipts, and certificates of authenticity, and document any alterations made to the dress. When creating your listing, take high-quality photos from multiple angles, including close-ups of details, and include as much relevant information as possible.
The bridal industry has seasons, so timing can significantly impact your success in selling your dress. It is best to list your wedding gown during peak planning seasons, typically from January to March, and to capitalize on post-holiday engagements by listing right after major holidays.
Yes, there are risks associated with selling your old wedding dress online. For example, you may not receive payment from the buyer, or they may dispute the transaction after you have shipped the dress. It is important to be cautious and only use reputable websites to minimize these risks.
