RecycledBride

Size Matters

Find a Recycled dress that’s a perfect fit with this sizing checklist.

• Check the seller’s “street size.” Each Recycled Bride wedding dress listing shows two sizes: the seller’s street size, and the size on the gown’s label. Street size is just the seller’s regular clothing size. Because wedding dress sizing varies from one manufacturer to another, it’s best to use street size as your guide.
• Go big. It’s okay to buy a dress that’s a few sizes too large for you. A tailor or seamstress can easily take a dress in, but it’s nearly impossible to increase the size of a dress that’s too small. Look for length. Is the wedding dress you’re eyeing long enough? Remember to add a few inches to your height measurement if you plan to wear heels.
• Measure up. If the Recycled dress you’re interested in has been altered to fit the previous owner, check her measurements against your own to make sure there’s enough room in the waist, bust and hips. You can use a flexible tape measure to take your own measurements, or visit local tailor, who will usually offer complimentary measurements.

All About Alterations

Everything you need to know about wedding dress alterations and tailoring.

• Bridal salons work differently then regular clothing stores. When you purchase a dress, you don’t get the gown you tried on (unless you buy the sample). Your measurements are taken and your dress is ordered from the manufacturer, who doesn’t custom make it, but cuts it to the size that’s closest to yours.
• Wedding dresses are cut to fit an “ideal” figure, which means that your largest body part determines your dress size, and the rest of the gown will come in a pre-cut shape. So if you’re hippy (like us) or busty (lucky you) or thick-waisted, or your shape deviates in any way from the manufacturer’s ideal figure, you’ll need alterations.
• Yes — Even if you buy a brand-new wedding gown, you’ll need alterations. We think it’s important to consider this, especially if you’re still not sure whether to buy a new wedding dress or one that’s Recycled.
• Be creative. Wedding dress elements like straps, sashes, bows and sleeves can be added and removed with ease. So expand your Recycled Bride searches to include dresses in lots of shapes and styles, and see which could be altered to suit you. Wedding dresses are like husbands — even "the one" may require a few small changes.
• Choose a tailor or seamstress who specializes in bridalwear. They’ll have the fabrics, tools and know-how that are necessary for wedding dress alterations.

Before You Buy

Best practices for smart Recycled Bride dress shopping.

• Do some research by going to local bridal shops to try on wedding dresses. You’ll probably find that one designer’s gowns, or a specific silhouette or neckline, is the most flattering on you. Check Recyled Bride for similar or identical styles. Many of the same expensive designer dresses that you see in stores are available now on Recycled Bride for half the price.
• Look for wedding dresses made from high-quality fabrics by reputable designers. They’ll look and feel better than those made from cheaper materials, which tend to wrinkle, bunch, bulge and shift on the body. Whether it’s made of light-as-air chiffon or heavy dupioni silk, your gown should maintain its shape and integrity. Your fiancee isn’t cheap and shifty so why should your dress be?
• Timing is everything. Don’t buy a dress too far in advance of your wedding day, or before you have a confirmed wedding date and location. It’s important to know whether your wedding will be on a beach or in a church, in winter or summer, formal or casual, before you can choose the right gown. But you’ll need time for fittings, so don’t wait until the last minute. The ideal time to buy a dress is 6-9 months before your wedding.
• Know the Terms of Sale before you buy. Some sellers may allow you to return a dress if you’re not satisfied. If returns are permitted, make sure to take great care with the dress. Wash your hands before trying it on, and don’t let the hem touch a dirty floor. See our Buyer’s FAQ and Buying Tips for more information about making safe and easy purchases on Recycled Bride.