Deborah Chan
Hanging a wedding dress before the big day is an important step in the wedding planning process. Wedding dresses are often heavy, and storing them incorrectly can lead to stretching and damage. To keep the dress in pristine condition, it is recommended to store it flat, wrapped in a breathable cloth bag or cotton sheet, in a safe and climate-controlled area. If hanging is necessary, it is best to use a large garment bag and hang the dress by its inner straps, which are typically found near the underarms or waist, to distribute the weight evenly. A few days before the wedding, the dress can be hung up high to let wrinkles drop out, and a local seamstress or dry cleaner can help with any remaining creases. Proper storage and hanging techniques will ensure the wedding dress is well-maintained and ready for the big day.
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What You'll Learn
Consider the weight of the dress
The weight of your wedding dress is an important consideration when deciding how to hang it before the big day. Wedding dresses are typically heavy pieces of clothing, and the weight of the dress can impact how it is stored. If your dress is particularly heavy, it may be best to store it flat, inside a breathable garment bag or wrapped in a cotton sheet. This will help to prevent the weight of the dress from causing damage while it is being stored.
The fabric of your wedding dress will also impact its weight. For example, velvet is a thick fabric that is better suited for colder months when a heavy gown is more manageable. Faille, a fabric usually woven from cotton, silk, or rayon, tends to hold more weight. Similarly, heavier types of silk or silk blends, like dupioni, gazar, mikado, and moire, will contribute to the overall weight of the dress.
Embellishments, such as beading, crystals, and sequins, can also add significant weight to a wedding dress. If your dress has a lot of intricate detailing, consider using a second hanger to help distribute the weight. Alternatively, you can scoop the train onto the second hanger to ensure it doesn't touch the floor.
The style of your wedding dress will also influence its weight. A grand ball gown, for instance, will typically be heavier due to the large volume of fabric required. A long train can also add to the weight of the dress, so opting for shorter or lightweight fabric trains can make a difference.
In summary, when considering how to hang your wedding dress, it is important to take into account the weight of the dress, the fabric, any embellishments, and the style. By assessing these factors, you can ensure that your dress is stored and hung correctly, preventing any damage and ensuring it is in perfect condition for your wedding day.
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Remove plastic wrapping
It is important to remove the plastic wrapping from your wedding dress before hanging it up. Plastic wrapping does not allow the fabric to breathe and may cause staining. It is best to remove the plastic and hang the dress in a cloth garment bag or wrap it in a plain cotton sheet.
If you are travelling with your dress, it is fine to keep it in its plastic garment bag. However, if you are storing your dress for longer than a few days, it is best to remove the plastic wrapping. You can then hang the dress in a spare closet, ensuring it is not crowded amongst coats or other items that could cause damage.
If your dress is particularly heavy, with lots of layers and beadwork, you may need to dedicate a room to storing it. Hang the dress high so that it is not touching the floor or walls. A strong plant hanger is a good option, and if your dress has a long train, you can stretch it out over a high-backed chair to prevent wrinkles.
If your dress is extremely heavy, you may want to lay it flat and store it in a garment bag on top of a bed. In this case, you should begin to air it out about 36 hours before the ceremony, checking frequently to ensure it is still hanging correctly.
The weight of your dress is an important consideration when deciding whether to hang or lay it flat. Wedding dresses are significantly heavier than normal clothing, and hanging them can cause strain on the straps. If your dress is only a few light layers, such as silk or satin, it is safe to hang it. However, if your dress is heavily beaded or has a deep, open neckline, it is better to lay it flat to avoid discoloration and stretching.
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Use the right hanger
Wedding dresses are often heavier than normal clothing, so it's important to use the right hanger to avoid causing strain on the dress's straps. The weight of the dress should be a key consideration when choosing a hanger. Heavy dresses with lots of layers and beadwork will require a heavy-duty hanger to prevent the dress from losing its shape. A hanger with high-quality silk padding can also help to prevent any damage to the sleeves and straps.
If your dress is extremely heavy, you may need to get creative with how you hang it. One option is to use a strong plant hanger so that the dress doesn't touch the floor or walls. If your dress has a long train, you can stretch it out and drape it over a high-backed chair to prevent wrinkles. Alternatively, you may be better off laying your dress flat and storing it in a garment bag, especially if your dress has a deep, open neckline, to avoid discoloration and stretching.
If you plan to hang your dress, it's important to use the appropriate hanger. Avoid using a standard coat hanger, as it may not be strong enough to support the weight of your dress. Instead, opt for a hanger made of sturdy material such as steel. The alterations department of your bridal boutique may provide a suitable hanger, or you can purchase one specifically designed for wedding dresses. Some hangers even have built-in straps to support the dress, or a seamstress can add straps to your dress if needed.
In addition to choosing the right hanger, it's crucial to select an appropriate storage location for your dress. Avoid hanging your dress in a damp room or in direct sunlight, as this can cause discolouration. Choose a dark, cool, and dry place, such as a spare bedroom or closet that isn't frequently used. Keep the dress away from children and pets, and consider leaving a note on the door to remind people that there's a wedding dress hanging inside.
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Avoid wrinkles
To prevent wrinkles, it is important to consider the weight of your dress. Heavy dresses with multiple layers, beadwork, and embellishments need extra care. If your dress is heavy, you will need to dedicate a room in your home to storing it, rather than hanging it in a closet. Use a sturdy hanger that can bear the weight of your gown, such as a heavy-duty hanger or one with high-quality silk padding.
If your dress has a long train, use the loop at the bottom of the train to hang it up. This will help the train drape evenly and prevent bunching in your garment bag. If your dress has inner straps, you can use these to hang it up, but avoid hanging it by its actual straps as this can stretch them out over time.
To prevent wrinkles, it is also important to control the climate and restrict activity near where the dress is hanging. Keep your dress in a room with a temperature between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit, and avoid damp rooms like attics and cellars. Hang the dress high up from the floor and away from walls, with clean towels underneath in case it falls. Avoid hanging it near windows as sunlight can cause discolouration.
If your dress does get wrinkled, you can try hanging it in the bathroom while running a hot shower to slowly de-wrinkle it. You can also use a steamer to remove wrinkles, but be careful not to get the dress wet and always use distilled water. If you are unsure, consider taking your dress to a professional steamer or dry cleaner.
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Choose a suitable location
Choosing a suitable location to hang your wedding dress is crucial to ensure it remains pristine before the big day. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the perfect spot:
Firstly, it is essential to find a safe, clean, and dry place to hang your dress. Avoid damp rooms like attics or cellars, as excess moisture can damage the fabric. Similarly, steer clear of areas with strong sunlight, as this can cause discolouration. If possible, opt for a room that is generally maintained at a cool temperature, ideally between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Secondly, consider the foot traffic in the area. Choose a quiet room that is not frequently used, minimising the risk of accidental damage or dirt. Keep the dress away from children and pets, who might unintentionally harm the gown. Additionally, ensure the chosen space is free from strong odours, as these can permeate the fabric over time.
Thirdly, assess the weight of your dress. Heavier gowns with multiple layers, beadwork, or a deep, open neckline are best laid flat, rather than hung. For these dresses, a spare room or a large closet is ideal, ensuring the dress is protected from dust and dirt. If you must hang a heavier dress, a sturdy plant hanger or a strong, steel hanger can bear the weight, preventing the dress from losing its shape.
Lastly, consider the colour of your dress. White dresses, in particular, show every speck of dust or dirt, so ensure the chosen location is immaculate. A travel garment bag can also help keep your dress pristine, especially if you need to transport it.
Remember, the key to choosing a suitable location is to balance practicality with protection. Select a safe, clean, cool, and dry place that minimises foot traffic and potential stains or damage. By considering these factors, you can rest assured that your wedding dress will be ready for its grand entrance!
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Frequently asked questions
The best way to store your wedding dress depends on its weight and how long you plan to store it for. If your dress is heavy and has lots of layers and beadwork, it is best to store it flat in a spare room. If your dress is light and your wedding is only a few weeks away, hanging it is ok. Remember to remove the plastic from your dress if it will be stored for longer than a few days, as plastic can cause staining.
A few days before your wedding, carefully remove your dress from its storage location and hang it somewhere high so that wrinkles and creases can drop out. If there are still some wrinkles a day or two before the wedding, hang the dress in the bathroom while running a hot shower so that the steam can remove them.
It is important to use a hanger that can bear the weight of your gown. If your dress has sleeves or straps, use the inner straps to hang your dress to avoid stretching them out. You can also use a hanger with high-quality silk padding to prevent damage to the sleeves and straps.
