How to Shop For a Used Wedding Gown

Nothing beats the feeling of walking down and committing yourself to the one that you love. Weddings have always been looked forward to; but as much as the fulfillment that it gives is the stress the woman has to undergo throughout the preparation stage. One of the sources of stress is the cost of the wedding gown. One way that you can save money is by purchasing a used wedding gown.

Buying a used wedding gown, especially when under a tight budget, is an excellent choice. Used wedding gowns could still work their magic for the second bride-user. Consignment shops, online bridal stores, dress boutiques and auctions are great places to start. However, before you purchase that used wedding gown there are some steps you should take.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Pick the right style. Consider your personal style when choosing a used wedding gown. Even if it was a bargain, a gown that you feel self conscious in will put a damper on your day.

2. Check for stains. The used wedding gown must also be checked for stains or dirt. Wine, food condiments, sauces, and wedding cake are the familiar culprits.

3. Make sure it fits. Keep in mind that the used wedding gown that you choose may be in your size but was probably altered.

4. Use Caution when shopping for used wedding gowns online. Online auction sites such as eBay have a lot of great deals but it is often hard to purchase a used wedding gown that you haven't been able to inspect up close or try on. If you do decide to purchase online be sure read the description carefully. Also ask for accurate measurements, inquire about flaws, shipping costs and what the return policy is.

Tips & Warnings

• When shopping online on sites such as eBay pay for your purchase with Paypal, which offers buyer protection to consumers.

Resources

• Throw Your Wedding On A Shoestring Budget

[jseven]

on 6/22/2009 I did this years back and got a beautiful gown for under $100! Helpful advice....

[cherold598]

on 6/15/2009 Great tips for getting a wedding dress on a budget.

[hunter5012]

on 6/15/2009 Geat tips.

[nashville1012]

on 6/15/2009 PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com is a good resource for buying a preowned wedding dress. The site lists the seller's measurements, so you can get a true sense if the POST alterations dress will fit.

[jdds08]

on 6/15/2009 Good job pointing out that even though the dress is the right size it was probably altered.