When one hears the word ‘prom,’ one thinks of loud music, a dark room, glittery dresses and black suits; items that are in high demand this time of year. However, there are many girls who may not be able to afford the expensive dresses that decorate the dance floor during prom night. 

Caroline Eidson decided to take on the role of providing a non-profit Re-dress sale, where she receives donated bridesmaid dresses or old prom dresses and gives them to girls for no cost at all. “I asked around and discovered that some students don’t attend prom (and other events) because their families can’t afford the attire. I think it’s important for all students to have access to fun and meaningful events. Not being able to purchase a dress shouldn’t keep someone from going to their prom.”

Eidson also reveals the background of Re-dress, when it began, and how it has progressed over the past couple of years. “We held our first pop-up shop in January 2017 and gave away 21 dresses in two days. That year we gave away over 200 dresses total. In 2019, we gave away over 350 dresses. Everyone who shops with us can take one dress, a pair of shoes, jewelry and a handbag for free. Most of our shoppers come from Fredericksburg, but we’ve had shoppers come from as far as Junction and Waco,” Eidson said.

Many girls find this outlet useful, as it’s easy to attend and helps them find a dress for prom, which might not have been the case without the Re-dress. Eidson’s Re-dress organization receives donations year round and has hundreds of dresses in storage, waiting to be given away. “I love seeing girls and women who don’t usually wear dresses or attend formal events find their dresses. Their smiles when they look in the mirror are the best part of what we do,” said Eidson. This year Re-dress was open April 6-8, 4:00-6:00 each day at the Hangar Hotel Conference Center (155 Airport Drive) in Fredericksburg. The organization gave away 131 dresses. Eidson hopes that girls in Fredericksburg and other neighboring cities felt that they found their special dress for their special night—prom.