Tips for buyers

• Is the gown in good condition?
• Was the gown dry cleaned and when?
• Has the gown been altered?
• What was the original size?
• What was altered on the gown? E.g. bodice, waist, length etc.
• Is there seam allowance for further alterations?
• How old is the gown?
• Where did it come from? E.g. Bridal House, custom made.
• What is included in the sale? E.g. hoop, veil, tiara
• If the hoop is not included, does the gown need a hoop and what size do you need?
• Is the price negotiable? 

• Always take someone with you when you go to look at a gown. Someone who will give you a honest opinion and keep you on track with the look you are after and the budget. Also keep in mind your safety at all times. P.S don’t take a mob of people with you, try to find a baby sitter if you have children. Remember this is someone’s home.

• It sounds obvious but make sure you shower before you go to look at a gown and do not wear make up. The seller will not be happy for you to try on their gown if you have just come from the gym or you have 6”s of make up on.

• Wear appropriate underwear / shoes. Even if you don’t have the shoes and underwear that you plan to wear on the day take some thing similar in style/height. It will give you a better idea of how it will look.

• Be prepared to have the owner of the gown, help with the fitting. As it still belongs to her and was an expensive item for her to purchase.

• Check to see if the gown has a good amount of seem allowance (check side seem of skirt, 2cm each side of seem is good) as it is very unlikely that the gown will fit like a glove. Even with new gowns 99% of ladies have to have alterations done. If the zip can not be done up, I suggest that you look at having the zip removed and changed to a lace up (the fabric for the change is usually taken from the train, there by reducing the train).

• The length of the gown can be an issue. You can always shorten the gown but adding length is not always possible. For extra length; check the hem for allowances, perhaps use a smaller hoop than previously used and last but not least, flat shoes.

• If you fall in love with a gown and are unsure about the fit. Ask the seller if you can take lots of photos of the whole gown and problem areas and go and speak with an experienced (in bridal gowns) alterations person. This way you will find out if the alterations are possible and how much it will cost you.