Weddings are joyous occasions, but they often come with a hefty price tag. Between the venue, catering, and other expenses, it’s no wonder brides are looking for ways to save money on their big day.

If you’re faced with the same dilemma, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many brides have already found a viable solution in the form of preloved wedding gowns.

Choosing to wear a secondhand wedding dress can mean savings in hundreds or even thousands of dollars. It can also serve as a meaningful way to honor a loved one or continue a family tradition.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make the most of a preloved wedding gown. From finding the right dress to accessorizing it in a way that feels unique and personal, you’ll learn tips and tricks to make wearing your mother’s or sister’s gown work for you.

Finding the Right Dress

Before thinking about accessories or customization, you must find the perfect dress for the occasion. Here are some tips to make this task a lot easier:

1. Consider the style.

If you love vintage styles, you might be able to find a beautiful gown that fits your vision. Take some time to browse bridal magazines or online shops to get an idea of the styles you like.

Of course, you can skip this part if you already have a dress in mind (e.g., what your mother wore when she tied the knot).

2. Check the condition of the dress.

Before committing to a preloved wedding gown, make sure to check the condition of the dress. There’s no point in honoring family tradition if the dress is already in a sorry state.

Check for signs of damage, such as stains or tears. Once you’ve listed these, consider how easily they can be repaired. Also, go over the fabric’s quality and ensure it is still good for another walk down the aisle.

3. Take measurements.

Since you’ll likely be altering the dress to fit your body, you must take accurate measurements before purchasing or committing to a preloved gown.

Measure your bust, waist, hips, and the length from your shoulder to the floor. This will help you determine how much work needs to be done to make the dress fit perfectly.

4. Explore your options.

Don’t limit yourself to just one option when searching for a preloved wedding gown.

Ask family and friends if they have any dresses they’re willing to lend or sell and consider browsing through online marketplaces for preowned gowns. You might be surprised at the options available to you.

Alterations and Customization

While it might be tempting to try and make alterations yourself, it’s best to work with a professional tailor or seamstress. They’ll have the expertise and experience needed to make any alterations or adjustments to the dress, ensuring that it fits perfectly and looks stunning on your big day.

Also, remember to be realistic about what can and cannot be changed. If the dress is too small, it might not be possible to let it out enough to fit comfortably. Likewise, if the dress is too large, it might have to undergo major alterations that could compromise the style of the dress.

If the preloved wedding gown doesn’t quite match your personal style or taste, consider customizing it to make it your own. This could mean adding embellishments, changing the neckline or sleeves, or adding a belt or sash to accentuate your waist.

Work with your tailor to explore the possibilities and find a way to make the dress uniquely yours.

Cleaning and Restoration

Before your wedding day, it’s a good idea to have your hand-me-down wedding gown professionally cleaned. This is especially important if the dress has been in storage for a long time or has any stains or discoloration.

Look for a service provider specializing in wedding dress dry cleaning, as they’ll have experience working with delicate fabrics and intricate designs. Having it cleaned by a professional can also help ensure it doesn’t look old and potentially restore the gown to its former glory.

Accessories and Styling

When choosing accessories for your preowned wedding gown, consider the venue and overall theme of your wedding.

If you’re having a formal wedding, you might want to choose more elaborate accessories, such as a sparkling necklace or chandelier earrings.

Planning a beach wedding? Opt for more natural or bohemian-inspired accessories, such as a floral crown or shell earrings.

Also, remember that less is more when it comes to accessories. If your preowned wedding gown is particularly intricate or has a lot of embellishments, use minimal accessories to avoid overwhelming your look. A delicate bracelet, such as custom name bracelets, or a simple pair of stud earrings can be all you need to add a touch of sophistication to your look.

Want to add a bit of drama to your look? Choose one statement accessory to really make it happen. This could be a bold necklace, a sparkling tiara, or a dramatic veil. Just be sure to choose an accessory that doesn’t detract from the beauty of your preloved wedding gown.

Incorporating a preloved luxury bag can also make your wedding day look more opulent.

A vintage Chanel or preowned Hermes purse is sure to add a touch of glamor and sophistication to your look while also being a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.