WHAT TO DO WITH OLD BRIDESMAID DRESSES? 10 CREATIVE WAYS

 

Being a bridesmaid is an honour, but what happens to the bridesmaid dresses once the wedding festivities are over? Rather than letting them gather dust in the back of your closet, why not find creative ways to repurpose and breathe new life into these cherished garments? In this article, we will explore ten imaginative and practical ways to give old bridesmaid dresses a fresh purpose, allowing you to cherish the memories while embracing sustainability and creativity.

 

Alter and Restyle

If you're handy with a sewing machine or have a talented tailor nearby, consider altering and restyling the bridesmaid dress. Shorten the hemline, remove sleeves, or add embellishments to transform it into a chic cocktail dress or a stylish summer ensemble. With a few alterations, you can create a unique garment that reflects your personal style and can be worn on multiple occasions.

 

Donate or Gift

Consider donating your old bridesmaid dress to a charitable organization or passing it on to someone in need. Many organizations accept formal attire for various events, such as proms or weddings, providing an opportunity for those with limited resources to wear a beautiful dress on their special day. Alternatively, if you know someone who would appreciate the dress, consider gifting it to them as a kind gesture.

 

Create a Memory Quilt

Transform your bridesmaid dresses into a beautiful memory quilt that captures the essence of the wedding day. Cut the dresses into squares or various shapes, and sew them together to create a patchwork quilt. This unique keepsake will not only preserve the memories of the wedding but also serve as a cozy and sentimental addition to your home décor.

 

Make Fashionable Accessories

Unleash your creativity by repurposing the fabric from your bridesmaid dress into fashionable accessories. Create hair accessories, such as headbands or bows, or craft a stylish clutch or purse. The fabric's colour and texture can add a touch of elegance to your ensemble, and it's a great way to showcase your unique style.

 

Upcycle into Home Décor

Give your bridesmaid dress a new purpose by upcycling it into stunning home décor pieces. The fabric can be transformed into decorative pillow covers, curtain panels, or even a table runner. This not only adds a personal touch to your living space but also allows you to cherish the memories associated with the dress every time you see it.

 

Donate to Costume or Theatre Departments

Consider donating your bridesmaid dress to local costume departments or theatre groups. These organizations are often in need of unique garments for productions and can breathe new life into your dress by incorporating it into their creative performances. It's a wonderful way to support the arts while giving your dress a chance to shine on stage.

 

Create a Fashionable Skirt

If your bridesmaid dress has a voluminous skirt, consider transforming it into a fashionable separate. Remove the bodice, add a waistband, and voila! You have a stylish skirt that can be paired with a variety of tops for different occasions. By repurposing the dress in this way, you'll extend its wearability and create a versatile piece for your wardrobe.

 

Sew Baby Clothes or Doll Outfits

Give your bridesmaid dress a new lease on life by sewing adorable baby clothes or doll outfits. The fabric's softness and intricate details make it perfect for creating tiny dresses, rompers, or doll clothes. Whether you're making a gift for a friend's new born or simply indulging your inner child, this creative project allows you to repurpose the dress in a heart-warming and imaginative way.

 

Organza Flowers and Accessories

If your bridesmaid dress features organza fabric, consider creating delicate fabric flowers or accessories. Cut the fabric into petal shapes, layer them, and secure with a button or bead to create a charming flower brooch or hair accessory. These handmade accessories add a touch of whimsy and elegance to any outfit.

 

Host a Dress Swap or Fashion Party

Gather your friends who have old bridesmaid dresses and host a dress swap or fashion party. Encourage everyone to bring their unwanted dresses, and let the fun begin! Participants can try on different dresses, mix and match accessories, and leave with a new outfit or two. It's a fantastic way to revitalize your wardrobe while spending quality time with friends.

 

Conclusion

 

Old bridesmaid dresses deserve a second chance at life. Rather than relegating them to the depths of your closet, explore these ten creative ideas to repurpose and transform them into something new and meaningful. From altering and restyling to upcycling into home décor or creating fashionable accessories, the possibilities are endless. By embracing these creative ways to give old bridesmaid dresses a fresh purpose, you'll not only reduce waste but also add a touch of personal flair to your life.