Your wedding dress is one of the most significant and perhaps expensive dresses of your life, and it is understandable that you might want to hold onto it after the big day. However, the question remains, should you keep your old wedding dress? This blog post will explore the reasons why you might want to hold onto your dress, as well as considerations for why you may want to sell or donate it instead.
Memories and Sentimentality
Your wedding day is a special and sentimental day, and your dress is often a symbol of that. Many brides keep their wedding dresses to remind them of the happy memories of the day, as well as to show their children and grandchildren. It’s also a lovely way to remember the special people who were present for the occasion, such as your mother, grandmother, or maid of honour. The memory of your loved ones being there for you on your wedding day is something that can be treasured for life, and having your wedding dress as a reminder can be a beautiful thing.
Heirlooms
Another reason why you might want to hold onto your wedding dress is that it could become an heirloom. Family heirlooms are precious and can be passed down through generations to come. If you have a daughter or a granddaughter, they might feel the same emotional connection to your wedding dress that you have, and it could become a meaningful and sentimental piece of family history.
Financial Value
Although wedding dresses are often expensive, they can hold their value, particularly if the dress is still current and in demand. In certain circumstances, it may make sense to sell your dress to recoup some of the original cost. For example, if your wedding dress was custom-made and unique, you could consider selling it to another bride to love, cherish, and wear on her special day. With selling, however, comes the possibility that the dress may be altered or changed from its original state, which could potentially detract from its sentimental value if that is important to you.
Storage
One of the main concerns about holding onto your wedding dress is how to store it. Wedding dresses are often delicate, and they need to be stored in a particular way to avoid damage, discolouration, or moth damage. If you do choose to store your dress, ensure it is well protected, such as in acid-free tissue paper or a breathable garment bag, and that it is kept in a cool and dry place. However, it’s important to remember that storing a wedding dress can take up precious space in your home, particularly if it is a large, full dress.
Alternative Options
While keeping and storing your wedding dress may be the preferred option for many, there are alternative options to consider. If you don’t have the space to keep your dress, or if you would prefer it to be of use to someone else, there are various ways to donate or sell your dress. You can donate it to a charity organisation that supports families affected by cancer, poverty, or disasters, and they can sell your dress and put the proceeds towards their cause. Alternatively, you could consider selling your dress online, such as through a wedding dress resale website, where another bride can purchase and enjoy your dress.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, whether or not to keep your old wedding dress is a very personal decision. If sentimentality, nostalgia and the possibility of an heirloom are important to you, holding onto your dress may be the right choice. On the other hand, if a cleaner, more organised space, and the possibility of helping others by donating or selling your dress sounds appealing, it might be time to consider parting with it. Whatever you decide, it’s crucial to consider the storage options and the long-term possibilities of each choice. It’s also essential to consider other factors such as financial value and emotional attachment and to find a solution that works for you.
FAQ
Are old wedding dresses worth anything?
Old wedding dresses can hold sentimental value for many brides, but they can also have financial value. The worth of an old wedding dress generally depends on several factors, including the condition of the dress, its age, and the demand for the dress style. As a general rule of thumb, used gowns in great condition and only a few years old can sell for fifty percent of their retail price. However, as the dress gets older, the amount it can sell for decreases, especially if the dress style is no longer popular or in demand.
Vintage wedding dresses from the 1920s to the 1960s are popular with vintage enthusiasts and collectors, and can often fetch a higher price than more recent dresses. The timeless style and unique designs of dresses from these periods make them highly sought after. Similarly, dresses worn by celebrities or royals may also have increased value, as they can be viewed as iconic pieces of fashion history.
If you have an old wedding dress that you no longer need, it may be worth considering selling it. However, keep in mind that the dress may not be worth as much as you initially thought, and it may take some time and effort to find the right buyer. It’s important to do your research and consult with experts before deciding to sell your dress to ensure that you receive a fair price for it. If the dress doesn’t have significant value, you may also consider donating it to a charity or repurposing it into a different garment or accessory.
How long should you have your wedding dress?
When it comes to wedding dresses, one of the most common questions that brides-to-be have is about the length of the dress. The length of your wedding dress is an important consideration as it can affect your overall look and comfort on your big day.
In general, the length of your wedding dress should be determined by a few key factors. Firstly, you should consider your height and the height of your heels. Ideally, your wedding dress should be tailored to fit you perfectly so that it complements your height and your style.
Most tailors would suggest that the front of your wedding dress should actually be about one inch from the floor and reach only to the top point of your shoes. This way, you can walk comfortably without tripping or getting tangled in your dress. The back of the dress, on the other hand, should touch the floor and create a flowing, elegant look.
It’s important to note that the length of your wedding dress can also be affected by the style of the dress. For example, a ball gown dress may be longer than a fitted mermaid dress that hugs your curves. Additionally, the type of fabric you choose for your dress could also impact its length. Heavier fabrics may be longer, while lighter fabrics may be shorter.
The length of your wedding dress will depend on your personal preference and the style that you are going for. However, it’s always a good idea to work with a professional tailor to ensure that your wedding dress fits you perfectly and suits your unique style. By taking the time to find the right length for your dress, you can feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful on your special day.
What is the point of preserving a wedding dress?
A wedding day is one of the most important days in a person’s life and brides often spend lots of hours and money searching for their perfect wedding dress. After the big day, many brides wonder what to do with their wedding dress. While some donate, recycle, or sell the wedding dress, others choose to keep and preserve it for posterity. So, what is the point of preserving a wedding dress?
Firstly, preserving a wedding dress allows you to keep it in good condition for years to come. Wedding dress preservation is important because wedding gowns are often made from delicate fabrics and have intricate details like beading, embroidery, and lace. A properly preserved wedding dress will look just as fresh and beautiful as it did on the wedding day. By preserving your dress, you can also pass it on to future generations without worrying about the fabric yellowing or stretching.
Secondly, preserving a wedding dress is eco-friendly. By preserving your dress, you are keeping it out of landfills and recycling it in a way that is sustainable. This is particularly important as the fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters of our planet. Preserving wedding dresses can be seen as a way of advocating for slow and sustainable fashion.
Thirdly, wedding dress preservation eliminates the risk of damage from stains or elements. Stains on the dress can be difficult to remove if not attended to quickly and the dress can become ruined if left hanging in a damp area. Dust, dirt, and oil from handling can also ruin the fabric of the dress if not preserved properly.
Finally, preserving a wedding dress helps retain emotional value. Wedding dresses are often associated with special memories, and preserving them helps to keep those memories alive. By holding on to a cherished wedding gown, you can pass down memories and traditions, creating heirlooms that can span generations.
Wedding dress preservation is important for several reasons. By preserving your wedding dress, you are keeping it in excellent condition, making it eco-friendly, protecting it from damage, and retaining emotional value. Whether you keep it for sentimental purposes or pass it down to future generations, wedding dress preservation is a worthwhile investment.
