Great Ideas for Decorating with Dresses

Sweet, sexy, or frilly - many dresses are like a work of art. So, why not treat them like one? Hang them up and enjoy them. From children's dresses to your favorite frock, you can use dresses to decorate your spaces. Let me show you how.

• Christening Dresses

I've always had a soft spot for sweet little christening dresses. The ruffles, lace and ribbon are just too beautiful to pack away in a closet or dresser drawer forever. That's why I vote that all christening dresses be hung on a white satin hanger and hung on the wall for everyone to see. Create a make-shift display with an old window in a shabby chic finish as an adorable backdrop for the dress and it will grace the room with a soft splendor.

• Party or Holiday Outfits

A little girl's party or holiday outfit is something you carefully select and she proudly wears. Gather the dress, hat, purse, shoes or gloves that complete the ensemble and mount them in a grouping on the wall of her room. Not only are they delightful, but they will give her a sense of belonging and a story you can share about when she wore them and how much fun she had that day.

• Everyday Treasures

Don't neglect the everyday dresses your little one dons at play or to soak up the sunshine. Create a full-wall art display by painting the wall with two different colors, separating the colors with a chair rail and then installing a row of kiddie dresses on decorative hangers and hooks. Just select outfits that complement the room's decor to make the display a personal work of art.

• Themed Dresses

Do you have an Asian-inspired space in your home? Maybe you have a little slice of Paris in your office. Add to the theme by displaying a complementary dress in the space. You can hang the garment on a wall or display it in a corner on a dress form. Add a hat or other apparel items to make it a stand out focal point and conversation piece in your room.

• Framed Frocks

Sometimes we own dresses so precious or valuable to us, they just need to be framed. Don't miss the opportunity to make them a decorative element in your home. Fancy frames and glass can keep them safely preserved and you can proudly display your piece as art without worry that it will get soiled or disturbed.

Check out pictures and inspiration for this article in the Decorating with Dresses ideabook on Houzz. Decorating with dresses can be budget-friendly and easier than you think.

Enjoy more home decor ideas from Terry Mulligan:

10 Tips to Take Your Next Decorating Project Over the Top
Fabulous Choices for Decorating with Throw Pillows
Budget-Friendly Dollar Store Finds Anyone Can Decorate With