Deborah Chan
Wedding dress fittings are an important part of the wedding planning process, as they ensure that the bride's gown fits perfectly and complements her body shape. It is recommended that brides buy their dress 10 months before the wedding and schedule a fitting eight to 12 weeks before the big day. This allows time for any necessary alterations to be made, such as hemming the length of the dress or taking in the bodice and seat seams. If a bride's measurements change significantly, it may be necessary to replace the zipper with a corset back or add extra fabric to the gown. To avoid stress and ensure a perfect fit, it's important to work closely with a seamstress or alterations specialist during this process and communicate any preferences or concerns.
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What You'll Learn
Seek a seamstress to make alterations
Wedding dress alterations are just as important as finding your dream wedding dress. It is essential to seek a trusted seamstress or alterations specialist with experience working with wedding gowns, particularly the type of dress you are wearing.
Before entrusting your wedding dress to an alterations specialist, it is crucial to do your research. Read reviews, ask for recommendations from bridal salons, and inquire about their expertise in dealing with the specific fabrics, styles, or embellishments of your dress. Choosing an experienced professional will give you peace of mind and ensure your dress is in capable hands.
The number one alteration most brides need is hemming the length of their wedding dress. This ensures the gown doesn't drag on the floor while walking down the aisle and posing for photos. A good seamstress will listen to your preferences and work with you to achieve your desired hem length.
Other common alterations include taking in the bodice and seat seams to fit perfectly, creating a bustle to prevent the train from getting stepped on or torn, and customizing the gown with off-the-shoulder straps, sleeves, train length, lace appliqués, beading, bustles, and buttons.
The cost of alterations can vary depending on the complexity of the changes and the seamstress's schedule. Expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $1,000 on wedding dress alterations, with some salons charging per service and others a flat fee.
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Opt for a lace-up back
Opting for a lace-up back wedding dress is a great option if you're looking for flexibility with your fit. This style is very accommodating to your changing body shape and can be easily adjusted to fit you perfectly on your big day.
A lace-up back dress can be tightened or loosened to match your measurements, and this can even be done after your final fitting. This means that if your weight changes in the lead-up to your wedding, your dress can still fit you beautifully. It's a great choice if you're trying to lose weight, as it can be adjusted to complement your body and enhance your best features.
The lace-up back is also a stylish option, adding a unique and elegant touch to your gown. It can be a beautiful feature of your dress, while also providing the functionality of a custom fit. This style is particularly well-suited to A-line dresses, providing a "cheat code" for a well-fitted dress, as described by Tina Zimmerman, the director of alterations at Kleinfeld Bridal.
If you opt for a lace-up back dress, it's important to keep in mind that not all gowns can be changed to include this feature. However, it is worth asking your fitter about this design alteration. There will likely be a charge for this change, but it may be worth it for the peace of mind and flexibility it provides.
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Choose a stretch fabric
Choosing a stretch fabric for your wedding dress is a great option if you're looking for flexibility and ease of movement. Stretch fabric is popular for its versatility and ability to provide a snug yet comfortable fit.
There are several types of stretch fabric to choose from, each offering unique advantages. Stretch lace fabric, for instance, is known for its intricate patterns and exceptional stretchability, making it a timeless and flattering choice. If you're looking for a more formal option, ponte knit fabric provides a slight sheen and a nice drape and flow to your dress. Additionally, fabrics containing lycra or spandex are excellent for maintaining their shape even after stretching.
When selecting a stretch fabric, it's important to consider the overall look and feel you desire. High-quality materials and subtle design details can enhance the luxurious appearance of your dress. Embellishments like beading, sequins, or lace appliqués can elevate the design and create a sense of luxury.
Keep in mind that the fabric you choose should complement your body shape and enhance your best features. It's also crucial to plan ahead and allow ample time for fittings and alterations to ensure your dress fits like a dream on your special day.
With the right stretch fabric and expert tailoring, you'll step into your wedding dress with confidence, knowing it was crafted to perfection just for you.
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Exercise and diet
When it comes to diet, it is important to focus on whole foods and eliminate processed foods and refined sugars. This includes foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and sugar-free sweets. It is also important to watch your portion sizes and ensure you are not consuming too many calories. Alcohol should be limited, and it is recommended to have one cheat day a week.
In terms of exercise, it is beneficial to work out 5-6 days a week, including strength training and cardio. You can start with simple exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups, and then progress to more advanced exercises like weighted squats, plyometric lunges, and pull-ups. It is also important to incorporate flexibility training like yoga or Pilates, which can also help with stress relief.
If you have a shorter time frame before your wedding, you may need to intensify your workouts and diet. Focus on high-intensity exercises with limited rest and make sure to perform them with correct form and technique. In terms of diet, eat clean and limit alcohol intake. It is still important to enjoy yourself and treat yourself, but be mindful of your goals.
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Buy a new dress
If you're unable to fit into your wedding dress, you may want to consider buying a new one. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Buying a New Wedding Dress
Start by considering your budget and timeline. Wedding dresses can be expensive, so clarify whether you can afford a new dress, especially if it's a designer gown. Buying a pre-owned, used, or sample wedding dress can help you save money. Additionally, buying a new dress means you'll need to account for the dressmaking process, which can take between four to six months, or even longer for complex designs. So, ensure you have enough time before your wedding to accommodate production and shipping.
Finding the Right Dress
When shopping for a new wedding dress, keep in mind that the size of your bridal outfit will likely be two to four sizes larger than your usual clothing size. These garments are made with the assumption that alterations will be made. Get measured by a bridal stylist or a seamstress to determine your wedding dress size. Recall the most flattering components of your current wardrobe and use those characteristics to guide your dress shopping experience. If you're unsure about a dress, take your time and don't feel pressured to make a hasty decision.
Alterations and Fittings
Once you've found a new wedding dress, you'll likely need to have it altered to ensure a perfect fit. Wedding dresses rarely fit straight off the rack, and alterations are almost always necessary. Schedule your fittings accordingly, with the first one taking place around eight to twelve weeks before the wedding, and the final fitting no later than two weeks before the big day. During the fittings, work closely with your seamstress to review and make the necessary alterations, ensuring that the dress complements your body shape and enhances your best features.
Accessories and Undergarments
While waiting for your new dress to arrive, focus on other tasks, such as shopping for wedding accessories, including shoes, jewellery, and a clutch. Additionally, don't forget to purchase your wedding undergarments, shapewear, and intimate essentials, as these can make a significant difference in how your dress looks and feels.
Selling Your Previous Dress
If you decide to part ways with your original wedding dress, consider selling it online to recoup some of your expenses. Platforms like Stillwhite offer a safe and easy way to connect with buyers and sell your dress directly to another bride-to-be.
Remember, while buying a new wedding dress can be a solution, it's essential to plan and budget accordingly to ensure a stress-free experience.
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Frequently asked questions
First of all, don't panic. Wedding dresses rarely fit perfectly off-the-rack, and it's common for brides to need alterations. You can ask your fitter to change the zipper to a corset back, or add extra fabric to a dress that's become too small.
Schedule a fitting 8-12 weeks before your wedding, and a final fitting no later than two weeks before. Bring your day-of essentials, and wear similar undergarments to the ones you plan to wear on the day. It's also a good idea to bring a relative, bridesmaid, or friend to your fittings.
If you gain weight, your seamstress may be able to open the seams and add extra fabric. If you lose weight, they will take the dress in at the seams.
It's not recommended to try to lose weight quickly, but drinking lots of water and reducing your sodium intake can help with water retention.
