Many brides save their wedding dress to pass down to the next generation or to wear again as a special occasion dress. Others may choose to have it altered or repurposed into a cocktail dress, a veil, or even home decor pieces such as pillows. However, if you’re not planning on wearing your gown again or have a wedding dress collecting dust in a closet, donating it is a great way to give your dress new life and spread joy to others.
There are a variety of charities and thrift stores that accept donations of wedding dresses. Before deciding where to donate your gown, familiarize yourself with the organization’s guidelines and requirements. Most organizations will provide information on their website, but you can also call or email to ask about specific instructions. For example, some charities require that your dress be less than five years old and professionally cleaned before donation.
Some charities are focused on providing wedding gowns to those in need or supporting charitable causes, such as Gift of a Wedding and Angel Gowns for Angel Babies. Other nonprofits, such as Adorned in Grace, use donated bridal dresses to help support anti-trafficking initiatives in communities. Before donating your gown, make sure you understand the impact your donation will have on the community.
Other charities and shops that accept wedding dresses include thrift stores, churches, and bridal expos. Some of these groups host charity events to raise funds for local initiatives, so it’s important to check their websites for details on what items they need and when.
Before donating your dress, have it dry-cleaned to ensure that it is in good condition and free of stains and rips. If you’re not sure how to clean your dress, you can hire a professional or follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Also, avoid plastic garment bags, as they can trap moisture and cause yellowing. When storing your wedding dress, consider keeping it in a breathable fabric bag or archival box.
You can also donate your gown to a local buy/sell/trade group on social media or online forums. Some of these organizations can connect you with a potential buyer for a discounted price. They may also be able to arrange for shipping and handling.
Lastly, you can donate your dress to Oxfam, which works to overcome poverty by fighting injustice and inequality. Their mission is to give everyone the power to thrive, not just survive. The organization has retail stores and donation drop-off locations, as well as an online shop.
When deciding where to donate your wedding dress, be sure to research the organization thoroughly to ensure that their values and reputation align with your own. Contact the charity to find out what their expectations are, such as whether or not they will accept damaged wedding dresses or other items. Also, keep records of any correspondence and agreements to ensure a smooth process. As a bonus, you may be able to claim your donation on your taxes as an itemized deduction.