When it comes to wedding dresses, most people only wear them once. Rather than hanging onto the dress as an expensive heirloom or taking part in the popular “destroy the dress” tradition, many brides find a more meaningful way to dispose of their gowns: by donating them. In addition to allowing others to experience the joy of wearing the gown for their special day, donating it also offers an opportunity to get a tax deduction (though this may be more difficult now with new federal laws). According to Zola, a bridal site that allows you to buy and sell used gowns, many charities accept donated wedding dresses as well as other wedding accessories like veils and tiaras.
One local option in the capital region is Albany, NY-based Angel Gowns of the Capital Region. These volunteer sewers transform wedding dresses into infant burial gowns—also known as angel gowns—which they then offer to families of babies lost too soon at hospitals, birthing centers, and funeral homes free of charge. Another nearby option is the Michigan-based Brides Project, which raises money for family-focused programs and services through the reselling of donated dresses at its shop locations. Those interested in donating a gown to this nonprofit can visit their website to learn more.
In addition to these nonprofit bridal stores, there are a variety of thrift and charity shops that accept wedding dresses as well as other bridal accessories. The website Adorned in Grace lists many options across the US, and most charities and thrift shops will clean your dress before reselling it or giving it to someone in need. Be sure to hold onto your receipts and purchasing documentation to help determine the fair market value of the dress in the event you want to claim a charitable donation.
If you aren’t able to donate your gown, you can still make it a part of your eco-friendly lifestyle by transforming it into something else. The fabric can be reused to create home decor or cherished keepsakes, such as pillows or baptism gowns for children. You can even use the buttons and trimmings to create DIY jewelry or accessories. Alternatively, you can cut the dress up and use it as a table runner, photo prop or wall art.
The environmental benefits of donating your wedding dress go beyond saving space. According to GreenDrop, when clothing is thrown away, it sits in landfills and releases hundreds of toxins into the air. Reusing your wedding dress reduces waste and saves the resources and energy it takes to produce new textiles and apparel.
If you’re unsure about where to donate your gown, start with your local churches or charities that support those in need. You can also look for local bridal or wedding expos, which often host a sale or swap of pre-loved wedding gowns. Additionally, check out social media and online groups in your area, as they may have specific threads or discussions around gown donations.