How to Shop for a Second-hand Wedding Dress

Weddings are expensive. Unless you just absolutely have to have a brand new dress, why not consider a second-hand wedding dress for your big day? These dresses have only been down the aisle one time and yet come at a substantial discount. The money saved on a used wedding dress can go a long way toward paying for some other wedding expense.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know what style of used wedding dress you are looking for but be open to other options. It helps if you have a good sense of what looks good on your body type. Also know your size. If in doubt, take your measurements.

2. Browse Internet auctions to find dresses as well as to get an idea of what the going price is for the particular style you are looking for. If you find a dress you like, don't hesitate to ask the seller questions and for additional pictures.

3. Check the Yellow Pages in your local phone book for consignment shops. Many shops carry used dresses at a greatly reduced price. Find shops in an upscale location. You are more likely to find a pricier gown with a bigger markdown in a consignment shop that handles designer clothes.

4. Ask your friends and relatives if they have a used wedding dress they would like to sell. If the people that attended their wedding are a different circle of friends, chances are no one may recognize the dress.

5. Locate a used dress that you think might work for your wedding. Ask to try it on. Evaluate how many alterations you need to do before it fits you properly.

6. Examine any used wedding dress for stains and tears. Before you buy a used dress that has stains, be sure you can remove the stains. Most brides put their dresses away without cleaning them, so whatever stains are in the dress may be permanently set by the time you buy the dress.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to shop the formal wear section of consignment shops as well. A suitable party dress may work well as your wedding dress at a substantially reduced price.