George Boyle
Wedding dress alterations are a common procedure to ensure that a bride's wedding dress fits her perfectly and makes her feel her most beautiful on her special day. While it is relatively straightforward to take in a dress, making a wedding dress bigger can be more challenging and costly. However, there are several options to consider when faced with a wedding dress that is too big. From adding a grosgrain ribbon at the waist for support and emergency fixes to discreetly adding panels to the sides of the dress, there are ways to ensure your wedding dress is a source of joy rather than stress.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to start alterations | 6-8 weeks before the wedding |
| Number of fittings | 3 or more |
| What to bring to the fitting | The shoes you plan to wear on the day |
| Who to bring to the fitting | A supportive friend or family member |
| How to make a dress bigger | "Letting out" a dress by using fabric from inside the seams |
| Removing the zip and stitching fabric loops down each side of the opening, then tied with a ribbon | |
| Adding discreet panels | |
| Restyling the back of the dress | |
| Adding a grosgrain ribbon at the waist | |
| Extending the corset | |
| Constructing a waist belt |
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What You'll Learn
- Hemline adjustments: ensure the dress gently grazes the floor, allowing you to walk and dance freely
- Letting out the dress: use fabric from inside the seams to make the dress bigger
- Discreet panels: add panels to the sides of the dress when there isn't enough fabric to let out
- Modesty panel: replace the zip with fabric loops and a ribbon, allowing for adjustability
- Grosgrain ribbon: use a ribbon at the waist for support and emergency fixes on the big day
Hemline adjustments: ensure the dress gently grazes the floor, allowing you to walk and dance freely
Hemlines are one of the most common adjustments made to wedding dresses, as manufacturers tend to make them extra long to accommodate taller customers. When altering a wedding dress that is too big, it is important to ensure that the hemline is adjusted to the wearer's height, allowing the dress to gently graze the floor. This will enable the wearer to walk and dance freely on their wedding day.
To achieve the perfect hemline, it is recommended to bring the shoes that will be worn on the day to the fitting. This will allow the seamstress to accurately determine the required length of the dress. It is also important to consider the style of the shoe, as a pair of sky-high stilettos will require a different hemline compared to a pair of bridal sneakers or flats.
If you are feeling adventurous and want to attempt to adjust the hemline yourself, there are a few methods you can try. One option is to use duct tape or tailoring tape to adjust the hem length. However, this method may not work if the difference in length is too great, as it could affect the style or fitting of the dress. Another option is to use hemming glue, which involves measuring your height and subtracting it from the overall size of the dress. The extra inches are then folded in and secured with the glue.
For a more permanent solution, you can create a new hemline by cutting off the extra inches of the old one. This method involves carefully measuring, marking, and cutting the fabric to the desired length. It is important to try on the dress and identify where it needs to be adjusted before making any cuts. You can then sew the new hemline using a zigzag stitch to prevent fraying. Finally, press the seams flat with an iron to give the dress a polished finish and ensure that the fabric lays correctly.
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Letting out the dress: use fabric from inside the seams to make the dress bigger
Altering a wedding dress can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and guidance, it can be a smooth process. In this guide, we will focus on letting out a wedding dress that is too big by utilising the fabric from inside the seams. This method can give you a few more inches of room, but it is important to assess the construction and fabric of the dress before beginning.
First, turn the dress inside out and examine the side seams. Determine if there is extra fabric at the seams that can be used to make the dress bigger. Some dresses may have enclosed seams with two lines of stitching, and removing the first line of stitching can provide a little extra fabric. If there is no extra fabric at the seams, this method may not be suitable, and adding extra fabric may be necessary.
If there is extra fabric available, try on the dress inside out and use a marking pen to indicate the area that needs to be let out, from where it starts to get tight to where it fits comfortably. Carefully remove the dress and use a seam ripper to take out the stitches at the side seams, being cautious not to rip the fabric. For enclosed seams, you may not need to sew anything up, but if there was extra folded fabric, you will need to sew it back up.
When letting out the dress, consider the type of fabric and the dye used. If the fabric frays easily, avoid using tiny seam allowances. If the fabric has been dyed with indigo or similar dyes that fade over time, letting out the seams may reveal darker areas, making the alteration noticeable. In such cases, unpicking a small part of the seam can help assess the visibility of the alteration.
Finally, sew each seam with smaller seam allowances to create more fabric at each stitching line. One preferred method is to stitch the new line first and then unpick the old stitches, allowing the original stitches to hold everything in place. However, sometimes it is better to rip the old seam and then re-stitch. If there is lining attached to the skirt, it may need to be ripped to access the stitching. Once completed, try on your altered dress, and if the side seams are too bulky, trim the excess fabric from the inside.
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Discreet panels: add panels to the sides of the dress when there isn't enough fabric to let out
Altering a wedding dress that is too big can be a challenging process, but with careful planning and execution, it can be done. One approach to making a wedding dress bigger is to add discreet panels to the sides of the dress. This method is especially useful when there isn't enough fabric to let out. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you add discreet panels to the sides of your wedding dress:
Prepare the Necessary Materials and Tools:
Before starting the alteration process, gather all the required materials and tools. You will need the wedding dress itself, along with matching or complementary fabric. Consider the weight, pattern, texture, and colour of the fabric to ensure it blends seamlessly with the original dress. Other essential tools include sharp scissors, a sewing machine or needle and thread, pins, a seam ripper, and a measuring tape.
Measure and Cut the Fabric Panels:
Careful measurements are crucial for a precise fit. Measure the area where you plan to insert the fabric panels, typically along the existing seams of the dress. Use the measurements to cut the fabric panels, adding seam allowances on both edges to ensure a flawless integration.
Pin the Fabric Panels:
Once you have cut the fabric panels to the appropriate size, it's time to pin them in place. Carefully pin the additional fabric along the existing seams of the dress, following its original lines. This step will help you visualize the alteration and ensure a professional-looking result.
Sew the Fabric Panels:
Using your sewing machine or needle and thread, carefully sew the fabric panels in place. Create tight seams when attaching the panels to ensure a durable and seamless finish. Choose a thread colour that closely matches the fabric to maintain a cohesive and discreet look.
Final Fitting and Adjustments:
After sewing the fabric panels, try on the dress to assess the fit. Ensure that the added fabric provides enough extra space and comfort. If needed, make any final adjustments by letting out or taking in the seams accordingly.
Remember, altering a wedding dress can be complex, and it's essential to work slowly and carefully throughout the process. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with making these alterations yourself, consider seeking the assistance of a professional seamstress or tailor specializing in wedding dresses.
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Modesty panel: replace the zip with fabric loops and a ribbon, allowing for adjustability
Altering a wedding dress that is too big can be a challenging task. One option to achieve a perfect fit is to replace the zipper with fabric loops and a ribbon, creating a modesty panel for adjustability. This alteration allows for a custom fit and adds a unique design element to the dress. Here is a step-by-step guide to creating a modesty panel:
Prepare the Materials:
You will need fabric for the loops and modesty panel, ribbon for lacing, a sewing machine or needle and thread for hand sewing, scissors, and any other general sewing tools. The fabric and ribbon should complement the colour and style of your wedding dress. It is also important to ensure you have enough fabric and ribbon to cover the zipper area and create the desired number of loops.
Create the Loops:
Cut the fabric into long strips to make the loops. Fold the strips in half lengthwise and stitch along the raw edges, leaving one end open. Turn the tubes right side out and stitch the open end closed. These loops will be used to thread the ribbon through, creating the lacing effect. Decide on the desired spacing between the loops and carefully pin or baste them to the dress. You can place the loops between the lining and the dress fabric for a cleaner finish.
Craft the Modesty Panel:
The modesty panel will provide coverage and support for the lacing. Cut the fabric into the desired shape, typically a long triangle, ensuring it is wide enough to cover the lacing area. Pin and stitch the modesty panel in place, securing it to the loops and the dress fabric. You can add snaps, hooks, or velcro to the modesty panel for additional security, but the pressure of the lacing usually holds it in place.
Thread the Ribbon:
Finally, thread the ribbon through the loops to create the lacing effect. You can start from the bottom or top, depending on where you prefer the bow to be. Thread the ribbon back and forth through the loops, similar to lacing a shoelace. Adjust the ribbon to ensure a comfortable fit, and tie a beautiful bow to complete the look.
By following these steps, you can transform a zippered wedding dress that is too big into a stunning, adjustable corset-back style. This alteration allows for a custom fit and provides the option to gain a few inches in the back of the dress. Remember to take your time, carefully measure and pin the fabric, and seek assistance from a skilled seamstress if needed.
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Grosgrain ribbon: use a ribbon at the waist for support and emergency fixes on the big day
If your wedding dress is too big, don't panic! There are several ways to alter it and ensure it fits you perfectly. One versatile solution is to use a grosgrain ribbon at the waist. Not only does this provide support, but it can also be used for quick fixes on your wedding day.
Grosgrain ribbon is an excellent option for a waist stay, a little belt hidden inside the dress that anchors the waist in place. This allows the body to move without the whole dress following, so you can sit, stand, dance, and jump without the dress tugging or needing to be hoisted up. The ribbon adds very little bulk and helps to support the weight of the dress. It can also be used to extend the corset on a strapless dress, providing extra support and lifting the dress.
When choosing a grosgrain ribbon, opt for a one-inch width, as this is the safest option. You can find this type of ribbon in craft stores, and it is typically made from polyester with a bound edge that provides strength and durability. Another option is Petersham ribbon, sometimes called "true grosgrain," which is made of rayon and/or cotton and features a scalloped edge.
To attach the grosgrain ribbon, you will need a needle and thread. Simply stitch the ribbon to the inside of your dress at the waist. For a more secure hold, you can use a reinforced cross-stitch, attaching the ribbon to the seam allowance or dart so that none of the stitches will show from the outside. This technique will ensure that your dress stays in place and provides a comfortable fit for your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
First, don't panic. It's normal for wedding dresses to need alterations, and it's better to have a dress that's too big than one that's too small. Find an experienced seamstress to discuss your options, and bring a supportive friend or family member to your fitting for a second opinion and to take photos.
One option is to let out the dress, which means using the extra fabric from inside the seams. This works for dresses with a seam down each side under the arm, and each seam can typically be let out by 1-2cm. If there isn't enough fabric to let out the dress, discreet panels can be added to the sides, although it can be difficult to find fabric that perfectly matches the dress.
General alterations typically cost $300 or more, and letting out a dress can cost upwards of $500.
It typically takes about three fittings before a bride's ensemble is ready to be worn, but this can vary depending on the style and size of the original dress. Schedule your first fitting about six to eight weeks before the wedding, and consider having a final fitting one week before the big day to accommodate any last-minute changes.
