Secondhand Wedding Dresses/accessories

Hi Ashlyn! I've heard good things about online sites like preownedweddingdresses.com and Still White!! Just make sure you buy a dress that is your size or larger - you can always alter the dress to make it smaller, but you'll have to account for any existing alterations made on the dress previously!

I just picked up my secondhand dress on Monday! I'm really happy with my decision. I managed to find one local on Still White so I was able to look at it in person beforehand to ease any quality/condition concerns.

Pros:I'm saving a ton of money! I got my dress for $300 versus ~$1300 new. Plus I'm saving money in alterations since the length is perfect and a bustle's already been added.

Cons:There is a little damage on the dress I bought - a small rip in a layer of tulle on the backside. I'm not really bothered by it though. It's not noticeable and I'm sure I'll snag it myself at some point anyways. I didn't try any dresses on in store beforehand and I do regret that. The dress I picked is gorgeous and exactly what I envisioned, but I wish I would have tried some on with my mom first to share that experience with her - but I didn't want someone else to scoop up my dress first so I jumped on it.

If you end up going the secondhand route, definitely ask for measurements and/or what alterations were made if they aren't listed. If you look on Still White, a lot of sellers post their measurements so you can compare then to your own, which I thought was really helpful. Good luck!

Hi Ashlyn. I can't speak to using second hand myself, but I wish I thought of this as an option when I was shopping. I would have loved to buy a second-hand veil as it was on my head for only 45 min. I have since shared my handsewn veil with my husband's cousin. Also, when it comes to accessories, don't knock what's already in your closet. There's really no need to buy new for anything, and I actually like to rewear my wedding jewelry and shoes on a date night.

My sister-in-law did buy her dress from a consignment store in person and did not regret her decision. She had at least 2 dresses and wardrobe changes per Chinese custom. There's no one way to outfit yourself for your wedding. Best wishes to you!

Hi! I would 10/10 recommend doing it! I got my dress at a consignment store and was also able to get a “party dress” at a discounted price plus accessories! For about 3k. and on top of that, I can re-sell them my dress back. Which I’m all for as I dont want it taking up space in my closet for years to come lol. I went to 2 other boutiques after but they just did not match the energy!
The experience was phenomenal for me and my consultant was extremely helpful! I’d give it a try🤍