With the average American bridal dress costing over $1,000, you want to make sure you look after and care for your wedding dress before and after your big day. Many people may expect this caring and storing article to be aimed at for those who are wanting to store their wedding dresses (not just the dress but also the accessories such as the wedding veil, wedding petticoat, wedding shoes and wedding flowers) after you’ve worn it, however, if you buy your dress months before the special day, then you’re going to have to take care of it to the best of your ability. It’s one of the most amazing and tangible items from your wedding day, so you have to be careful with it and keep it in as best shape as possible. We know it’s difficult trying to maintain and preserve your dress, but it will be worth it in the end. Perhaps your daughter will wear it on her wedding day, or the dress could be used to make a christening gown for your granddaughter in many years to come.
Read over our tips below on how to care, store and maintain your wedding dress to ensure you’re not disappointed with how it looks in a few years. This applies to dresses of all prices and types, even if you opted for a more affordable dress from a retailer like JJ’s House, these tips should still work for you!
Keep it Hanging Vertically
This applies to both before and after wearing your dress on your big day, keeping your dress hanging rather than folded will ensure there are no unwanted creases and it stays in pristine care. You can often purchase special hangers from boutiques that will keep your dress in its original shape rather than allow it to become misshapen. This is essential before your wedding day as you want it too look amazing on the day and fit you in all the right places. Hang it by the hoops located on the inside of the dress rather than the shoulder straps to avoid stretching and sagging.
Use a Garment Bag
As well as hanging it up, wrap your dress in a garment bag. Plastic can trap moisture if it’s exposed to it which may mean your wedding dress collates mold and mildew. Even if you’ve opted for one of those unique mermaid wedding dresses, they all need care and storing your dress in the original garment bag will ensure it stays looking as good as the day you bought it.
Leave Cleaning to the Experts
After your big day, don’t attempt to clean your wedding dress yourself. This is a tricky process that may end in a disaster. One small wrong move and everything could be ruined. Professionally treat any stains by getting your dress cleaned after the big day and don’t try to sort it out yourself as it could make it worse.
Consider Getting it Sealed
Some companies offer a vacuum sealed package in which they ensure the ultimate storage for your wedding dress. This is a method used by museums, but you can definitely look into it if you want to preserve your dress in its best shape. The sealing method does have some limitations that you would have to check out before going ahead though.
Remember, it’s never too late to preserve your wedding dress! Even if you got married many years ago, get your dress professionally cleaned and store it correctly – you’ll never have to worry about it again.
