Deborah Chan
The cost of adding lining to a wedding dress skirt can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the design, the type of fabric used, and the tailor or seamstress performing the alterations. Bridal alterations are generally expensive, and adding a lining may require taking apart multiple components of the dress, such as the armholes, shoulder straps, neckline, and skirt attachments. The choice of lining fabric is crucial, as it provides structure, comfort, and a base for the outer layers of the gown. Thin, lightweight, and stretchy materials like satin, crepe, or Viole are commonly used for lining. The process of sewing the lining into the dress involves tracing, cutting, and stitching the lining pieces before attaching them to the inside of the dress along all edges, including the waist, neckline, and arms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose of lining a wedding dress | To protect your skin from uncomfortable material, make the dress less see-through, improve the fit, and prevent the fabric from clinging or bunching |
| Lining fabric | Thin, lightweight, and stretchy material, such as satin, crepe, or Viole |
| Lining options for the skirt | Full bodice lining for a sheer fabric, sleeveless bodice to show off the fabric or add support, non-identical skirt lining with back, hip, and centre front notches |
| Sewing technique | Sewing the torso and skirt together, combining them with the sleeves, leaving edges unfinished at the neck, shoulders, armhole, and zipper opening |
| Cost | Bridal alterations are expensive, and adding lining may cost upwards of a few hundred euros |
| Alternative options | Wearing a slip or another skirt underneath, or wearing leggings |
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What You'll Learn
Cost of adding lining to a wedding dress
The cost of adding lining to a wedding dress will depend on a number of factors, including the type of fabric used, the complexity of the design, and the location of the dress alterations service.
Lining a wedding dress can provide additional comfort, style, and structure to the gown. The lining fabric acts as a barrier between the bride's skin and the outer layer of the dress, ensuring that the gown does not cling or bunch up in unwanted places. It can also protect the skin from uncomfortable material and make the dress less see-through.
Some wedding dresses already come with a thin lining, but brides may choose to add or change the lining to suit their preferences. This may be done to alter the colour, improve the fit, or add a layer of warmth to the dress. For example, adding a blush-coloured tulle or organza layer between the lining and outer layers can add a hint of colour or warmth while still maintaining the overall look of the dress.
The process of adding lining to a wedding dress typically involves removing certain parts of the dress, such as the armholes, shoulder straps, neckline, and skirt, and then sewing the new lining onto the inside of the dress along all edges. This can be a complex process, especially if the dress has a zipper, and it may change the dress size. As such, it is generally recommended to seek the services of a professional seamstress or tailor for this type of alteration.
The cost of adding lining to a wedding dress can vary depending on the specific circumstances. Bridal alterations are generally considered expensive, and adding lining can be particularly labour-intensive. The price will depend on the specific design of the dress, the type of fabric used for the lining, and the rates charged by the seamstress or tailor. It is always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different dress alterations services in your area to get a sense of the average cost for this type of service.
In some cases, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a slip or second skirt to wear under the dress, rather than adding permanent lining. This can be a good option if you are concerned about the cost or potential impact on the dress size, as it allows for more flexibility and the slip or skirt can be reused with other outfits in the future.
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Choosing the right fabric for the lining
The choice of fabric for your wedding dress lining is important and can dramatically impact the overall look of your gown. The fabric you choose will depend on the design of your dress, the season, and your personal preference.
If you are concerned about perspiration, perhaps due to a lack of air conditioning at your venue, a silk Habotai lining is a good option. This natural fibre is breathable and absorbent, making it an excellent choice for weddings in hot climates or during the summer months.
For a luxurious option that adds a hint of sheen, satin is a great choice and is also excellent for maintaining structure in form-fitting dresses. Charmeuse is another lightweight, glossy fabric that drapes beautifully and is ideal for slim-fitting dresses.
If you are looking for a crisp fabric that creates volume, taffeta is a good choice and is often used for ballgowns and A-line styles. Tulle is another fabric that is often used for lining and is characterised by a sheer, gauzy open weave. It has an airy and romantic vibe and is very delicate.
Finally, if you are looking for a natural fabric that will keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, wool is a good option. This fabric has become increasingly popular for wedding dresses in recent years and is ideal for minimal and pared-back designs.
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Tracing and cutting the lining
To begin tracing and cutting the lining for your wedding dress skirt, you'll first need to prepare the dress. Hang the dress for a few days with your wedding shoes on and any foundation garments you plan to wear with the dress. Have someone help you mark the length of the fashion fabric hem, as this will be the reference point for cutting the interlining and lining.
If you're working without a pattern, you can trace the lining from the actual skirt of the dress. Adjust the edges of the lining by taking away 1/8 inch (0.32 cm). Add a 1/8 inch (0.32 cm) seam allowance to the neckline, shoulders, zipper opening, and armholes. If your dress is sleeveless, only add the seam allowance to the neckline, shoulders, and zipper opening.
Trace parallel lines to the skirt hem, in your chosen length. For the centre front seam finishing, you can draft it a bit shorter so that you can turn your hem and encase the lining. Alternatively, you can draft it identical to the self-front and do a turned hem on the lining to keep it loose. You could also draft it 2 inches smaller if you don't want the lining to show when walking.
After tracing the lining pieces onto the material, use sharp sewing shears or scissors to carefully cut out each piece. Check the lining against the original dress to make sure the hems match up without hanging beneath the hem.
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Stitching the lining to the dress
To begin stitching the lining to your wedding dress, you will first need to cut out the fabric for the lining. Cut 2 or 3 layers—an underlining, which will serve as a backing for the top layer of fabric, and then one or two layers of lining.
Next, place your lining and dress fabric side by side, aligning them by the sleeve. With the right sides together, stitch the lining to the hem of the sleeves. Ensure that your lining is at least 2 inches shorter than the fabric dress. After sewing the lining to the sleeves, flip the dress the right way around. This will help you see and understand more clearly where everything goes.
Now, stitch along the neckline, armholes, and shoulders. You can hand stitch the lining to the zipper if you do not have a zipper foot with a fell stitch. For the centre front seam finishing, you can draft it a bit shorter so that you can turn your hem and encase the lining or you can draft it identical to the self front and do a turned hem on the lining as well to keep it loose.
If your dress has separate bodice and skirt pieces, you should stitch the lining to the main fabric around the hemline. Align the lining and main fabric so that the waistlines match. Stitch directly over the existing seams, stopping 1 inch before the zipper opening on either side. Stitch along the zipper opening with a zipper foot. Change the foot on your sewing machine to a zipper foot, then sew the lining to the dress around the zipper. Start at the top left side and sew straight down. Then, start at the bottom right side and sew straight up. Do not get too close to the bumps of the zipper while stitching the lining in place, or you could cause it to warp.
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Lining as a barrier between the skin and the outer fabric
The lining of a wedding dress skirt is a fundamental layer of material that acts as a barrier between the skin and the outer fabric. It provides structure, comfort, and a base for the outer layers of the gown. This layer of nude or white fabric prevents the dress from being sheer and creates a smooth and seamless appearance.
The choice of fabric for the underlay lining is crucial and can dramatically impact the overall look and feel of the dress. For instance, satin adds a hint of sheen and structure to form-fitting dresses, while silk creates a fluid and elegant silhouette. Taffeta, a crisp fabric, is ideal for creating volume in ball gowns and A-line styles. Charmeuse, a lightweight and glossy fabric, drapes beautifully and is perfect for slim-fitting dresses. Georgette, on the other hand, offers a subtle texture and sheerness, adding a romantic touch to lace and sheer styles.
When adding a lining to a wedding dress skirt, it is important to consider the design and desired outcome. For a sheer fabric, a "full bodice" lining can be used to create a clean finish with no visible topstitching. Alternatively, a sleeveless bodice can be lined to showcase beautiful fabric or provide more support and coverage. When drafting a non-identical skirt lining, don't forget to add back, hip, and centre front notches, as well as a grain line.
The cost of adding a lining to a wedding dress can vary. Bridal alterations are generally expensive, and adding a lining may require taking apart multiple parts of the dress, such as the armholes, shoulder straps, neckline, and skirt attachment. In some cases, it may be more feasible to wear a slip or another skirt underneath, especially if you want to change the colour or fabric to suit different seasons.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of adding a lining to a wedding dress skirt will depend on the dress design, the fabric used, and the seamstress. Bridal alterations are generally expensive, and adding a lining may require taking apart multiple parts of the dress. It is best to consult a professional seamstress for an accurate quote.
Adding a lining to a wedding dress skirt can provide structure, comfort, and a smooth silhouette. It acts as a barrier between the outer fabric and the skin, preventing the gown from clinging or bunching up in unwanted places.
The lining fabric should be thin, lightweight, and stretchy, matching the stretch of the dress itself. Common fabrics used for lining include satin, crepe, silk, and poly satin. The choice of fabric will depend on the desired comfort, style, and overall look of the dress.
Yes, it is possible to add a lining to an existing wedding dress. However, it is a complex process that may require taking apart and altering multiple parts of the dress. It is recommended to consult a professional seamstress to ensure the alterations are done correctly and to maintain the integrity of the dress.
Yes, if you prefer not to add a lining to your wedding dress skirt, you can consider wearing a seamless slip underneath. This can provide a similar smoothing effect without altering the dress itself. Additionally, you can explore different fabric options for the outer layers of the dress that may not require a separate lining.
