As we went over where to start planning a green wedding in the last blog, we promise to dedicate an entire blog to attire. When planning a wedding, finding a wedding dress often is the first thing brides focus on. There is a sea of wedding dresses out there with, literally, millions of choices! So how do we find THE ONE gown that makes us look great while also doing some good for the environment? There are three points that should be considered when choosing an ethically sourced bridal dress. Let's dive in!

 

Ethical Sourced and Fair Trade

It is no doubt that there are millions of stunning gowns out there that will fulfill most brides' dream. And thanks to social media and the fashion industry, we are well updated with the latest trend and new dresses each season. The options are limitless, but at what cost? With a resounding 92 MILLION tons of waste per year, there is no doubt the fashion industry is taking its toll on the environment. 

So what does ethical source mean, and how to choose from these millions of choices?

According to Intertek, ethical sourcing "is the process of ensuring that the products made are obtained through responsible and sustainable methods." So when shopping for a wedding dress, you can do a quick check to make sure the brand/retailer you choose shares the same values as you based on these simple questions

1. What is the company's commitment to sustainability?
2. Do they practice fair trade?
3. Do you know where their dresses come from?
4. What materials do they use?

 

Materials

As many options for dresses, there are just as many fabric choices for a wedding gown. So when you look at a dress, look for what materials the dresses are made of. In general, natural fabric is easier on the environment than synthetic materials. So choose earth-friendly fabrics like hemp silk, cotton lace, or antique lace that is manufactured consciously, either in small batches or handcrafting each piece made-to-order. Keep in mind that the point is to minimize the impact, so if you can't choose a dress made of 100% sustainable materials, don't be discouraged. The rule of thumb is, the fewer synthetic materials, the better!

Via Twitter

Understandably, every bride wants to wear a unique, one-of-a-kind wedding gown on her big day. Nowadays, eco-brides can choose to wear vintage, preowned, or rent wedding dresses. 

Renting instead of buying?

 

Via JJ's House

If you haven't decided whether or not you want to own or rent your wedding gown, here are some questions that might be able to help you make the decision.

1. Why do you want to own your dress? 
2. Does your budget include the cost for dry-cleaning and maintaining the dress?
3. Do you have closet space to keep it after the wedding? Or do you have a plan to reuse/resell the dress?

Renting your wedding gown is a new option that an eco-bride can take advantage of nowadays. Renting at a fraction of the retail price and "no strings attached," with no cost for alterations, cleaning, or maintaining. 

 

Overall, planning the wedding with sustainability in mind will guide you to plan with intention. And while shopping for your wedding dress, see if the dress is from an ethical source with materials friendly to the environment and if renting is an option for you. Lastly, remember to have fun!