I (27F) got married two years ago in a gorgeous lace wedding dress that I absolutely love. It holds a lot of sentimental value, and I plan to keep it as a cherished keepsake.
Recently, my cousin “Tina” (25F) got engaged and started planning her wedding. While we’re not super close, we see each other at family events and get along just fine.
A few weeks ago, Tina asked me if I still had my wedding dress. I said yes, thinking she just wanted to see it for inspiration. To my surprise, she told me she “fell in love with it” and wanted to wear it for her wedding.
I was caught off guard and politely told her no. I explained that the dress is very special to me, and I’d like to keep it. Tina seemed upset but dropped the subject—or so I thought.
Fast forward to this week, and Tina brought it up again—this time with backup. My aunt (her mom) called me, saying I was being selfish for “hoarding a dress I’ll never wear again.” She even offered to pay for alterations to make it fit Tina. I reiterated my no, explaining again that the dress holds deep sentimental value.
Now Tina is telling the entire family that I’m being petty and ruining her dream wedding because she can’t afford a new dress as beautiful as mine. My mom has suggested I let her borrow the dress to “keep the peace,” but I feel like this crosses a boundary.
The family group chat has blown up, with people taking sides. Some say I’m selfish for not sharing the dress, while others think Tina is being entitled. My husband has been supportive, telling me it’s my dress and my decision, but all the drama has me second-guessing myself.
So, AITA for refusing to let my cousin wear my wedding dress?
