What To Do With Your Old Prom Dress

Prom night is undoubtedly one of the most special nights in every young girl or boy’s life. It’s one of those special experiences that you only get once but usually end up cherishing forever. And a big part of that is your dress or tuxedo. Picking out the outfit you’re going to wear when you walk into prom is pretty much an American milestone, which is why we often save these clothing items for many years to come. Eventually, though, there will come a day when you realize that your old prom dress is doing nothing for you but gathering dust. If you have reached that point, and aren’t too sentimental about parting with it, here are some things you can do with your old prom ensemble.

Firstly, you can donate it. While many teens deliberate over which dress they’re going to wear on prom night, there are those who stay at home because they can’t afford to buy one. Organizations like Project G.L.A.M. and Becca’s closet accept old dresses, which are then donated to students in need. Operation Prom is a similar organization, but they accept both suits and dresses. Or, you can always bring your items to secondhand stores like Goodwill or Savers, who will sell them to someone at an affordable price. Another option to consider if you’d like to give your old prom outfit away is to donate it to a friend who needs one.

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If you’re looking to make some money while finding your prom dress or tuxedo a new home, there are plenty of apps you can use. Poshmark, Depop, and Mercari are just a few. You probably won’t get a full refund, as these apps do take a portion of the sale, but you’ll still earn a bit of cash. Also, you’ll feel great knowing that your clothing won’t be going to waste.

Another option to consider before donating or selling your prom dress or tuxedo is whether you can perhaps re-wear it. Maybe you’d like to save the ensemble for another formal event in your life, like a fancy dinner party or a good friend’s wedding. Or, you can have the dress totally revamped into a more casual piece, by removing any extra ribbons or embellishments, or perhaps trimming it into a mini dress. Whatever you choose to do with your prom night garments, you’ll always have the memories in your heart, and those last forever.