George Boyle
Selling a never-used wedding dress can be a great way to recoup some of the money spent on it, especially if it's in good condition. There are many websites and consignment shops that specifically cater to brides looking to buy second-hand wedding dresses, such as Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, Blue Sky Bridal, and Poshmark. When selling a wedding dress, it's important to provide detailed descriptions and high-quality photos of the dress from multiple angles, as well as accurate measurements and information on any alterations or wear and tear. It's also beneficial to consider specialist services or consignment shops that can handle the sale for a commission fee. Additionally, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist are free alternatives that can be used to list the dress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Online vs. in-person consignment | Online consignment may attract more buyers and better pricing, but in-person consignment may be more secure. |
| Consignment shops | Specialist services, such as Blue Sky Bridal, bridal stores, and consignment shops, can help with the sale for a commission. |
| Online marketplaces | Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, eBay, Poshmark, Tradesy, and Mercari are potential platforms for selling wedding dresses. |
| Specialist websites | Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, and Blue Sky Bridal are websites that specialize in buying and selling wedding dresses. |
| Pricing | Used wedding dresses typically sell for 50% of the retail price, but designer gowns can sell for closer to 60%. |
| Condition | The dress should be in the best condition possible, with no tears, stains, or damage. Professional cleaning can increase the selling price and speed. |
| Photography | High-quality photos from multiple angles, including close-ups of important details, are essential for selling the dress. |
| Description | A detailed description, including size, color, alterations, and any wear and tear, helps buyers make a decision. |
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What You'll Learn
Online vs in-person selling
When it comes to selling a wedding dress, you have the option of selling it online or in person. Both methods have their own advantages and considerations.
Online Selling
Selling your wedding dress online can expose you to a wider audience of potential buyers. There are many online platforms that cater specifically to the buying and selling of wedding dresses, such as Stillwhite, Tradesy, and Poshmark. These platforms often offer user-friendly interfaces and tools to facilitate the selling process, including secure payment methods and fraud protection.
Online selling allows you to provide detailed descriptions of your dress, including measurements, alterations, and any wear and tear. It is important to include multiple high-quality photographs from different angles to showcase the dress's condition and unique features. Some platforms even suggest including a video to highlight how the dress moves and sparkles.
One advantage of online selling is that you can set your own price and keep all the profits, as some platforms charge a one-off fee instead of a commission. However, certain platforms do charge a commission, so be sure to review the terms and conditions. Additionally, online selling may require you to handle shipping and potential returns.
In-Person Selling
Selling your wedding dress in person typically involves consignment shops or local bridal salons. This option can be more convenient if you want a quicker sale, as you can directly interact with potential buyers or consignment shop professionals who can assess the resale value of your dress.
In-person selling may be preferable if you want to avoid the hassle of creating online listings and managing shipping. You can also expect to find buyers who are specifically looking for bridal gowns. However, you may have a more limited pool of potential buyers compared to online platforms.
Ultimately, the choice between online and in-person selling depends on your preferences and circumstances. Online selling offers a broader reach and flexible pricing, while in-person selling can provide a more immediate and specialised selling experience.
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Taking and selecting photos
When it comes to selling a wedding dress, photos are the key to making a sale. You'll want to include as many photos as possible from all different angles, showcasing the dress on a hanger and on a person. Here are some tips for taking and selecting photos of your never-been-worn wedding dress:
Taking Photos:
- Use a DSLR camera with manual mode capabilities to capture the best photos. A higher megapixel count will be able to capture the colour and details of the dress more accurately. If you don't have access to a DSLR camera, don't worry; you can also use your smartphone to take great product photos.
- Good lighting is essential. Natural light is perfect for giving a soft, even look. If you're shooting indoors, you'll need additional lighting equipment such as an umbrella or flash gun.
- Before shooting, test your camera settings and adjust the lens and white balance. If using a DSLR, experiment with different shutter speeds, ISO levels, and apertures. For indoor shoots, try setting your ISO to 100-200, your aperture to F/4-11, and your shutter speed to SS 125.
- Shoot from different angles and distances to get a variety of images.
- Consider using a tripod and a set of lights if you plan on shooting at night or post-processing your pictures.
- A ring light or diffuser can be helpful for capturing intricate details.
- Use a plain background so that the focus is on the dress. A white sheet or foam board can be used to create a backdrop and help the dress stand out.
- Iron out any wrinkles or use a hand steamer to remove creases.
- Spot-clean any stains or consider getting the dress dry-cleaned if there are visible stains.
- If there are any tears or other flaws, consider repairing them or getting them professionally fixed.
- Think about the mood and message you want to convey. Do you want the dress to look glamorous or casual?
- Add context with props if you wish.
- If possible, take pictures outside in natural lighting.
- Use a lightbox to photograph any accessories that come with the dress.
Selecting Photos:
- Select photos that showcase the dress from different angles, including close-ups of any important details such as beadwork or lace designs.
- Choose photos that show the dress on a hanger as well as on a person.
- Include photos of any tags, care instructions, and imperfections.
- Select photos that show the dress in the best light, with no wrinkles, stains, or tears.
- Choose images that convey the mood and message you want to associate with the dress.
Remember, the more photos you can provide, the better. By following these tips, you'll be able to showcase your dress in the best light and increase your chances of making a sale.
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Creating a detailed description
The Condition of the Dress:
Start by thoroughly inspecting the dress for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Check for any stains, tears, or scuffs, especially along the hem. Even if your dress has never been worn, some gowns may have minor flaws or imperfections from storage. Be transparent and disclose any issues in your description, as this builds trust with potential buyers.
Size and Measurements:
Provide accurate measurements of the dress, including bust, waist, hip, and length dimensions. If the dress has been altered in any way, be sure to mention this and describe the alterations in detail. For example, you could mention if the dress has been taken in at the waist or if the straps have been adjusted.
Fabric and Design Details:
Describe the fabric of the dress, including the material and any unique textures or finishes. Highlight any intricate design elements such as beadwork, embroidery, lace patterns, or 3D floral embellishments. These details add value to the dress and are often what potential buyers are looking for.
Colour and Shade:
Provide an accurate description of the colour and shade of the dress. Terms like 'ivory', 'off-white', 'champagne', or 'blush' can help convey the exact hue. If there are any variations or nuances to the colour, be sure to mention them, as different lighting conditions can affect how the dress appears in photos.
Original Retail Price and Year:
Include the original retail price of the dress and the year it was purchased. This information helps potential buyers understand the value and can be a factor in their purchasing decision. It also allows them to compare the asking price to the original cost.
Designer and Style:
Mention the designer or brand of the dress, if applicable. Certain designers may be in higher demand or have a stronger reputation, which can influence the resale value. Additionally, describe the style of the dress, such as whether it's a ball gown, A-line, mermaid, or sheath style.
Remember, the more detailed your description, the better. Potential buyers often rely on the written description to gain a comprehensive understanding of the dress before making a purchase decision.
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Choosing a selling platform
When it comes to choosing a platform to sell your wedding dress, there are several options to consider. You could opt for an online resale platform, a specialist consignment service, or a local bridal resale shop. Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting the right platform:
Online Resale Platforms
Selling your wedding dress online exposes you to a wider audience of potential buyers. There are several websites that specialize in buying and selling wedding gowns, such as Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, and Tradesy. Stillwhite, for example, is the world's largest pre-owned wedding dress marketplace and offers an easy-to-use platform for both sellers and buyers. They charge a one-time listing fee, typically starting at $20, and you keep all the profits without any commission. Other general online marketplaces like eBay, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Mercari also provide opportunities to sell wedding dresses. However, these platforms may have varying commission fees and levels of user-friendliness.
Specialist Consignment Services
If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can engage a specialist service that will handle the sale for you in exchange for a commission. These services, such as Blue Sky Bridal, offer a convenient and proven way to resell your wedding dress. They typically provide honest advice on pricing, inspect the dress, and manage the entire consignment process, including shipping and communication with potential buyers. Consignment shops, especially those with a fashion focus, can also help sell your dress and attract bridal customers.
Local Bridal Resale Shops
If you're looking for a quicker sale and want to avoid the online listing process, local bridal resale shops are an option. These shops buy wedding dresses directly from sellers, allowing you to bypass the waiting game associated with online listings. However, keep in mind that bridal styles change constantly, so some shops may have specific criteria for the gowns they accept.
When choosing a selling platform, it's important to consider factors such as reach, convenience, fees, and the level of involvement you want in the selling process. Each platform has its own advantages and considerations, so selecting the right one will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
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Cleaning and preservation
If you want to sell a never-used wedding dress, it is important to ensure that it is in good condition, without any tears, stains, or other damage. Wedding dresses are delicate and intricate garments, and over time they are prone to yellowing, oxidation, and other forms of damage, especially if not treated and stored properly right after the wedding.
To prevent this damage and preserve your wedding dress, it is recommended to have it professionally cleaned and preserved. Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment will retain its quality for years to come. This process involves an experienced specialist assessing the dress and creating a unique treatment plan according to the dress fabric, stitching, and details.
It is important to choose a dry cleaner that uses a solvent that is gentle and pure enough for a wedding gown. Regular dry-cleaning solvents may contain impurities that can re-deposit onto the fabric and leave a strange smell. Wedding dress preservation should only be undertaken by a professional, and it is recommended to have it done as soon as possible after the wedding.
There are a few at-home tips for preserving a wedding dress, but none are as effective as professional preservation treatment. When storing your dress, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Store it in a breathable garment bag or an acid-free box to prevent discolouration and maintain its shape. Do not hang your wedding gown as this may lead to stretching or warping.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several websites that allow you to sell your wedding dress online, including Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, Poshmark, Tradesy, Mercari, Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. You can also sell your dress in person at local bridal resale shops or consignment shops.
A used wedding dress in great condition and under two years old can usually sell for 50% of the retail price. Gowns from popular wedding dress designers could make closer to 60% of their retail value. It's important to consider the year, designer, style, and condition of the dress when deciding on a price.
Make sure your dress is in the best condition possible. Most gowns could benefit from a professional wedding dress cleaning. You should also take clear, full-length photos of the dress from every angle, including close-up shots of any intricate details.
Provide a detailed description of the garment, including accurate measurements and information on any wear and tear. You should also include the sizing, exact colour, and any alterations that have been made to the dress.
