Used Wedding Dress

From LoveToKnow Weddings

Wearing a used wedding dress is an affordable solution to an expensive dilemma. Since most wedding dresses are worn once and then preserved, it's not difficult to find a beautiful dress in great condition.

Borrow a vintage gown.

Where does one find a secondhand wedding dress? The possibilities are endless.

[edit]

Consignment Shops

A consignment shop is an excellent place in which to purchase a used wedding dress. Since most consignment shops won't accept any merchandise unless it's in absolutely pristine condition, you're sure to select a winner. Consignment shops in upscale areas are more likely to have expensive designer dresses in stock, than those shops in less ritzy locations. The best part is you're not paying designer prices. Before purchasing a dress from a consignment shop, make sure you examine it thoroughly for damage and that any damage is easily repaired. Since the consignment shop has to split the profits with the original owner, you won't be able to haggle and have to pay the price as marked.

[edit]

Thrift Shops

Thrift shops are another excellent resource for pre-owned wedding dresses. The only problem is that thrift shops aren't as choosy with their merchandise. Since most thrift shop merchandise is donated and sold for charity, it's sold "as is." In many cases you can find a real gem, in others the garment may be in need of some repair. If you're purchasing a used wedding dress from a thrift shop, check the garment thoroughly make sure any damage is easily repaired. Since thrift shops are eager to make a sale, you may be able to haggle the price down.

[edit]

Online Auctions

Auction dresses are very affordable.

An online auction site such as eBay is another excellent source of used wedding dresses. In fact, these are usually your best bet. There's a wide variety to choose from and there are many used wedding dresses for $200 or less. The drawback to this is that you can't scrutinize the merchandise as you can when buying it in person. Be sure to ask for multiple photographs and up close pictures of any damage. You'll also want a full description of any damage in writing. It’s best if you can get a stipulation that allows you to return the merchandise if it's irreparably damaged or doesn't fit.

[edit]

Friends and Relatives

Do friends or relatives have a wedding dress they don't mind letting you borrow? If it's not important you own the dress, this might be a good solution. The best part about the "borrow" method is that most dresses have been dry cleaned before they are stored and packed away and are in excellent condition. The downside is that other people may not want you making alterations to their wedding dresses, so if you and the owner of the dress don't have the same dress size, and the original owner does not want you to change the gown, this is not a viable option.

[edit]

Rentals

You might also consider renting a dress. This isn’t as uncommon as you would think. Many wedding dress salons now have a "rental" section where dresses can be borrowed for up to one week. Rental dresses are usually kept in excellent condition and no repairs or dry cleaning is necessary. The downside to a rental is that you're not allowed to make alterations and only have the option of choosing dresses that fit.

[edit]

Used Wedding Dress Tips

When purchasing a secondhand wedding dress, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Rips, pulls, tears and other sewable damage: Make sure these are things that are easily fixed.
Discolorations and stains: If there are stains or discolorations be sure that these can be removed. If not, be sure they're in an area that won't be seen. If you're unsure of whether or not you or your dry cleaner, can remove the stain, you may want to pass on the gown.
Negotiate: If the dress does have damage, you may be able to haggle. Stores don't want to keep the merchandise. Damaged goods are especially hard to sell. If an item is damaged, and you're sure it can be repaired, begin negotiations for a lower price.
Unless you can try the dress on or you're sure it will fit properly, purchase used wedding dresses in a larger size. It's better to buy a gown that can be altered down to your size than to buy one that is too small.
Since most shops that sell used wedding dresses don't offer alterations, wait until six weeks to a month before the big day before making changes to your gown. This way if you gain or lose weight, you won't have to make changes to the dress again.

There's no shame in wearing a used wedding dress. In fact, unless you tell people, no one will ever have to know.

Retrieved from "http://weddings.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Used_Wedding_Dress"