Lyla Dejesus
Wedding dresses can cost thousands of dollars, but thrifting a wedding dress is a more affordable and eco-friendly option. By purchasing a pre-owned wedding dress, you can reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and save money. When thrifting a wedding dress, it is important to know your size and body type to ensure a good fit. Online shops like Stillwhite, Loved Twice Bridal, and Once Wed offer a wide range of pre-owned wedding dresses at affordable prices. Local thrift stores and consignment shops are also great places to find unique and budget-friendly wedding dresses. However, it is important to be aware of potential cons, such as additional costs for cleaning, alterations, and surprise expenses.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Budget-friendly | Lower cost than bridal salons |
| Eco-friendly | Reduces waste, carbon emissions, and water usage |
| Convenience | Online shops offer filtering by size, brand, and budget |
| Variety | Wider range of styles and sizes available |
| Customization | Can be altered by a tailor to your tastes |
| Time | May take time to find the right dress |
| Condition | May require cleaning or repairs |
| Availability | More options around bridal season or Halloween |
| In-person shopping | Try on different styles and identify what flatters you |
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What You'll Learn
Try on multiple styles to find what works for you
When thrifting a wedding dress, it's important to try on multiple styles to find the one that works for you and your body type. You might have a style in mind, but it's worth trying on different shapes to see what suits you best.
If you're buying online, you won't be able to try on the dress until it arrives, so make sure you know your size and the styles that typically suit your body type. Mermaid or trumpet styles, for example, hug the body and can accentuate curves, while a princess or ball gown style might be better suited to those who want a more traditional, poofy dress. If you're buying in-person, you can try on a variety of styles to see what you like.
You can find second-hand wedding dresses at local thrift stores, online shops, or consignment boutiques. Online shops like Still White have a wide range of sizes and styles, and you can filter by these categories to find dresses that might work for you. Consignment boutiques often have discontinued samples from other boutiques, which are typically cleaner and have no alterations, but may have some damage. Thrift stores are also a great option, but they may not always have wedding gowns in stock, so it's worth checking periodically or asking staff if they plan to hold gowns for bridal season or Halloween.
While thrifting a wedding dress, it's important to keep an open mind and be adventurous. You might fall in love with a style you never thought you'd like!
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Know your size and body type
Knowing your size and body type is crucial when thrifting a wedding dress. While thrifting, you might come across dresses that are unique, vintage, or non-traditional, and it's important to keep in mind what style will flatter your body type.
If you're petite, for example, belted dresses with an empire waistline can help elongate your legs and make you appear taller. On the other hand, if you're curvier, fitted mermaid dresses or gowns can accentuate your curves beautifully. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles, as you might be surprised by what looks best on you. Try on multiple gowns and keep note of the different shapes to discover which ones you love.
Additionally, be mindful of your exact measurements when thrifting online. Sites like Stillwhite allow you to filter by size, ensuring you find a dress that fits your body type. However, if you buy a dress that doesn't quite fit, don't worry! You can always have it altered by a tailor to your liking.
Keep in mind that discontinued samples are typically sized between 10 and 12, so if you fall within this range, you'll have an easier time finding a sample dress. If you're a smaller size, thrifting may offer more options than bridal shops, but it can be a bit more challenging to find larger sizes. Nevertheless, larger gowns are available, and you can increase your chances of finding one by checking with shops that advertise larger sizes or carry a wider range of sizes.
Lastly, when thrifting a wedding dress, you may come across dresses with minor flaws or damage. Always check for stains, rips, or tears that may need attention. If you're purchasing a dress in person, inspect it thoroughly, and if you're buying online, ask for detailed photos or videos to ensure you're aware of any necessary alterations or repairs.
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Check for stains, rips and damage
When thrifting a wedding dress, it is important to check for stains, rips, and damage. This is a critical step in the process, as thrift stores may not always be aware of the condition of the items they are selling. A thorough inspection will help you identify any issues and determine if they can be addressed.
Start by examining the dress for any obvious blemishes, such as large stains, rips, or tears. Pay close attention to the fabric, looking for any signs of discolouration, holes, or overly stretched areas. Check the dress inside and out, as stains and damage can be hidden on the inside layers. If you find any stains, try to identify the type of stain and choose an appropriate treatment method. Natural brands like Puracy offer eco-friendly stain removers, while products like Grandma's Secret Spot Remover are known for tackling set-in stains. You can also use a laundry detergent or a stain remover, being sure to follow the instructions on the label.
In addition to stains, be on the lookout for any damage to the dress, such as rips or tears in the fabric. Carefully inspect the dress, including the seams and hemlines, for any signs of wear and tear. If you find any damage, consider whether it can be easily repaired or if it will require more extensive alterations. Keep in mind that some thrift stores may be open to negotiating a lower price if the dress is damaged.
It is also important to check for any missing or damaged embellishments, such as beads or sequins. These can be difficult to replace, so assess whether the dress can be altered to your liking without them. If the dress has intricate details or delicate fabrics, consider whether it can be properly cleaned and cared for. Some fabrics, like silk, wool, and cashmere, require special care and may need to be dry cleaned or hand washed.
Remember, even if you find a dress with stains or damage, it doesn't mean you have to pass on it. Many issues can be resolved with proper cleaning and tailoring. However, always try to inspect the dress thoroughly before purchasing it, as some issues may be difficult or costly to fix. By taking the time to check for stains, rips, and damage, you can make an informed decision and ensure you are happy with your thrifted wedding dress.
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Compare prices and consider the cost of alterations
When thrifting a wedding dress, it is important to compare prices and consider the cost of alterations. The cost of alterations can vary depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the alterations, the number of alterations required, and the rates of the seamstress or tailor.
Basic bridal gown alterations typically range from $150 to $700. However, prices can go up to $1,000 or more, especially for customized or delicate gowns. Some bridal boutiques offer a flat alteration fee, which usually covers most basic alterations and can range from $500 to $1,000. This fee excludes customizations and may vary depending on the boutique.
When comparing prices, it is advisable to consider both online and offline options. Local thrift stores and consignment shops often offer a wide range of wedding dresses at affordable prices. They may also have discontinued samples or vintage styles that can be unique and budget-friendly options. Online platforms like "StillWhite" and local thrift apps provide a convenient way to search for wedding dresses within your budget and filter options by size. However, prices on these platforms may vary, and additional shipping costs should be considered.
The cost of alterations should be a significant consideration when thrifting a wedding dress. While some dresses may only require simple alterations like hemming or side seam adjustments, others may need more intricate work. Customizations, such as adjusting the neckline, adding straps, or embellishing with beading, will likely increase the overall cost. It is essential to find a qualified tailor experienced in working with wedding gowns to ensure the best results.
Additionally, the fabric and style of the gown can influence the alteration cost. Altering dresses made of delicate fabrics like silk or satin often involves intricate hand stitching, increasing the price. Dresses with intricate embellishments, such as lace, beading, or applique laces, will also likely incur higher alteration costs. It is worth noting that some boutiques charge a la carte for specific alterations, while others offer flat rates that cover all standard alterations.
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Look at second-hand shops, online and in-store
If you're looking for a wedding dress on a budget, it's worth checking out second-hand shops, both online and in-store. Buying pre-owned is a great way to save money and be more sustainable. You can find second-hand wedding dresses at local thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces.
For in-store options, try visiting your local thrift stores and consignment shops first. You might be surprised at the selection and some dresses might even still have their tags on! You can also check out bridal boutiques, which often have discontinued samples for sale. These samples may have some damage but they are typically cleaner and have no alterations, so you can make them your own.
When it comes to online options, there are many websites that specialize in pre-owned wedding dresses, such as Stillwhite, Borrowing Magnolia, Nearly Newlywed, and Preowned Wedding Dresses. These sites offer a wide range of styles, colors, and silhouettes, and you can easily browse and purchase from the comfort of your own home. Stillwhite, for example, is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned wedding dresses, offering designer gowns at affordable prices.
When buying online, it's important to know your size and the type of shape that flatters your body type. You might not be able to try on the dress until it arrives, so be sure to check if there are any stains or rips that need addressing. You can always have the dress altered by a tailor to your tastes if needed.
Whether you're browsing online or in-store, keep an open mind and try on multiple styles to find the one that makes you feel like a queen!
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Frequently asked questions
You can find a wedding dress at your local thrift stores or consignment shops. Some recommended shops include Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Brides For a Cause. You can also try online secondhand shops such as eBay, Still White, and Once Wed.
Thrifting a wedding dress is a great way to cut costs and practice sustainability. By buying a pre-owned wedding dress, you can reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and save money. Additionally, you can find unique and modern styles at thrift stores that may not be available at traditional bridal boutiques.
It is important to know your size and the type of style that flatters your body type. Try on multiple styles and be adventurous! Keep an eye out for any stains, rips, or alterations that may be needed. If you are not fully happy with the dress, you can always have it altered by a tailor.
One possible con of thrifting a wedding dress is the additional cost and hassle of cleaning and alterations. If you are buying online, you may not be able to check the fit until the dress arrives. Additionally, the selection at thrift stores may be more limited compared to traditional bridal boutiques, and you may need to visit multiple stores to find your dream dress.
