How to Sell Bridesmaid Dresses

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is a great compliment and being a bridesmaid can be a lot of fun. Along with your title comes the obligation to wear whatever the bride-to-be wants you to wear. It's great when the bride chooses a bridesmaid dress in a style that can be worn again for another occasion such as a formal party or a even a night out. Unfortunately, this is not usually the case, and if you are a frequent bridesmaid, you may find yourself strapped for cash and with a closet full of unusable dresses.

Things You'll Need

• Bridesmaid dresses
• Computer with Internet access

Instructions

How to Sell Bridesmaid Dresses

1. Take stock of the bridesmaid dresses in your closet: Which ones are in good enough condition to be worn by someone else? Do you have a dress that could be used as a prom dress? Are some so out of style that only a thrift store would take them? Could any be considered worthy for a retro store? Divide the dresses into categories based on where you think they are most likely to be resold.

2. Make a list of the size, style and material of each dress so you can easily describe each dress you are trying to sell.

3. Gather shoes, purses or jewelry that you bought to match any of the dresses.

4. Contact potential buyers. Call bridal shops in your area to see if they buy used dresses that are in good condition. Start by calling top-notch bridal stores and try to recoup as much money as you can.

5. Stop into several secondhand stores to see if they purchase used dresses--and be prepared to make a case for your dress. If you can convince the store that your dress or dresses are worthy as a prom or party dress then you will have a better chance of selling it. If you have shoes and a purse that go with the dress, this can improve your chances of selling and increase the sale price.

6. Try selling via Internet. If you believe your bridesmaid dress is worth more than any offer you've received in a secondhand store, try to sell it on the Internet. Craigslist and eBay are great outlets to sell items and make decent money.

7. Host a garage sale. You may be able to negotiate a higher selling price when you're dealing with a person who wants the dress for personal use. Plus, a garage sale allows you to sell and make money on other items you no longer use as well.

Tips & Warnings

• The sooner you try to sell a dress after a wedding, the more likely it is to be in style and therefore more appealing to potential buyers.

• Have the dress dry cleaned before showing it to a potential buyer.