How to Care for and Preserve Your Prom Dress

Listen, we get it - after all the dancing, photos, and unforgettable memories, your prom dress probably saw more action in one night than most clothes do in a year! And while the party might be over, that gorgeous Ellie Wilde dress of yours definitely deserves a second act. Whether you’re saving it for sentimental reasons, planning to pass it down, or even considering repurposing it for another glam event, taking care of your prom dress is the key to keeping the magic alive. 

Here’s your go-to guide for caring for and preserving your prom dress like the prom queen you are! 

Step 1: Treat Stains Like an Emergency (Because They Are)
That tiny splash of punch? A little foundation on the neckline? Treat every stain like it’s trying to crash the party. The faster you act, the better your odds. If your prom night hasn’t ended yet and you spot a spill, gently blot (don’t rub!) the area with a clean cloth. When you get home, check the care label and if in doubt, take it straight to a professional cleaner - preferably one with experience in formalwear. We know it’s the last thing you feel like doing, so try to do yourself a favor by laying out the materials you’ll need before you even head out to prom so you can get home, grab a cloth and blot, and crash! 

Pro tip: If you take it to a professional, tell the cleaner exactly what the stain is (wine, makeup, etc.) - it helps them choose the right treatment!

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Step 2: Get It Professionally Cleaned ASAP Even if it looks clean, perfumes, sweat, and body oils can leave invisible marks that cause discoloration over time. So don’t let it sit in the back of your closet collecting dust and regrets. Schedule that dry-cleaning appointment within a few days of prom, and make sure they know how to handle delicate fabrics like tulle, satin, or sequins.   Step 3: Skip the Hanger - Go for the Wrap Hangers are great for your everyday wardrobe, but your prom dress deserves VIP treatment. Hanging it long-term can cause the fabric to stretch, especially if it’s a heavy gown. Instead, carefully fold it with tissue paper between layers and place it in a breathable, acid-free garment bag or storage box. No plastic bags, please - they can trap moisture and lead to mildew.   Step 4: Store It Like It’s a Treasure Find a cool, dry, and dark spot - closets or under-bed containers are great if they’re away from sunlight and humidity. Avoid basements and attics, unless you want your dress to star in a horror story titled The Dress That Time Forgot.

Step 5: Repurpose, Rewear, or Just Reminisce
Not ready to say goodbye forever? We don’t blame you! Consider rewearing your dress to another event like homecoming or have it altered into a new design for a totally fresh look. Or, keep it just the way it is for the sweet memories and future storytime with your friends!

You chose the perfect Ellie Wilde gown for prom night - why not give it the care it deserves after the last dance? With a little TLC, your dress will stay as stunning as it was the night you wore it.