Say Yes to the Dress — Again: Why Consigning Your Wedding Gown is a Beautiful, Sustainable Choice

Weddings are magical — but let’s be honest, they can also be wildly expensive and incredibly wasteful. Between the one-time use décor, excess packaging, and yes — that stunning dress worn just once — the environmental impact adds up fast.

At Reclaimed, we believe your wedding style doesn’t have to come at the cost of your values (or your budget).

Sustainability, One Dress at a Time

Here’s the thing: the fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, and formalwear plays a quiet role in that cycle.

• The average wedding dress uses up to 15 yards of fabric, much of it synthetic and non-biodegradable.

• Over 2.1 million weddings take place in the U.S. every year — and most of those dresses are worn once and stored indefinitely.

• Less than 15% of clothing is recycled or reused. The rest ends up in landfills or incinerated.

  
  

Consigning your gown gives it a second walk down the aisle and dramatically reduces its environmental footprint. It’s a simple but powerful way to be part of a more circular, conscious approach to fashion.

Affordability Without Sacrificing Style

Weddings aren’t just emotionally expensive — they’re financially overwhelming, too.

• The average wedding gown in the U.S. costs between $1,600 and $2,500.

• And that’s before alterations, accessories, or cleaning.

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For many brides, that price tag simply isn’t realistic — especially for a dress they’ll wear for just a few hours.

Shopping consignment offers the same designer looks and dreamy details for a fraction of the cost, with gowns typically 40–70% less than retail. For the original owner, it’s a chance to earn back some of the investment while passing the dress on with purpose.

It’s Not Just a Dress — It’s a Movement

More and more brides are embracing thoughtful choices — shopping locally, supporting women-owned businesses, and reducing their environmental impact. Consigning (or shopping consignment) is one small step that makes a real difference — and one that doesn’t require giving up a single ounce of beauty or meaning.

At Reclaimed, we make the process easy, supportive, and celebratory. Whether you’re letting go of your gown or searching for the one, you’re part of something beautiful — and smart.

Ready to consign or shop our growing bridal collection? Visit us in Pottersville or email me at Wendi@reclaimedNJ.store

to learn more.