The Secret To Buying a Used Wedding Dress

My poor wedding dress has been sitting in the dark closet of my childhood home for almost 10 years. I’m pretty sure my mom doesn’t love that it is taking up space in her home too. A few months after I got married, she asked me when I would stop by to pick-up the dress. I slyly dismissed the question. I spent a few thousands dollars on my mermaid style dress, only to have it now sit in a lonely, dark box.

Reflecting back, I wish I could have sold my dress to someone else who could have equally enjoyed it or maybe taken some fun after wedding photos of me, in my gown, with the ocean waves splashing on it as I laughed with my new husband. Oh well…

Buying a used wedding dress can be a daunting and scary process. How do you know if the dress that was worn by someone else will fit you or be stain free? I have a little secret on how to find a luxury, pre-loved wedding dress.  First, find a luxury designer and dress that you love. My personal favorite designers are Monique Lhuiller, Ellie Saab, Oscar de la Renta, Liz Martinez, Vera Wang, Galia Lahav, and Pronovias.

Aim to find a size that is similar to your own. Next, find an amazing, local tailor who specializes in wedding gown alterations. Ask the tailor if it would be okay to try on the wedding dress at her shop. If it works out, it is a win-win scenario for all parties involved. The tailor gets new business, the seller recoups some of her wedding costs, and you just purchased a designer dress for much less, saving thousands of dollars!