Revamping My Mom's Wedding Dress

Take it somewhere and talk to them about how much it would cost for them to do it and if they are able to do everything you want. And then compare it to your budget for a wedding dress.

Yes, buying a new one definitely will be easier, you’re right about that. The decision would be whether having your mom’s fabric would be worth it. And that’s something only you can decide!

It's kind of hard to see the dress in the pics, but I do think it will be easier and cheaper to just buy a new dress in the style you want.

I understand the sentimentality of it.. but if what you want to do is completely change the dress, I think you should just buy the type of dress you want.

It's difficult to see the dress clearly in the picture, but from what we can see, I would say it will be pretty expensive to revamp the dress. This looks like an a-line or a ballgown so they would essentially be making an entirely new dress, just from her fabric. Have you considered maybe purchasing your own dress and wearing your mom's veil?

I think it’s worth it. I am redoing my moms and it will be about $400.... a LOT cheaper than a new dress. But it just depends on who you go to and what you want. In the end you need to decide what makes you happiest, not your mom.

I'd take it somewhere and get estimates on the alterations. My Mom's dress is a size 4 and I am a size 10 so I really couldn't do much with it without adding quite a bit of extra fabric so I am displaying it at my wedding (by some other photos during our cocktail hour).

I’d see what it would cost. My moms gown would never fit me. I am using fabric and embellishments from her veil instead.

I am in the same position with my grandma's dress. I plan on seeing what I can afford to alter on it and also plan on having a second dress for the reception so I can have the experience of picking out my own. It will be cheap and from David's bridal but I really want to be able to have a different and more personal (and comfortable) style for the reception.

Redoing a dress is waaaay cheaper than a new dress. BUT i think you have to be realistic too, you cant just make any dress into a mermaid. Another idea would to use some fabric as a veil or dress trim or in your bouquet.