How to Wear Bridesmaid Dress After Wedding: 8 Tips

Bridesmaid dresses often end up tucked away in the back of a closet, only to be remembered as a sentimental memento of a beautiful wedding day. However, with a bit of creativity, these dresses can enjoy a second life. Here are eight tips on how to wear your bridesmaid dress after the wedding.

1. Sell It

One of the most straightforward ways to give your bridesmaid dress a new lease on life is to sell it. Many bridesmaids find themselves with a beautiful dress they won’t wear again, making the resale market a popular option. Websites like Poshmark, eBay, and specialized bridal resale platforms like Stillwhite or PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com offer an easy way to connect with buyers. By selling your dress, you can recoup some of the costs and allow someone else to enjoy it.

2. Accessorize It

Transform your bridesmaid dress into a versatile wardrobe piece by accessorizing it differently. Pair it with a leather jacket and ankle boots for an edgy look, or add a denim jacket and flats for a casual day out. Changing up your jewelry, belts, and bags can also dramatically alter the dress’s appearance, making it suitable for various occasions. The key is to experiment with different styles until you find a combination that suits your personal aesthetic.

3. Donate It

If selling your dress isn’t appealing, consider donating it. Many organizations accept gently worn bridesmaid dresses to help those in need. Charities like Brides Across America, which provides wedding gowns to military brides, or local thrift stores and women’s shelters can give your dress a new purpose. Donating your dress is a generous way to give back to the community and help someone else make beautiful memories.

4. Upcycle It

Upcycling your bridesmaid dress can be a fun and rewarding project. Depending on the fabric and style, you can transform the dress into something entirely new. Consider turning it into a cocktail dress, a chic top, or even a stylish skirt. If you’re handy with a sewing machine, the possibilities are endless. Alternatively, take it to a professional tailor who can help you redesign the dress to better fit your needs.

5. Dress It Down

Bridesmaid dresses are often formal, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be dressed down for more casual settings. Pair your dress with simple sandals or sneakers for a relaxed summer look. Opt for minimal makeup and natural hair to keep the ensemble laid-back. With the right styling, a bridesmaid dress can easily transition from a wedding day showstopper to a chic everyday outfit.

6. Dye It

If the color of your bridesmaid dress is too closely associated with the wedding, consider dyeing it a different shade. Fabric dye can transform the dress into a completely new garment, allowing you to wear it on other occasions without feeling like you’re reliving the wedding. Choose a dye that works well with the fabric type of your dress, and follow the instructions carefully to achieve the best results.

7. Redesign It

Redesigning your bridesmaid dress can give it a completely new look. Work with a tailor to alter the neckline, change the hemline, or add new elements like sleeves or embellishments. By making a few strategic changes, you can create a custom piece that fits your personal style and can be worn for various events. This option allows you to retain the sentimental value of the dress while making it more versatile.

8. Store It

If you’re not ready to part with your bridesmaid dress or alter it, storing it properly ensures it remains in good condition for future use. Use a breathable garment bag and store the dress in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage can preserve the fabric and color, allowing you to pull it out for special occasions or even pass it down to someone else in the future.

By exploring these tips, you can ensure that your bridesmaid dress doesn’t just collect dust in your closet but continues to bring joy and style into your life. Whether you choose to sell, donate, upcycle, or restyle it, there are plenty of ways to make the most out of your beautiful dress long after the wedding day has passed.

FAQs

Is it okay to rewear a bridesmaid dress?

Absolutely! Rewearing a bridesmaid dress is a great way to maximize its use and enjoy the beautiful garment beyond the wedding day. With a few styling adjustments, bridesmaid dresses can be appropriate for a variety of events.

How can I reuse my bridesmaid dress?

There are numerous ways to reuse a bridesmaid dress, including selling it, donating it, upcycling it into a different garment, or dyeing it a new color. You can also accessorize it differently or dress it down for a more casual look.

How to make a bridesmaid dress less formal?

To make a bridesmaid dress less formal, try pairing it with casual accessories like flats or sneakers, and adding more relaxed outerwear like a denim or leather jacket. Opt for minimalistic jewelry and a natural hairstyle to complete the casual look.