Wedding Dress Protection and Care – Before, During, and After Your Big Day

One of the most important things on your wedding day is that your dress is in perfect and pristine condition as you prepare to walk down the aisle. The groom and the guests are all anticipating the big reveal of the stunning bride and the last thing you want is a make-up stain on your white strap to take away from your glowing grin.

So, let’s talk about a few tips and tricks to prevent this. After all, it’s not JUST the big day we have to be worried about here. There is the storage of your dress, your bridal photo shoot, and the preservation aspect when all is said and done. Here are some suggestions to keep your wedding dress clean during all the festivities so that long after the day is done you have a bridal gown that still looks as beautiful as it did the day you first tried it on.

Storage

When it comes to storing your dress before the wedding be sure to keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place. Avoid any moisture.

Some say it is best to store your dress vertically to relieve pressure from the straps of the dress. Others suggest that storing the dress horizontally on a padded hanger (using the hanger loops of course) is best and causes less wrinkling. I say do what works best for your dress and your living situation.

The garment bags that most dresses come in are synthetic and ideal for transport as they will repel dirt and moisture. These bags are not ideal for long-term storage. Instead, cover the gown in a breathable fabric like a cotton garment bag or a clean white cotton sheet. The main concern when storing the dress in a breathable fabric is the smells that could come in contact with the dress. If you live in a small studio apartment and the kitchen is only a few feet from where the dress is being stored, it is best to avoid cooking as smells could become trapped in the fabric. Now, I don’t know about you but, I would rather not smell like spicy curry on my special day - just something to be conscious of. ;)

Bridals

Whether you’re having your bridals taken indoors at your wedding venue, or outside at a beautiful destination, (sometimes they are one in the same) there are lots of different elements that we need to be prepared for. One dress-saving item that is ideal for destination photoshoots is a bedsheet. Hear me out here...A bed sheet that is the same color as your dress can easily be hidden beneath you. Whether you are going to be seated on a wet log or standing on a red rock cliff, a sheet can definitely go unnoticed and give your dress the protection it needs. #bridehacks

To prevent your dress from picking up unwanted debris such as dust and dirt that may cause staining, spray a stain protectant on the bottom hem of your dress. A bridal petticoat or bustle is also a great option to assist with keeping your dress from dragging too heavily on the ground.

The dress should be the final step in your ‘getting ready’ process. After your make-up and hair are done spray your favorite perfume or body spray on your skin BEFORE stepping into your dress to prevent any staining that may occur from the alcohol and/or dyes in the fragrance. Notice I said “stepping into your dress”. THIS. IS. A. MUST. The last thing you want to do is pull the gown over your impeccable hair and risk staining your dress with make-up. Trust me on this one. If there isn’t a member of your bridal party ready to assist, I’ve got your back. ;)

Gown Preservation

After your wedding, before you head off on the honeymoon of your dreams, ask one of your bridesmaids or a family member to drop your dress off at a reputable dry cleaner to have it professionally cleaned before any stains start to set in.

When it comes to long-term storage if your dress is on the heavier side and full of embellishments, it is best to avoid hanging as this can lead to stretching of the fabric over time. Instead, you may want to consider purchasing a conservation grade box or container. Line the box with a white sheet or tissue and store it under a bed, at the top of a closet, or really anywhere that stays cool, dry, and dark.

Worried about yellowing?

MYTHBUSTER!!! Yellowing and/or discoloration only occur when the dress comes in contact with other chemicals such as sweat. If stored away from moisture in general you shouldn’t see any yellowing over time.

Keep that beautiful wedding dress pristine with these tips! Other ideas? Let's hear them!

Happy Planning, Lovers!