Friday, April 22, 2011

Eco-bride: Down to the dress

WEDDING DRESS. I'm not going to lie, the word kinda freaks me out right now. I start my dream dress search tomorrow morning and since I'm picky and somewhat judgemental, I'm nervous as all get out. What makes it worse is the fact I hate shopping with other people; trying things on, sorting through racks, trying to please others, just the thought makes me cringe. And I can't go dress shopping on my own so I'm bringing my traditional mother, hip Nannie (don't call her grandma or she will not speak to you) and my sister (MOH) who doesn't have an opinion on much. A great group huh?

I DIGRESS.

Back to the matter of business? Dresses. A consignment dress is one way to go green. However, used dresses make me a bit nervy even though I love the idea. It's kinda nice to own a dress that someone else wore. It was the biggest day of their life and now you get a little piece of it, regardless of it's history. Make sure you are purchasing from a reputable seller by checking their reviews.

these are available at Eco-Bride

Okay, so you found a dress but you're not quite in love with it. Work with a local seamstress (that you KNOW is a good seamstress- do your research) to make the dress fit you perfectly. Don't forget that adding a belt can completely alter the look of a dress. Honestly, who needs a perfect dress when everyone is going to be blown away by your pairing it with a dramatic flower sash or rhinestone belt? 

Still want a new dress? It's okay and no one judges you. Look for dresses made of natural material like silk, hemp, or organic cotton. I love the eco-couture lines by Adel Wechsler. The dresses are made with organic hemp and silk, vegetable dyed, and notorious for using remnant fabrics.