Rhiannon Hendricks
Wedding dress alterations are a common occurrence, with seamstresses and bridal stylists working with brides to ensure the perfect fit. The number of fittings varies, but most sources recommend a minimum of two fittings, with three being preferable to ensure the dress is perfectly tailored. The complexity and cost of alterations depend on the desired changes, with some salons charging per service and others a flat fee. While it is best to start the alteration process early, seamstresses can work with shorter timelines, and the final fitting is ideally scheduled no earlier than two weeks before the wedding.
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What You'll Learn
How much does it cost to alter a wedding dress?
The cost of altering a wedding dress varies depending on several factors, including the complexity of the alterations, the skill level of the tailor or seamstress, the number of fittings, and the location. On average, wedding dress alterations can range from $50 to $1,000 or more.
Some boutiques and seamstresses charge a flat rate for all standard alterations, which can range from $500 to $900, ensuring a perfect fit. This option may be preferable for those who want peace of mind and don't want to worry about additional costs for each alteration.
On the other hand, some professionals charge per service, with prices varying based on the type of alteration. For example, shortening a gown can cost around $225, while resewing seams may be around $150. Hemming a wedding dress typically falls between $70 and $280, depending on the skirt style, fabric, and embellishments. Adding a bustle can cost anywhere from $10 to $200, with the price increasing for more attachment points. Other standard alterations, such as adding a zipper, bra straps, buttons, or slits, can range from $20 to $100.
More extensive design changes can significantly impact the overall cost. Redesigning a family heirloom gown or making significant changes to the silhouette can exceed $1,000. Alterations involving intricate beading, lace, or delicate fabrics like silk or satin will also be more expensive due to the intricate hand stitching required.
It's important to plan alterations well in advance, usually 4-5 months before the wedding, as seamstresses tend to get fully booked during the wedding season. Booking closer to the date may result in additional rush fees of over $25 per service. Additionally, bringing your wedding-day shoes and undergarments to the fittings is crucial for achieving the perfect fit.
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How many fittings are needed?
The number of fittings needed for a used wedding dress to be altered a second time will depend on the complexity of the alterations, the extent of the changes, and the seamstress's schedule. It is recommended that brides have at least two to three fittings, with the possibility of a fourth or more if extensive customizations are required.
The first fitting typically lasts about an hour, as the tailor or seamstress assesses the dress and the alterations needed. It is important to bring the shoes and undergarments that will be worn on the wedding day to this appointment, as they can impact the fit of the gown. Subsequent fittings will take less time, usually between 30 to 60 minutes, as the dress gets closer to the perfect fit.
The timeline for fittings can vary depending on the bride's preferences and the complexity of the alterations. It is recommended to schedule the first fitting two to three months before the wedding, with subsequent fittings spaced out in the following weeks. The final fitting should take place no later than one to two weeks before the wedding to allow for any last-minute modifications.
Vintage and antique dresses may require more fittings, up to six, depending on the amount of work required. This includes upsizing the dress, reinforcing dry-rotted fabrics, or sourcing vintage fabrics and lace for repairs.
It is important to note that the cost of alterations can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the work, the fabric type, and any additional embellishments. It is recommended to consult with a reputable alterations specialist to receive an accurate estimate.
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What to bring to a fitting
A used wedding dress can be altered for a second time, but the possibilities will depend on the amount of fabric available and the complexity of the desired changes. To ensure a successful fitting, there are several items you should bring along.
Firstly, the right underwear is essential. Bring a good-quality strapless bra in a colour that matches your skin tone. If you plan to wear shapewear, bring that too, ensuring it complements the design elements of your dress, such as a plunging neckline or low back.
Secondly, shoes are crucial. Bring the exact pair you plan to wear on your wedding day, or, if you don't have them yet, bring a pair with the same heel height. This is important because the length of your dress will be adjusted based on your shoe height and hemline preferences.
Thirdly, accessories can also play a significant role in your fitting. If you have a veil, tiara, hair accessories, or jewellery, bring them along to help map out your final look. While these items are not mandatory, they can help you envision how everything will come together.
Additionally, it is recommended to bring a small bottle of water, as the fitting process can be lengthy, and you will need to stand for most of it. Bringing a notebook and pen to jot down notes about further alterations, collection dates, and other details can also be helpful.
Remember, the number of fittings you'll need will depend on the extent of the changes required. Typically, brides have two to three fittings, with each subsequent fitting taking less time as the dress gets closer to the perfect fit.
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When to schedule a fitting
Scheduling a fitting for a used wedding dress alteration is crucial to ensure the perfect fit for the big day. While the number of fittings may vary depending on the changes required, here is a general timeline to follow when scheduling your appointments:
First Fitting
The first fitting is typically scheduled eight to twelve weeks before the wedding. This appointment usually lasts about an hour, as the tailor assesses the dress and the alterations needed. It is important to bring your wedding shoes and undergarments to this fitting to ensure accurate marking for the hem and bustle. During this appointment, the tailor may also discuss any concerns and custom change requests.
Second Fitting
The second fitting can be scheduled three to four weeks after the first, depending on the complexity of the alterations. This appointment will involve further adjustments to the dress, such as fine-tuning the bodice and making necessary modifications. The bride should have a better idea of how the gown will fit by this fitting.
Third Fitting
If a third fitting is required, it is usually scheduled one to two weeks before the wedding. This appointment allows the seamstress to make any last-minute adjustments to ensure the dress is perfect. It is important to finalise the alterations at this stage to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Final Fitting
The final fitting is typically scheduled no later than two weeks before the wedding. This appointment ensures that the dress fits the bride perfectly and allows for any necessary fine-tuning. It is important to bring all your wedding-day accessories to this fitting to get a true sense of the final look.
It is worth noting that the timeline for alterations can vary depending on the seamstress's schedule and the complexity of the alterations. It is always best to book your appointments in advance and communicate any weight fluctuations to your tailor to ensure a smooth and stress-free process.
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What happens at each fitting
The number of fittings for a wedding dress typically ranges from two to four. The first fitting usually involves an assessment of the dress and the bride's desired alterations, with subsequent fittings making progressive adjustments until the final fitting, where the bride tries on the dress one last time and takes it home.
During the first fitting, the bride meets the fitter or seamstress, who will be with her during every fitting until her wedding day. The bride can discuss any concerns or desired alterations with the seamstress, who may also offer advice on undergarments. The seamstress will then pin the dress so that the bride can visualise the desired fit. This first appointment typically lasts about an hour.
At the second fitting, the bride should have a better idea of how the gown will fit. The tailor may review bustle options and adjust the bodice, making further changes to the fabric and silhouette. The bride should bring her wedding shoes to this fitting to ensure the most accurate marking for the hem and bustle.
If a third fitting is required, the seamstress will fine-tune any last-minute modifications to ensure the dress is perfect. This may include taking in the dress if the bride has lost weight or opening the seams and releasing extra fabric if the bride has gained weight.
A fourth fitting may be necessary for some brides, where the dress is tried on one last time and then taken home. It is recommended that the final fitting takes place no earlier than two weeks before the wedding.
It is important to note that the timeline and number of fittings may vary depending on the complexity of the alterations and the skill level of the seamstress.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, a used wedding dress can be altered more than once. The number of fittings will depend on the complexity of the changes and the skill of the seamstress.
Wedding dress alterations can cost anywhere from \$50 to \$1,000. The price will depend on the type of alterations requested and the seamstress's skill level.
The alteration process can take anywhere from two to three months. It is recommended to schedule the first fitting eight to twelve weeks before the wedding and the final fitting no later than two weeks before.
In addition to the dress, it is recommended to bring the shoes and undergarments you will be wearing on your wedding day. This will ensure a proper fit and accurate marking for the hem and bustle.
