We’ve all heard about the proverbial ugly dress a bridesmaid is expected to purchase and wear for someone’s wedding. When that happens, it’s no surprise that many bridesmaids take a “one and done” approach to that outfit. Changing fashion styles and evolving attitudes regarding weddings have led to ceremonies where bridesmaid attire is quite stylish and flattering. Even so, many bridesmaids find themselves wondering what to do with that garb. Money, time, and effort went into making that garment. What are you going to do with “this old thing?”

Give It Away

Throwing away the dress isn’t really an option, so if you have no further use for the outfit, you can donate it. Consider donating it to the following people:

• The Newlyweds: Some couples love having keepsakes of their special day. Ask the couple if they’d like to have the dress as a memento of their nuptials. If you know the couple is especially sentimental or nostalgic, the outfit could be a surprise anniversary present. 
• Charitable Organization: Many charitable organizations will make great use of your outfit, including women’s shelters, a local drama troupe in need of costumes, or groups that repurpose old gowns into dresses for proms or quinceaneras.
• Someone You Know: Check with friends and family to see if there’s someone who would like the garb.

Reinvent That Dress

With a few adjustments, that gown could have a second life as a new outfit. If you’re not handy with a needle and thread, talk to a tailor or a fashion-savvy friend. A gown can easily become a cocktail dress. Consider separating the top from the bottom and making two new garments for your wardrobe. Make more ensembles by mixing and matching the new separates with other clothes.

Upcycle Your Outfit

If life as a new garment is not in the cards for your apparel, consider upcycling it into something else. If you’re an enthusiastic DIY-er, consider turning your dress into decorative items for your interior spaces, such as a cushion, cushion cover, or window treatment. Clothes may not always make the person, but sometimes a piece of apparel can be framed or mounted to canvas as wall art. 

Play Dress-Up

Make your bridesmaid dress a part of a costume for Halloween. This is a great idea if the style of the outfit is associated with a public figure or fictional character. Add some accessories and makeup, and you’re all set! If you like to play dress-up with a youngster, this garment can become part of the fun. Consider having it resized or adjusted to fit the child. If you’re willing, your outfit can also be used for dolls and stuffed animals that often make the best guests for playtime.

Sell Your Dress

If your dress was really expensive or of a certain quality, the only satisfactory move is to resell it. There may be local consignment shops willing to buy your dress. Take a look at online resellers such as Queenly and ThredUp, or social media platforms, such as Facebook Marketplace. If your garment is in great condition or in high demand due to the label or style, you may be able to recoup most or all of what you paid for it. If you don’t have any pictures of you wearing it, take a selfie and share it online. Even if you don’t make a lot of money from the sale, you are helping someone get the dress at a discount.  

As a former bridesmaid, you agreed to stand beside a loved one (or two) on their important day. You didn’t agree to make the dress a part of your wardrobe. You’ve got the garment and it’s outlived its usefulness. Consider these suggestions for reusing or repurposing your outfit.