Lyla Dejesus
After the wedding, brides are often left wondering what to do with their wedding dresses. Some brides choose to have their gowns professionally preserved, either to pass them down to future generations or to resell them to another bride. Others opt to repurpose their dresses into décor or donate them to charities that accept wedding gowns for brides in need. Some brides even turn their dresses into art by getting them framed and displayed in their homes. While some brides choose to keep their dresses as a sentimental reminder of their wedding day, others sell them to earn back some of the money spent.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Shopping for a wedding dress | Can be overwhelming and stressful |
| Should start right after selecting the wedding venue | |
| Should be bought 9 months ahead of the wedding day | |
| Should be tried on with the undergarments and shoes intended to be worn on the wedding day | |
| What to do with the wedding dress after the wedding | Get it cleaned and boxed |
| Get it framed | |
| Repurpose it into décor | |
| Donate it to someone in need | |
| Resell it and use the proceeds to raise money for different causes | |
| Pass it down to someone else in the family |
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What You'll Learn
Tips for choosing a wedding dress
Wedding dress shopping can be a magical experience, but the sheer number of options available can make the decision overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect wedding dress for your special day.
Do Your Research
Before heading to any bridal salons, do your research. Compile a file of your favourite wedding dresses by tearing pages out of magazines, saving Instagram posts, creating a Pinterest board, browsing online boutiques, and noting celebrity looks you love. Identify common themes among the gowns you've chosen, such as embellishments, lace, open backs, or strapless necklines. This will help you determine your bridal style and narrow down your options.
Understand Your Vision
Understand what your dream wedding dress looks like. Choose specific words to describe your desired style, such as "classic", "vintage", "romantic", or "glamorous". This will help you communicate your vision to bridal consultants and stylists, who can then assist you in selecting dresses that align with your taste.
Be Open-Minded
While it's great to have a clear vision, it's important to keep an open mind while shopping. The dress you thought you wanted might not be what you end up loving. Try on different styles, even those that don't initially catch your eye. You may be surprised by what suits you and what you fall in love with.
Choose the Right Time
It is recommended to start shopping for your wedding dress right after you select your venue. Bridal stylists suggest buying your gown nine months in advance to accommodate alterations, customizations, and accessorizing. This timeline ensures that you have enough time to find the perfect dress without feeling rushed.
Know Your Budget
Before you begin shopping, have a clear understanding of your budget. Discuss who will be paying for the gown and how much you or they are willing to spend. This will help you select the right bridal salons to visit and avoid wasting time trying on dresses that are out of your price range.
Choose a Dress That Reflects You
Your wedding dress should be a reflection of your personality and taste. Choose a dress that makes you feel like the best version of yourself, regardless of others' opinions. It's important to make decisions based on what you and your partner want, rather than giving in to external influences.
With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to finding the perfect wedding dress that will make you feel beautiful and confident on your special day.
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What to do with your wedding dress after the wedding
Deciding what to do with your wedding dress after the big day can be challenging, especially if you have an emotional attachment to it. Here are some options to consider:
Preservation
If you want to keep your wedding dress as a memento, preservation is a good option. This can cost anywhere from $200 to $1000, and it's important to use a dress preservation specialist rather than a standard dry cleaning service. You can then store your dress in a box, taking care to handle it with gloves and store it with acid-free tissue paper in a dry, dark location.
Framing
Some people choose to frame their wedding dresses and display them as artwork. While this can cost thousands of dollars, there are also DIY options available.
Alteration
You could alter your wedding dress into a garment that you can wear again. This could be a mini dress, a two-piece set, or even a robe that you can wear to surprise your partner on your first anniversary. You could also shorten the skirt to create a formal dress for other occasions.
Donation
Donating your wedding dress is a great way to give back to the community. You could give it to a local charity, a nonprofit organisation like Brides Across America, or a theatre or costume shop. There are also Facebook groups, such as "Shared Dream Dresses", where you can pass on your dress for free to another bride.
Selling
If you're looking to recoup some of the costs of the wedding, you could sell your dress. There are platforms specifically for pre-owned wedding dresses, such as Nearly Newlywed, which offer cleaning services as part of the selling process.
Repurposing
If you have children or are planning to start a family, you could repurpose your wedding dress into a christening gown or other formal clothing for them. Alternatively, you could turn it into a costume for a school play or add it to a dress-up box for future costume parties or photoshoots.
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Wedding dress shopping timeline
Wedding dress shopping can be a magical experience, but it can also be overwhelming. To ensure you enjoy the process, it's important to plan and follow a timeline. Here is a comprehensive wedding dress shopping timeline to guide you:
9-12 Months Before the Wedding:
- Start compiling inspiration and determining your bridal style. Create a Pinterest board, browse online boutiques and magazines, and identify common themes in the styles you're drawn to.
- Select your wedding venue. The location and theme of your wedding may influence the style of your dress, so it's essential to finalise this detail before dress shopping.
- Research bridal salons or designers. Look into their designer selections, price points, and sample sizes to ensure they align with your vision and budget.
8-10 Months Before the Wedding:
- Begin visiting bridal salons and trying on dresses. This is the time to explore different styles and narrow down your preferences. Keep an open mind and try on various silhouettes and designs.
- Discuss budgeting and payment plans. Know your budget and who will be paying for the gown. Be prepared to pay the difference if you find a dress that exceeds the designated price point.
5-6 Months Before the Wedding:
- Order your wedding dress. The production and shipping process can take several months, so placing your order at this stage is crucial.
- Shop for wedding undergarments, shapewear, and intimate essentials. These items are important for ensuring a flawless look on your big day.
3-4 Months Before the Wedding:
Your wedding dress should arrive at this stage. It's time to start the fitting process and any necessary alterations. Choose a professional seamstress with experience in wedding dresses and formal wear.
2-3 Months Before the Wedding:
Continue with fittings and alterations. This process may require multiple sessions to ensure the perfect fit.
1 Week Before the Wedding:
Finalise your wedding dress look. Ensure all alterations are complete, and your dress is ready for the big day.
Remember, this timeline is a general guide, and the specific steps may vary depending on your unique circumstances. Some dresses may take longer to create or require additional customisations. It's essential to stay organised and flexible throughout the process.
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Wedding dress shopping tips
Wedding dress shopping can be an overwhelming and stressful experience. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process and find your dream gown:
Start Shopping Early:
Right after selecting your wedding venue, it's advisable to begin wedding dress shopping. Bridal stylists recommend buying your gown at least nine months in advance to allow for alterations, customizations, and accessorizing. If you have a long engagement, you may want to wait until closer to the wedding to choose your dress to ensure it suits your style preferences at the time.
Determine Your Bridal Style:
Before stepping into bridal salons, take time to explore different styles and identify what you love. Compile a visual file of your favorite wedding dresses by browsing magazines, Instagram, Pinterest, and online bridal boutiques. Look for common themes in the gowns you're drawn to, such as embellishments, lace, open backs, or specific necklines. This will help you narrow down your preferences and keep an open mind when trying on different styles.
Discuss Budget and Payment:
Before your first appointment, have a clear understanding of your budget. Determine who will be paying for the gown and establish a spending limit. If someone else is paying, respect their budget constraints, and be prepared to cover any difference if you find a dress that exceeds their price point.
What to Wear to Appointments:
When going to wedding dress appointments, wear clothing that is easy to take on and off. Many dresses have built-in cups, so you may not need a bra, but you can bring a strapless option if you prefer. Bring shapewear or Spanx if you plan to wear them on your wedding day. Additionally, consider bringing the shoes or heels you intend to wear, as it will help you visualize the complete look and ensure the dress's length is appropriate.
Keep an Open Mind:
While it's great to have a vision for your wedding dress, don't be afraid to try on different styles. You may be surprised to find that a style you hadn't considered before flatters you in ways you didn't expect. Enjoy the process, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.
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What to wear when wedding dress shopping
Wedding dress shopping is an exciting part of wedding planning, and knowing what to wear can make the experience more enjoyable and productive. Here are some tips to help you decide what to wear when wedding dress shopping:
Clothing
When deciding what to wear, it is essential to prioritise comfort and practicality. Opt for clothing that is easy to change in and out of. A flowy dress, a midi skirt with a blouse, or a loose-fitting dress that can be easily removed are all great options. Avoid excessive layers and outfits with intricate buttons. If you plan on wearing shapewear on your wedding day, it is a good idea to bring it along to your dress appointments to get a better sense of how the gown will look.
Underwear
It is crucial to wear neutral-coloured, seamless underwear when trying on wedding dresses. Beige, white, or nude underwear is preferred, as it won't create any friction or bunching when trying on delicate gowns. Avoid flashy colours or fabrics that may show through the dresses. If you usually prefer shapewear or Spanx when wearing dresses, bring a pair to your appointment.
Shoes
Bring a pair of heels similar in height to what you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will give you an idea of how each gown's length will look and feel. However, don't forget to pack a pair of comfortable flats as well, as wedding dress shopping involves a lot of standing and walking. Alternatively, you can go barefoot or wear socks to protect your feet.
Makeup and Hair
There is no right or wrong answer to how much makeup to wear when trying on wedding dresses. Wear as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. Consider emulating the hairstyle you plan to wear on your wedding day to create a complete vision.
Remember, the focus should be on the wedding dresses rather than your outfit. Keep it simple, comfortable, and neutral to ensure that each gown you try on is the centre of attention.
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Frequently asked questions
It is advised to start shopping for your wedding dress right after you select your wedding venue. Bridal stylists recommend buying your gown nine months ahead of your wedding to accommodate alterations, customizations, and accessorizing.
Wear something that is easy to take on and off, such as shorts, a T-shirt, and flip flops. You can wear whatever underwear you're comfortable with someone else seeing. It is also recommended that you bring the underwear and shoes you intend to wear on your wedding day.
There are several options for what to do with your wedding dress after the big day. You can get it professionally preserved, donate it to someone in need, or repurpose it into décor for your home. You can also sell it on, or pass it down to someone else in your family.
