How to repurpose a wedding dress?

16999903
by 16999903

It's about that time to let go of my wedding dress (Maybe!). Even being from the 70's, I still feel like it's the most beautiful piece of clothing I have ever worn. The veil itself is fairly long and very intricate and delicate. I have little grandsons and I'm not expecting more so I've been thinking about it. It's an Olegg Cassini and I have to say my mother had a bottomless pocket book when it came to my wedding. I have thought about selling it....but I don't think the style is ready to be revived yet. I've heard of organizations that will make Christening gowns for babies, and sadly, even burial gowns and clothes for newborns that passed away at birth. I would glady GIVE this dress to either, but they are overloaded with donations.


It's very bittersweet to think about....but I won't make any decisions quickly. BTW- My mother had it cleaned and stored in an heirloom box for preservation. It's really just like new. [sigh]

  6 answers
  • Vicki Vicki on Sep 03, 2018

    Could you make an evening dress out of it ? Or make a feature of it in a glass cabinet. with pretty bunches of artificial delicate coloured silk flowers around it.

  • Sivan7 Sivan7 on Sep 03, 2018

    Unless it's got padded shoulders or some other feature that makes it "taste specifec", you probably can sell it. Have you considered renting it out?

    I wanted a pre-worn dress, but eventually purchased new for my own wedding. Wedding dresses are a big expense for a one time use. A friend of mine actually rented her wedding dress and it looked great.

  • 16999903 16999903 on Sep 03, 2018

    Thank you both for your suggestions. Vic...There really isn't any part of it that would look like an evening dress, and between the long veil and semi long train, I can't see putting it in a cabinet. I'm much more minimalist the older I get. Interesting idea!


    Sivan....I haven't thought of that at all. Old school here! When I picked it out, I dreamed I would have a daughter that could tailor it to her taste......but it just wasn't her. It's not conservative for the 70's actually 79....very fitted top with capped sleeves and a plunging neckline...and white as white. Remember Princess Diana's dress....very Victorian and volumes of fabric. It's nothing like that. I'll see if I can find a photo to post. That might inspire an idea!

  • Kc Kc on Sep 03, 2018

    If you have grandsons...you'll have grandson's wives...start hinting now...let them know that their future bride could wear your dress.

    • 16999903 16999903 on Sep 03, 2018

      Hi KC.....I actually thought about that....but they are only 2 and 4  .....but I can hang on to it if I don't find another use for it. Here's a photo.....my daughter has the full length portrait, but this give an idea of the style. Outdated for sure, but not quite obnoxious. lol! Yes...I lopped off my head...... Thank you for your input!

  • Janinpa Janinpa on Sep 25, 2018

    Your gown is breathtakingly gorgeous! I say rent/borrow it out. Even if it is worn for only a couple of weddings, until your grandsons are ready, it will be great satisfaction and pride to you. Some girls are out there who would love to wear your dress.

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Sep 26, 2018

    Baby christening gown communion dress baby outfits for new borns for hospital