The Best Places To Thrift Wedding Dresses

where to thrift wedding dresses

There are many options available for brides-to-be looking to buy a second-hand wedding dress. One option is to look at consignment stores, either in-person or online. For those in Chicago, Silver Moon Vintage, Veronica Sheaffer Custom Bridal, and I Do Designer Bridal Consignment are all popular options. For those unable to visit a store in person, there are online marketplaces such as Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed, and Preowned Wedding Dresses, which allow users to search for pre-owned wedding dresses in their area.

Characteristics Values
Online marketplace Stillwhite, Nearly Newlywed
Local consignment stores I Do Designer Bridal Consignment, Glamour Closet, Veronica Sheaffer Custom Bridal, Silver Moon Vintage
Local thrift stores N/A

shunbridal

Online marketplaces for preowned wedding dresses

There are several online marketplaces where you can find preowned wedding dresses. Stillwhite, for example, is the largest global marketplace for preowned, used, and second-hand wedding dresses, with over 95,000 wedding gowns for sale. You can browse through hundreds of designers and pay safely using PayPal. Another option is Borrowing Magnolia, which offers a wide range of styles, colours, and silhouettes for preowned wedding dresses. They provide a safe, online messaging system that allows you to connect and chat with dress owners. Nearly Newlywed is another online platform that connects brides with dresses, whether you're looking for a single dress or have a whole salon's worth to sell. They offer new, sample, and used wedding dresses.

shunbridal

Local thrift and consignment stores

In Seattle and Portland, Blue Sky Bridal is a popular bridal consignment store. They offer a large selection of new, sample, and once-wed wedding dresses at discounted prices, with options for plus-size brides as well. Their dresses are available to take home on the same day, and they also accept wedding dresses on consignment. Another consignment store in Chicago with positive reviews is Brilliant Earth, which offers an eclectic collection of clothing, including wedding dresses.

Online marketplaces like Nearly Newlywed also connect brides with new, sample, and used wedding dresses in their area. They have a zip code tool that allows users to shop within a certain mile radius. ThredUp is another online consignment and thrift store where you can find previously rented wedding dresses.

For those looking for a more intimate shopping experience, booking an appointment at a local bridal boutique is a good option. These boutiques often offer a relaxed and personalized experience, with knowledgeable stylists on hand to help you find your dream dress.

shunbridal

Bridal boutiques for custom vintage dresses

Bridal boutiques are a great option for those seeking custom vintage wedding dresses. These boutiques offer a curated selection of vintage gowns, often including pieces from renowned designers. Here are some notable bridal boutiques for custom vintage wedding dresses:

Adored Vintage

Adored Vintage is a bridal boutique that provides looks that blend vintage and modern styles for the romantic spirit. While they don't exclusively cater to brides, their collection includes colourful picks from the 1910s to the 1990s, perfect for those who want to stray from the traditional white dress.

Shareen Mitchell

Shareen Mitchell, with boutiques in LA and New York, offers custom modern wedding gowns infused with repurposed vintage clothing pieces. Their gowns are unique, one-of-a-kind creations, with no dress exceeding $2,000.

Madly Vintage

Madly Vintage, based in Venice, California, is a fashion and bridalwear destination for vintage enthusiasts worldwide. They offer antique bridal finds, infusing new and old components for a unique look.

June's Uniquely Yours

June's Uniquely Yours, located in Cape May, New Jersey, is a family-owned boutique specialising in romantic styles from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. They offer a wide range of vintage wedding dresses, accessories, shoes, and jewellery, allowing you to find your dream dress and complete your ensemble in one place.

Online Boutiques

Several online boutiques, such as Cream & Ivory, provide affordable vintage bridal attire, including custom fittings and global shipping. These shops often feature designer vintage gowns from well-known labels, ensuring that you stand out on your special day.

Bridal boutiques for custom vintage wedding dresses offer a unique and personalised experience. With their expertise in blending old and new elements, these boutiques can help you create a timeless and distinctive look for your wedding day.

shunbridal

Sample sales and off-the-rack boutiques

Off-the-rack sample dresses are usually in good condition, with only minor flaws like loose beading or slight marks, which are reflected in the discount. However, you may need to budget for additional cleaning or repairs. Sample dresses are typically available in sizes 8-12, with a smaller selection up to size 20, and can be altered by up to 2 sizes without compromising the integrity of the dress.

One boutique that offers off-the-rack sample sales is The Bridal Finery in Orlando. They provide free standard shipping and complimentary dry cleaning of the gowns after purchase. They also offer customisation options, such as adding sleeves or changing necklines and backlines.

Another option is Glamour Closet, a sample boutique in Chicago that offers a range of wedding dresses at various price points, including options below $1,000.

shunbridal

Rental services for wedding dresses

There are several rental services for wedding dresses that offer a range of styles, sizes, and price points. Here are some options to consider:

Rent the Runway

Rent the Runway is a popular subscription-based rental service that offers designer clothing and accessories. They have a dedicated bridal section, where you can find wedding dresses, as well as outfits for engagement photos, bridal showers, and other pre-wedding events. Rent the Runway offers both subscription and one-time rental options. Their rotating closet is constantly updated with new trends, and they provide dry cleaning services as well. The cost of a one-time rental through their RTR Reserve service varies, but you can select a four- or eight-day rental period.

Nuuly

Nuuly is a clothing rental service that offers a flat monthly rate of $98 for access to six clothing items, including dresses from brands like Anthropologie, Free People, and Urban Outfitters. They offer a range of sizes from 00 to 22, as well as maternity sizes. Nuuly also provides complementary laundry and repair services. While they don't specifically mention wedding dresses, their selection of on-trend dresses could include options suitable for weddings and pre-wedding events.

The Dress Outlet

The Dress Outlet offers a range of designer wedding dresses for rent, including versatile styles, colours, and fabrics to match your personal style and wedding theme. They feature ball gowns, fit-and-flare dresses, and A-line gowns that are easy to move in and dance in. The Dress Outlet appears to cater to a variety of sizes and body types, ensuring a comfortable and flattering experience for brides.

Laine London

Laine London, a rental bridal shop located in Atlanta, provides designer wedding dress rentals. They offer a range of styles, from short and casual to floor-length and formal, allowing you to find a dress that aligns with your preferences and budget.

By opting for a rental service, you can save money, access designer gowns at a fraction of the retail price, and enjoy the convenience of included dry cleaning services. Remember to check the rental duration, fees, and availability to ensure your dream gown is secured for your special day.

Frequently asked questions

There are several places in Chicago where you can find thrift wedding dresses. Here are some options:

- Silver Moon Vintage: Specialises in original vintage bridal and vintage-inspired collections.

- Veronica Sheaffer Custom Bridal: Handcrafts feminine, vintage-style gowns using fine fabrics.

- I Do Designer Bridal Consignment: One of the city's premier bridal resale salons.

- Glamour Closet: A sample boutique with many dresses priced at $1000 or below.

- Weddings 826: A budget-friendly option with many dresses in the $1000 to $1500 range.

Stillwhite is the largest global marketplace for pre-owned wedding dresses. You can browse through hundreds of designers and pay safely using PayPal. Another option is Nearly Newlywed, which connects brides with new homes for beautiful wedding dresses.

When buying a thrift wedding dress, it's important to start your search early to allow for any necessary alterations. It's also a good idea to set a budget and stick to it. Finally, be open-minded and try on a variety of styles to find the perfect dress for your special day.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment