Hordes of budget-conscious brides have taken to the used market to find their wedding gowns. In some cases, you can find a gown for up to 90% off its retail price, and, it has only been worn a single time by another bride.
While this might be a great way to not bust your budget, there are a few considerations you’ll want to think about before buying a used wedding gown.
Consideration # 1: Will I feel comfortable in a used dress?
Some brides simply don’t feel comfortable with the idea of wearing “another bride’s dress”. Those feelings are completely normal, and if you can’t make peace with the fact that another bride donned your used wedding gown, you’ll probably want to consider buying a new one. After all, you have to feel completely comfortable and confident on your wedding day.
Consideration #2: What type of gown am I looking for?
Certain dress styles are more popular today than they were 10 years ago, and vice versa. If you are a bride that is big on “current trends” then a used wedding gown might work out fine for you. If you are a bride that likes a design that isn’t in fashion right now, or you wish to be a bit different, finding the used wedding gown of your dreams can be a bit tougher. Before you decide to purchase a used wedding dress really think about the type of wedding dress you want to wear. Current, popular styles are the easiest to find used, while unique or off beat dresses can be a bit harder to come by.
Consideration #3: Will my dress need a lot of alterations?
Not everyone is a standard size, but, dresses are designed for standard-sized women. That leaves ladies that are taller than average, shorter than average, or bustier than average a bit out in the cold, at least when it comes to purchasing a used wedding gown. Because there is an “average” size, you will find a lot of used dresses fall into that general category. Many will be between a 6 and 12 street size, and will generally be altered for a woman over 5’5, but under 5’10. If you don’t fall within those sizes, you might have a tougher time finding a used gown that will work for your needs.
If you aren’t a standard size, but you are set on purchasing a used wedding dress, do find a good seamstress who can work with you to make your dress perfect for you. Remember, however, alterations on a used wedding dress can add up quickly, so be sure that you are getting a really good deal on your gown if you will need extensive alterations.
Consideration #4: What is the story behind the dress?
If you are the superstitious type you might want to steer clear of a dress that was involved in a dastardly divorce. If you aren’t superstitious you should at least want to know where the dress has been to get a better idea of its condition. For example, if the owner has stored it in a home that is smoked in, this can be bad news for your dream gown. You might want to ask to see a receipt just to ensure you aren’t buying a knockoff gown (it happens).
Conclusion
If you are a budget-conscious bride, buying a used wedding dress might just be the way to go. When you start your search, just remember these four considerations, and we are sure you will find a dress that will make you shine on your wedding day.
Photo credit: 401(K) 2013 / Foter / CC BY-SA
