What to Do with Your Old Bridesmaid Gown

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Despite the stylish dresses available for bridesmaids these days and the bride’s effort to choose a dress her bridesmaids can wear again, most women probably won’t wear their gown to another event. I had ten bridesmaids in my wedding, and after shortening the hemline, only one of my bridesmaids wore her gown again. What can you do with your bridesmaid gown after the wedding is over and you’ve cleaned it? Here are a few ideas.

1. Donate it to charity. Most thrift stores have a nice selection of formals. Someone will come across your gown and find it to be perfect for her event. Also, some high schools and non-profit groups accept formal gown donations, which they sell or give away prior to prom season. Your generosity may allow a young lady to attend the prom in an affordable gown.

2. Sell it. You can sell the gown in a local or online consignment store. If you sell it on consignment, the owner may look up the retail value of your gown and sell it for half its value, and then you will get half of that.

You, also, can sell it on eBay. You’ll need to set up a PayPal account, take a picture of your bridesmaid gown and write a descriptive blurb about it. Once you upload your photo, and take care of the other eBay requirements, such as setting your price, you’ll be able to sell your gown online.

3. Save it. You may, in fact, find that you will have an opportunity to wear your gown again to an event. Perhaps none of the other former bridesmaid will be in attendance and wearing their bridesmaid gown. Perhaps you’ll wear it, and everyone will want to know where you found such a stunning gown!

July 1st, 2009 by Yolanda D. Young | Posted in Bridal Party, Tips | (2)