A wedding dress doesn’t have to end up in the back of a closet. Donating it gives it a new life while also helping to support a cause that’s important to you. And depending on the charity, it might even qualify as a tax deduction.
Most charities that accept wedding dress donations will have a clear process for you to follow to ensure your dress is ready to be passed along. Most will require the gown to be clean and in good condition, free from major rips or tears. They may also impose other restrictions like asking that the dress be professionally cleaned or boxed up.
Once you’ve contacted the charity, you’ll be asked to fill out a short form or email a photo of your gown for a quick vetting process. If you’re worried about ruining your gown by trying to clean it or are unsure about the condition of your dress, consider having a seamstress look over it before you hand it over. It’s worth it to make sure that your gown is in the best possible shape when you donate it so that it can go to a bride who will be able to enjoy it.
There are many places you can donate your wedding dress in the United States. Some charities will resell the dresses, while others will pass them on directly to people in need. Here are a few of our favorites:
Brides for a Cause
This nonprofit bridal store sells donated dresses to raise money for women-focused charities nationwide. They accept gowns of any size or style, but they tend to prefer trumpet and A-line styles. They will also accept bridesmaid and flower girl dresses, prom and formal wear, and bridal accessories.
The Emma and Evan Foundation
This organization repurposes wedding dress donations into infant burial gowns, also known as angel gowns, that are given to families who lose their little ones too soon. They’ll also provide bonnets and other keepsake items for the family to help them cope. This is a beautiful program with a very sad mission.
Success in Style
This charity helps people with mental and physical challenges find jobs. They collect dresses and other wedding-related items for resale in Cherie Amour, a boutique that they opened in Savage, Maryland in 2013. The proceeds from the store will go toward their efforts to help people in need.
The resale of donated dresses and other items will support the work of international non-profits that are aimed at empowering young women to choose an independent future. The charity will accept any brand of wedding dress, but they’ll especially appreciate gowns that are newer and less worn.