Bridesmaid Dresses: How Long Before The Wedding?

Bridesmaids should order their dresses about six months before the wedding. Dresses can take up to three months to arrive, and you should allow extra time for any alterations. The average turnaround time for alterations is about a month, so it's recommended to have them done four to six weeks before the wedding. Simple alterations like a hem can be ready in a month, whereas more complex tailoring will take closer to six weeks. To avoid last-minute stress, book your alteration appointments well in advance.

Bridesmaid dress alterations: 1-3 weeks

Bridesmaid dress alterations can take anywhere from one to three weeks on average. However, it's important to remember that the timeframe may vary depending on the complexity and number of alterations required. Multiple fittings might be necessary, especially for significant adjustments, so it's not uncommon to schedule more than one appointment to ensure a perfect fit.

To avoid last-minute stress, it is recommended to book your alteration appointments well in advance. For weddings during the off-season (November to March), aim to have your first appointment about a month before the wedding. In the busy season (April to October), allow at least two months before the big day. Once you've ordered your dresses and have an estimated ship date, get in touch with a seamstress to secure your spot.

The cost of bridesmaid dress alterations can vary depending on factors such as the number of alterations, the original construction of the dress, and the number of fabric layers. On average, bridesmaids can expect to spend between $45 and $150 on alterations.

• Bring your bridesmaid dress, shoes, undergarments, and accessories to your fitting appointment.
• If you have specific alteration requests or inspiration photos, bring them along to provide a clear vision to the seamstress.
• Schedule your fitting at least one month before the wedding, and earlier if you anticipate extensive adjustments.
• Try on your dress one week before the wedding to ensure it still fits perfectly.
• Get your dress professionally steamed or dry-cleaned before the wedding to ensure it looks its best.

Order in advance: 6 months

Ordering bridesmaids' dresses in advance is crucial to ensure a stress-free lead-up to the wedding day. Here are some reasons why ordering six months in advance is a good idea:

Shipping Times

Firstly, consider the shipping times for your chosen bridesmaids' dresses. Off-the-rack dresses will typically arrive much quicker than custom-made or made-to-order dresses. If you're ordering online, it's a good idea to factor in potential shipping delays to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Customisation and Alterations

Secondly, custom or made-to-order bridesmaids' dresses often have longer lead times. Allowing a six-month buffer gives you extra time for any unexpected changes or adjustments. This is especially important if you're ordering from a brand with longer production and delivery times.

Allow Time for Alterations

Ordering six months in advance gives your bridesmaids ample time to schedule fittings and alterations. These adjustments are often necessary to ensure the dresses fit perfectly. It's recommended to start with alterations about four to six weeks before the wedding, so ordering early ensures a smooth process.

Consistency in Colour and Style

Ordering all the bridesmaids' dresses together at the same time ensures colour consistency across the board. Even the same dress style can vary slightly in colour depending on the dye lot. Ordering together minimises the risk of slight colour variations, keeping the bridal party's look cohesive.

Peace of Mind

Lastly, ordering six months in advance gives you and your bridesmaids peace of mind. It allows time to address any potential issues, such as sizing discrepancies or the need for complex alterations. This buffer helps to avoid last-minute stress and ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable lead-up to the wedding.

Hemming costs: $45-$90

Hemming costs for bridesmaids' dresses typically range from $45 to $90. However, several factors can influence the final price. For example, the number of layers in the dress will impact the cost, with multiple layers increasing the price. The width of the dress is also a factor, as is the type of hem required. A rolled hem or a horsehair hem will affect the overall cost of alterations. If the dress needs to be hemmed from the waist, this will also add to the cost.

The cost of alterations can vary depending on the complexity of the work and the expertise of the tailor. It is worth noting that dresses with intricate details, such as beading or sequins, will take more time and skill to alter, and therefore may be more expensive. The location of the alterations can also impact the price, with alterations in some cities or areas costing more due to a higher cost of living.

It is generally recommended to get a professional to alter your dress rather than attempting it yourself or asking a friend. A professional tailor has the expertise and equipment to ensure your dress fits perfectly and looks stunning.

To avoid last-minute stress, it is advisable to book your alteration appointments well in advance. For weddings during the off-season, it is recommended to have your first appointment about a month before the wedding. In the busy season, allow at least two months before the big day. This will give you enough time to make any necessary adjustments and ensure your dress fits perfectly.

Dress length: 1 inch above floor to slight puddle effect

Bridesmaid dresses are available in three main lengths: long, short, and midi/tea-length. Long dresses are the most popular and versatile option, and can be dressed up or down to suit the formality of the event. They can be altered to suit the height of each bridesmaid, and are a good option if your bridal party will be wearing flats, as they can hide the shoes.

However, long dresses may not be suitable for outdoor weddings, as they can drag on the floor and become damaged or dirty. In this case, a midi/tea-length dress is a good option, as it provides a sense of formality without the risk of damage. Short dresses are also an option, but are more suited to casual, relaxed, or summer weddings.

When deciding on the length of your bridesmaids' dresses, it's important to consider the location, the shoes your bridal party will be wearing, the formality of the event, and the season. If you're opting for long dresses, you'll also need to consider the height of each bridesmaid to ensure the dress doesn't drag on the floor.

For a dress length that is 1 inch above the floor, alterations will likely be needed to ensure the dress doesn't drag on the floor. This will depend on the height of the wearer and the height of their shoes. The timeframe for bridesmaid dress alterations can vary, but it typically takes around 1 to 3 weeks. It's recommended to book your alteration appointments at least 1-2 months in advance of the wedding, depending on the season.

If you're opting for a slight puddle effect, the dress will touch the floor and create a small puddle of fabric around the wearer's feet. This length is best suited for indoor weddings, as it can be difficult to walk in outdoors, especially on grass or sand. It's also important to consider the wearer's comfort and the formality of the event when choosing this length.

Overall, the length of your bridesmaids' dresses is an important decision that will impact the comfort and style of your bridal party. Be sure to consider all the factors involved to make the best choice for your big day.

Fabric: chiffon for long dresses

Chiffon is a popular fabric choice for bridesmaid dresses, and it's easy to see why. Chiffon is a lightweight, luxurious, and elegant fabric that complements both traditional and contemporary styles. It is also versatile, breathable, and comfortable, making it perfect for outdoor weddings and warm weather.

When it comes to long chiffon bridesmaid dresses, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, chiffon is a delicate fabric that can snag easily. To minimise this risk, it is recommended to avoid jewellery on the hands or arms, skip the clutch, or choose one with a smooth exterior, and keep nails softly rounded.

Additionally, chiffon is a sheer fabric, so it cannot be the only layer of a dress. Chiffon bridesmaid dresses typically include at least one other type of fabric underneath for coverage. This is especially important to consider when choosing a long dress, as more fabric will be needed.

The timeframe for alterations to long chiffon bridesmaid dresses is generally around 1 to 3 weeks. However, multiple fittings may be necessary, especially for significant alterations. It is recommended to book appointments well in advance, allowing at least 2 months before the wedding during the busy season (Apr-Oct) and 1 month before the wedding during the off-season (Nov-Mar).

When it comes to the cost of alterations, hemming a long chiffon bridesmaid dress typically ranges from $45 to $90. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the number of dress layers, the width of the dress, and the type of hem.

Overall, long chiffon bridesmaid dresses are a beautiful choice that can add a touch of elegance to any wedding. With proper care and alterations, your bridesmaids will look and feel their best on the big day.

Frequently asked questions