For more than 70 years, thousands of brides have traveled to Kleinfeld Bridal in New York City to find their wedding day looks. From the moment you walk through the doors, you’ll feel the magic of Kleinfeld. Not only does Kleinfeld have 30,000 square feet filled with the largest selection of wedding dresses in the world, it also has the greatest professional staff of over 200 employees who are dedicated to finding and perfecting your bridal look.
Selling your wedding gown can be both a practical and rewarding decision. Whether you’re looking to recoup some costs or simply want to give your dress a new life, pricing it correctly is crucial for a quick sale. This guide will walk you through the process of determining the right price for your wedding gown.
1. Assess the Original Cost and Condition
The first step in pricing your wedding gown is to consider its original cost and current condition. Typically, pre-owned wedding dresses sell for 40-60% of their original retail price depending on various factors.
- Original price: Start by recalling how much you paid for the dress.
- Condition: Evaluate your gown’s condition honestly. Is it in pristine condition or does it have minor wear and tear?
- Alterations: Consider any alterations made to the dress which might affect its resale value.
2. Research the Market
Understanding the current market for pre-owned wedding gowns is crucial for competitive pricing.
- Check online marketplaces: Look at platforms like Kleinfeld Again, Still White, PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com, or eBay to see prices for similar dresses.
- Consider the designer: Some designer names hold their value better than others.
- Look at local consignment shops: This can give you an idea of prices in your area.
3. Important Factors
Both the age, condition, and designer brand of your wedding gown can significantly impact its resale value.
- Age: Dresses purchased within the last 2-3 years typically fetch higher prices while gowns more than 5 years old might need to be priced lower unless they’re timeless or vintage styles.
- Condition: A well-maintained dress in excellent condition can command a higher price regardless of age. Consider factors like stains, tears, or loose beading when setting your price.
- Brand Value: Consider the reputation and desirability of the gown’s designer or brand. Well-known luxury bridal brands often retain their value better and can command higher resale prices.
4. Consider Seasonality and Trends
The wedding industry has seasons and trends that can affect your gown’s desirability.
- Peak wedding seasons: Prices might be higher during popular wedding months (June, September, October).
- Style trends: If your dress aligns with current bridal trends, you might be able to price it higher.
5. Include Extras in the Price
If you’re including any accessories or extras with the gown, factor these into your pricing strategy.
- Veils, belts, or jewelry: These can add value to your package.
- Preservation: If your dress has been professionally cleaned and preserved, mention this in your listing as it can justify a higher price.
6. Set a Competitive Price
After considering all factors, set a price that’s competitive yet fair.
- Start slightly higher: Price your gown slightly above your ideal selling price to allow room for negotiation.
- Be prepared to adjust: If you don’t get any inquiries after a few weeks, consider lowering the price.
7. Highlight the Value
When listing your gown, emphasize features that justify your asking price.
- Describe in detail: When selling your wedding dress, mention the designer, silhouette, style, size, and any special features or customizations that make your bridal gown unique.
- Quality photos: For selling bridal gowns effectively, include clear, well-lit photos of the dress from various angles to showcase its beauty.
- Tell your dress’s story: When selling bridal dresses, sharing the emotional appeal or your own love story can sometimes justify a higher price to the right buyer.
When you decide to sell your wedding gown, finding the right balance between market awareness and personal expectations is crucial. By following these guidelines and being flexible with your pricing strategy, you’ll increase your chances of finding a buyer who appreciates your gown as much as you did on your special day!
Remember, the key to successfully selling used bridal dresses is not just in the pricing, but also in how you present and market your gown. With the right approach to sell your wedding gown, you can ensure your beloved dress finds a new home while also recovering some of your investment.