Junior Rasmussen
Wedding dresses are often altered to achieve a perfect fit. The most common alteration is hemming the length of the dress to ensure the bride can walk, dance and move around comfortably. This can be done for floor-length dresses as well as shorter styles. Other typical adjustments include taking in or letting out the dress at the sides, amending the straps, and adding a bustle. More complex changes, such as altering the neckline or sleeves, usually cost more and take longer. It is recommended that brides have two to three fittings to ensure their dress is ready for the big day.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is altering a wedding dress necessary? | Yes, it is highly recommended to alter a wedding dress to ensure a perfect fit. |
| Number of fittings | Typically 2-3 fittings are required, depending on the style, size, and desired changes. |
| Common alterations | Hemming, taking in/letting out, adjusting straps, changing neckline, adding lace/beadings, or bustle. |
| Cost | Varies based on complexity; simple alterations are easier and cheaper, while intricate changes like adding lace or beadings cost more. |
| Timing | Start the alteration process early to allow sufficient time for fittings and adjustments. |
| Choosing a seamstress/tailor | Bridal boutiques often have in-house seamstresses or can recommend trusted tailors. Consultations are usually free. |
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What You'll Learn
Hemming the length
When altering the length of a wedding dress, it is important to ensure that the gown doesn't drag on the floor while walking down the aisle or posing for photos. A good hemline to aim for is one that gently grazes the floor, allowing the wearer to walk, dance, and mingle with guests comfortably. Once the seamstress has pinned the hemline, it is a good idea to walk around in your shoes to make sure the length is comfortable and won't cause tripping.
Hem alterations can be done for any length of the dress, whether it is a floor-length gown, a midi dress, or a mini dress, to ensure the length is perfect for the big day. This alteration can be done by a professional seamstress or tailor, who can also advise on other style decisions to perfect your bridal look.
In addition to hemming, there are several other types of dress alterations that can be made. These can include adjusting the sides of the dress for a better fit, shortening straps, changing the neckline, adding or removing sleeves, adding lace trimmings or hand beadings, or adding a bustle. Some of these more intricate alterations may take more time and cost more.
It is recommended to have two to three fittings to ensure the wedding dress is perfectly altered. During the first fitting, the seamstress will start pinning and tucking the fabric to sculpt it to the bride's body. By the second fitting, the bride should have a better idea of how the gown will fit, and any last-minute modifications can be made during the third fitting.
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Altering the sides
Alterations are a common part of the wedding dress journey. It is rare that a dress will fit flawlessly straight off the rack, and tailoring is the secret to achieving a perfect fit.
The process of altering a wedding dress to make it longer by its sides involves a few steps. Firstly, it is important to consult a professional seamstress or tailor who specialises in wedding dresses. They will be able to assess the dress and determine the best course of action. This may involve letting out the seams on the sides of the dress, which means using the fabric from inside the seams to make the dress bigger. Most dresses have a seam under each arm that can be let out by around 1-2 cm. This method can make the dress up to a size bigger without any structural changes.
If there is not enough fabric to let out, discreet side panels can be added to the dress to increase its size. The difficulty in this method lies in finding fabric that perfectly matches the dress. Fabric from the dress's hem can be used if it is also being shortened, otherwise, new fabric must be sourced.
Another option to make the dress bigger is to restyle the back. This works well if the dress is too tight around the bust and waist but fits well around the hips. Lowering the back or creating a keyhole back can provide more room and a more comfortable fit.
It is important to note that the number of fittings and alterations will depend on the specific changes required. Brides can typically expect two to three fittings, with the gown starting to take shape during the first fitting and a better idea of the fit being achieved by the second. A third fitting, if required, allows the seamstress to make any last-minute modifications to ensure the dress is perfect.
The cost of alterations can vary, and it is always a good idea to discuss the options with a professional before proceeding.
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Changing the neckline
Altering a wedding dress is a common practice to ensure that the bride feels her most beautiful on her wedding day. While some dresses can be worn as-is, most brides opt for some form of alteration to achieve a perfect fit. Neckline alterations are a common request and can make a big impact on the overall look of the dress.
When altering a neckline, you can choose to open it up or close it off, depending on your preference and the style of the dress. If you're looking to show more skin, you can opt for a lower, more open neckline, such as a sweetheart or V-neck. On the other hand, if you want more coverage, you can raise the neckline or add fabric to create a higher, more modest look.
The cost of altering the neckline can vary depending on the style you choose. A simple neckline alteration can start at around $50, but the price can increase if you're adding intricate details like lace or beading. It's always helpful to bring inspiration pictures when consulting with your seamstress so they can better understand your vision and provide an accurate quote.
It's important to note that not all wedding dresses are created equal, and some may be more challenging to alter than others. If you're considering a neckline alteration, it's best to consult with a professional seamstress who can assess the dress and advise you on the best course of action. They will work with you to understand your style preferences and make suggestions to enhance the overall look of the dress.
With the right alterations, you can transform your wedding dress into a gown that perfectly complements your body and reflects your unique style. Neckline alterations can be a great way to achieve the look you desire and ensure you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.
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Adding a bustle
There are several different styles of bustles to choose from, including the American bustle, also known as an over-bustle, which is a simple style for the seamstress to create and easy to attach on the wedding day. This style is created when the outside of the train is lifted and secured over the back of the gown to the waistline, creating a cascading feel as the fabric folds flow over the rest of the skirt. Brides can choose to have one statement pickup or multiple pickup points for extra flair.
Another option is the traditional bustle, which is very similar to the American bustle, with the fabric folding over instead of under. The difference is in the pickup placements, with loops or hooks added along the waistline to fasten the train across multiple points, creating elegant pleats at the waist.
The ballroom bustle is a flattering option for most dress silhouettes as it completely hides the train without changing the look of the dress. This style has several points added under the dress for the train to attach to, resulting in the look of an untouched, floor-length gown.
The royal or Victorian bustle is another option that adds drama to the silhouette with folds that create more dimension. This style can be simple or elaborate, with either a single pickup point requiring one hook and eyelet, or multiple pickup points added down and across the back for more detail.
The French bustle is a stunning option that is not overly complicated, and the bow bustle is perfect for gowns with a statement bow or sash at the back.
The cost of adding a bustle can vary, with some people reporting costs of $800 or more, while others state that $80 per bustle is the industry standard in their area. It is important to note that adding a bustle may not always be necessary, especially if the bride is comfortable moving in their dress without it and is not concerned about guests stepping on the train.
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Making it bigger
Wedding dresses can be altered to make them bigger, but it is a more challenging process than making them smaller. It is important to consult a professional seamstress or tailor to discuss the options. They will be able to advise on the best course of action, which may include:
Letting out the dress
This involves making the dress bigger by using the fabric from inside the seams. Most dresses have a seam under each arm that can be let out by around 1-2 cm. This is a simple option if only a little extra room is needed, but it may not be possible if the fabric is delicate, as the original stitch marks may show.
Adding discreet panels
If there is not enough fabric inside the seams to let out the dress, discreet panels can be added to make the dress bigger. This option may be more costly and time-consuming, but it can be done with the right expertise.
Changing the style
Another option is to alter the style of the dress to make it more comfortable and flattering. This could include changing the neckline, adding a low back, or adjusting the sleeves. These changes can give the bride more room to move and breathe, making the dress feel bigger without necessarily altering the size.
Recutting the dress
In some cases, it may be necessary to recut the dress if significant alterations are required. This is a more drastic option and may be more costly, but it can be an effective way to make the dress bigger and ensure a perfect fit.
It is important to note that not all dresses can be altered to make them bigger, especially if they are already fitted or have had fabric removed. It is always best to consult a professional seamstress or tailor to assess the specific dress and determine the best alterations for the desired look and fit.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can make your wedding dress longer by adding discreet panels to the seams. This is a good option if there isn't enough fabric to let out the dress.
The cost of making a wedding dress longer can vary depending on the complexity of the alterations and the materials used. Simple adjustments can range from €38 to €300, while more intricate changes can cost upwards of $300.
The time required to lengthen a wedding dress depends on the type and extent of the alterations. Simple alterations can sometimes be done within a few fittings, while more intricate changes may take more time.
It is recommended to consult a professional seamstress or tailor who specializes in wedding dresses. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and ensure that your dress fits you perfectly.
