Whether it’s an old necklace, a coffee mug, or a piece of clothing, we all have some things that we don’t really need anymore, but we simply can’t force ourselves to get rid of them. Like totems, these little things are a link to the past, a dear person or a cherished memory, and we’d hate to see them go. The truth is – sentimental is hardly ever practical.
Sometimes it’s possible to renew, revive and find a use for these things again, which should definitely be done if at all possible. But, since a wedding dress (hopefully) isn’t something you’ll need to use again, maybe it’s time to pass it on. If you ever decide to go for something like that, here’s how to sell your wedding dress!
The first thing you need to know about selling a dress is how to describe it. Details are known to seal the deal, so be accurate. Designer and color are a must, include the style number and be careful about the sizes – include hips, waist, length and bust.
Do not avoid mentioning the damages, as they are only going to be an unpleasant deal breaker later on. If you are not sure about the condition of your wedding dress – check – you don’t want to make a bride-to-be’s life anymore difficult than it already is. Remember the chaos you were in? So, double check!
Use Simple Words
No, seriously, be aware that not everyone is an expert. Most people have heard about the cathedral or royal train, but those are professional expressions, and many are clueless about their actual measurements. It’s very important to describe your dress truthfully and in a way everyone can understand.
Be specific about the train, or veil lengths, since these are the little things that are the deal breakers when it comes to purchasing a dress. The theme and venue play a big part in determining what kind of attire is appropriate, so be sure to shatter all the potential doubts a buyer may have.
Think Like a PR
Presentation is essential. You don’t need a degree, but be creative. The trick is to create an image of an attractive, interesting wedding dress, so scratch words like „old“, „worn“ or „second hand“. Use „looks like new“, „elegant“, or „vintage“ instead. And try to get into the „bride“ mindset once again. What would draw you? What was the description you associated with your dress the day you bought it. Use it.
You know everyone’s chasing that ‘this is THE dress’ feeing, and women might thing it’s harder to get that feeling with an already worn dress. Show them how wrong they are. Feel free to tell a little bit about how it made you feel the first time you put it on. If you go about it the right way, they will want to feel the same way, and possibly – want the same dress!
Add Photos
The social networks made one thing clear – You can use audio, emotion icons or funny liners, but if you want to be recognized, you’ll need pictures. People will not buy a wedding dress if they can’t see it, so be extra cautious when taking pictures.
Find the right angle, and don’t photograph your wedding dress laid out on a flat surface. Put it on a hanger, or use an old cropped photo of yourself. Photograph your dress as many times as you like, but choose the front view, the back view and the full length view, before posting close-ups.
Setting the Cost
Be realistic. Use the wholesale price (half of the original cost) as a guideline. Try not to expect too much. You’ll probably get around 35% of the original price, especially at the consignment shops.
Did you know that Elizabeth Taylor’s and Audrey Hepburn’s wedding gowns were auctioned for millions of dollars? In fact, many celebrities, like Christie Brinkley and Tisha Campbell-Martin, did the same thing with their gowns. Yes, you may not be able to get, an out of this world, deal for your dress, like these girls, but you can always use some extra money!
So maybe it’s time to give up on that routine of keeping the old, almost useless stuff around the house. Cherish your memories, knowing that creating new ones is probably even more important!
This is a great idea! Never thought about it. Really good article.