Essential Tips To Re-Wear A Preserved Wedding Dress
Your wedding day is finally set! From selecting the perfect wedding theme to finalizing the guest list, you have meticulously planned every detail of your big day.
Instead of investing in a brand-new gown, you have chosen to re-wear your mother’s preserved vintage wedding dress—a sentimental and elegant choice. However, before walking down the aisle in this cherished heirloom, there are several essential steps to ensure it looks flawless.
A vintage wedding dress may have outdated silhouettes, loose threads, or fitting issues that need attention. To help you navigate this process, we have created a detailed guide outlining everything you need to do before giving your gown a second chance to shine.
Read on to discover how to restore, alter, and preserve your mother’s wedding dress for your special day!
Step 1
Check the Condition of the Dress
The first and most crucial step is to thoroughly inspect the condition of the dress.
Look for signs of:
Discoloration or yellowing
Stains or fabric damage
Loose threads or missing embellishments
Over time, improper storage methods may have affected the fabric. If your mother had the gown professionally preserved by a wedding dress preservation company, it is likely in better condition. However, you should still handle it with gloves to prevent dirt, oil, or lotion from transferring onto the fabric.
Carefully remove the dress from its storage box and examine it under natural light to detect any hidden stains or fabric weaknesses. If necessary, consult a professional wedding dress cleaner to restore its original beauty.
Step 2
Check the Fit of the Dress
Since the gown was tailored to your mother’s measurements, it is essential to assess the fit before making alterations.
Pay close attention to:
The structure of the gown
Zipper or button closures
Neckline shape and fit
Strap tightness or looseness
Sleeve length and comfort
Overall hemline length
Try on the dress with the shoes and accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will help you determine if any adjustments are needed to achieve the perfect fit.
Step 3
Take the Dress to a Professional for Alterations
Once you have identified the necessary adjustments, take the dress to an experienced tailor who specializes in vintage wedding dresses.
A skilled professional can help:
Modernize the gown while preserving its vintage charm
Adjust the neckline or sleeves for a contemporary look
Add embellishments such as lace, beading, or embroidery
Ensure a perfect fit by altering the bodice and hemline
Have an open discussion with the tailor about your vision for the dress. Schedule multiple fittings to ensure that all alterations are completed well in advance of your wedding day.
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Step 4
Refresh the Dress with a Professional Cleaning
After alterations are made, the next step is to give the gown a fresh clean-up before the wedding.
Consider ordering a clean-only preservation kit from a renowned wedding dress preservation company. This ensures that the fabric is gently cleaned without causing damage.
A professional cleaning will remove any dust, stains, or odors, leaving the dress looking pristine for your big day.
Step 5
Take Extra Care of the Dress Before the Wedding
Once the dress is cleaned and altered, it is essential to store it properly until the wedding.
Follow these steps to keep it in perfect condition:
Use an acid-free storage box to prevent discoloration
Hang it in a sturdy garment bag with a padded hanger for support
Handle the dress with gloves to avoid transferring oils from your hands
Keep the dress in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or humidity. This will help maintain its beauty until the moment you walk down the aisle.
Step 6
Wear the Dress with Care on Your Wedding Day
On your wedding day, take extra precautions to keep the dress spotless.
Follow these tips:
Complete your makeup and hairstyling first to avoid stains
Avoid applying perfume, lotion, or body shimmer while wearing the dress
Ensure the floor is clean before putting on the gown to prevent dirt from accumulating
Having a trusted bridesmaid or family member assist you while getting dressed can help minimize the risk of accidental stains or damage.
Step 7
Preserve the Dress for Future Generations
After the wedding, it is important to preserve the gown properly so that it remains a cherished family heirloom.
Consult a wedding gown restoration service to have the dress professionally cleaned and stored in an acid-free preservation chest. This will protect it from yellowing, fabric deterioration, and environmental damage.
By taking these steps, you ensure that the dress remains in perfect condition for future generations to cherish and possibly wear on their wedding day.
Takeaways
Re-wearing your mother’s preserved wedding dress is more than just a cost-saving decision—it is a beautiful way to honor family tradition and celebrate your legacy.
By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your gown looks as stunning as it did when your mother or mother-in-law first wore it. From checking its condition to making alterations and preserving it for the future, every step is essential in maintaining its timeless elegance.
Wishing you a beautiful and unforgettable wedding day! Enjoy every moment of your wedding day, knowing that your dress carries a rich history and sentimental value.
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