Franklin Dean
Altering the back of a wedding dress is a common request, and it can be done in a variety of ways to achieve the desired look. Whether it's adding more coverage, opening it up for a revealing look, or changing the closure from a zipper to buttons, a skilled seamstress can help you achieve your dream dress. The cost of alterations depends on the complexity of the changes, with simpler alterations like cutting a new neckline costing less than more intricate work like adding lace or beading. It's important to consult with a professional seamstress to discuss the desired changes and plan accordingly. Additionally, buying your wedding dress early and scheduling fittings in advance will ensure you have enough time for alterations and tailoring.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Common alterations | Hemming, adding sleeves, changing the size of the dress, adding beading, removing lace details, adding a slit, making the dress strapless, revealing an open back, removing sleeves, adding lace, adding a train, changing the silhouette, changing the fabric |
| Alterations to the back | Opening it up, adding more cover, adding beading, adding appliqués, adding pearls, adding buttons, adding a corset |
| Alterations to the neckline | Opening or closing, lowering or raising |
| Other alterations | Adding straps, adding bows, removing beading, removing train, shortening the length |
| Tips | Buy the dress 10 months before the wedding, schedule a fitting 8-12 weeks before the wedding, bring shoes and undergarments to the fitting, expect 2-3 fittings |
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What You'll Learn
Add buttons or a corset
Altering the back of a wedding dress is a common request. Brides may want to change a zipper to a long line of buttons or opt for a corset back. These alterations are not difficult to make and can be done by a good bridal seamstress.
Adding buttons to a wedding dress can be a simple way to achieve a sophisticated and sexy look. These can be functional buttons that fasten the dress, or non-functioning buttons that line the zipper edge for decorative purposes.
A corset back can be a good option for brides who want to feel held in and shaped, or who want to be able to fluctuate a little in size without worrying about the fit of their dress. Corsets can be added inside the dress, either by using a similar mesh material or by attaching the corset throughout the inside around the waist.
It is important to note that while it is tempting to alter a dress to turn it into the "dress of your dreams," significant alterations can change the look, shape, and flow of the dress and detract from the designer's original vision. For example, a corset back may not suit every dress style, and it is important to consider whether it will interrupt the dress's details and overall look.
Before making any alterations, it is recommended to consult a professional seamstress, who can provide guidance on what is possible and help create a plan for the desired alterations.
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Open up the back
Opening up the back of a wedding dress is a popular request and can be done in several ways. Firstly, it is important to consider the style of the dress and whether you want to showcase your back. If you are looking to make a statement with an open back, you can opt for a deep V-back or a scoop back. The V-back features a deep V-neckline that dips down to the waist or lower, creating a flattering silhouette. A scoop back has a rounded neckline that also dips towards the waist, and can be paired with a thin veil to complement the scooped silhouette.
If you want to showcase your back while still having some coverage, you could consider a draped design. This involves adding draped material across the back of the dress, providing coverage while still revealing the back. Another option is to add a lace-up or corset back, which offers a vintage-inspired look and allows for a customizable fit. This style is perfect for those who want a touch of vintage charm while also showcasing their back.
For those who want a more modern look, you could transform the back of the dress by adding a high neck or a one-shoulder back. A high neck back is a trendy and modern style, while a one-shoulder back allows you to show off your back and shoulders, pairing well with statement earrings or a dramatic veil.
If you are looking to make alterations to your wedding dress, it is recommended to consult a seamstress and provide them with inspiration pictures. They will be able to advise on the best way to open up the back of your dress while ensuring it fits perfectly and flatters your figure.
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Add straps
Adding straps to a wedding dress is a great way to enhance the design and provide extra support. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Choosing the Right Straps
Before adding straps to your wedding dress, it's important to consider the different types of straps available and choose the ones that best suit your style and needs. The most common types of straps include:
- Straight back straps: These are attached to the front of the dress and go straight over the shoulders, attaching to the back.
- Cross-back straps: These straps start in the front on one side, cross in the back, and attach to the opposite side.
- Halter straps: Halter straps wrap around the back of the neck, leaving the shoulders and upper back uncovered. They can be tied behind the neck or attached at the front of the dress.
- Thick straps: These offer more support and can be embellished with lace, embroidery, or beadwork for a stylish touch.
- Detachable straps: This option provides versatility, allowing you to wear the dress with or without straps at different times.
Measuring and Attaching the Straps
Once you've decided on the type of straps you want, follow these steps to attach them:
- Measure the strap length: Use a measuring tape to determine the desired length of the straps. Pin one end of the tape at the neckline of the dress, swing it over your shoulder, and pin or hold the other end where you want the strap to attach at the back.
- Cut and prepare the fabric: Purchase fabric that matches your dress. Cut out two strips of fabric, each about 3 to 4 inches wide. Fold and iron the fabric to the desired width.
- Sew the straps: Sew the sides of the fabric strips together to create long, flattened tubes for the straps. Pin the straps to the back of the dress, crossing them if you've chosen cross-back straps. Sew the straps in place, following the same procedure as when sewing the front straps.
Tips and Considerations
- Basic sewing skills and equipment are needed for this alteration.
- If your dress is made of lace, consider hand-sewing the straps to avoid snagging the fabric in a machine.
- Ensure the straps are securely attached but also that you can get out of the dress easily.
- If you're concerned about the cost of alterations, discuss the options with your tailor or consider buying detachable straps that clip onto the dress.
Adding straps to your wedding dress can provide both functional and aesthetic benefits. With careful planning and execution, you can achieve a beautiful and comfortable look for your special day.
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Add beading or appliques
Adding beading or appliques to your wedding dress is a great way to add a unique, personalised touch to your special day. Beading and appliques can be used to bring attention to specific parts of the dress, such as the back, and provide a unique sparkle.
Appliques are hand-cut or laser-cut pieces of fabric that are sewn onto a dress. The most common type is lace appliques, which often feature floral designs. Appliques with beads sewn on top of the fabric are called "beaded appliques". These can be glued or sewn on, so be sure to check with your seamstress before making any changes. Beaded appliques are a great way to add some glamour to a simple dress.
Beading can be used to bring richness and texture to plain wedding dress fabrics. Beads can be made from glass, crystals, gems, pearls or other iridescent materials. Beads in ivory and silver are common for wedding gowns, but you can choose beads that match your wedding colour palette for a subtle pop of colour. Beading can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, so heavily beaded gowns tend to be more expensive.
If you're looking to add some beading or appliques to the back of your dress, consider using them to create a new neckline or backline. A soft mesh at the backline can provide support for the bust while still giving a sexy look. You could also add beaded straps or sleeves to your dress.
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Remove lace details
If you want to remove lace details from the back of your wedding dress, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to consult a professional seamstress who can advise on the best course of action for your specific dress. They will be able to assess the construction of the dress and determine the best method for removing the lace without damaging the rest of the garment.
In some cases, the lace may be glued on rather than sewn, which can complicate the removal process. If the lace is glued on, it may not be possible to remove it without damaging the dress. However, a skilled seamstress will be able to advise on alternative solutions, such as covering the lace with a different fabric or adding a layer of tulle to conceal it.
If the lace is sewn on, the seamstress can carefully unstitch it before altering the dress as needed. Depending on the desired alterations, they may be able to reapply the original lace details or use new lace to create a different design. This process can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, so it's important to factor in the additional cost and time required for these custom changes.
To maintain the integrity of the dress, it's recommended to seek the expertise of a bridal stylist and seamstress who specialise in wedding dress alterations. They will work together to ensure that your vision is achieved while preserving the beauty and structure of the gown. It's also helpful to provide them with inspiration pictures so they can better understand your desired outcome.
Additionally, it's important to consider the timing of your alterations. If you plan to train or lose weight before your wedding, communicate this to your seamstress so they can take your changing body into account when making alterations. This will ensure that your dress fits perfectly on your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
The cost of changing the back of a wedding dress will depend on the style you want and the complexity of the change. It is recommended to consult a seamstress to get a quote.
The time it takes to change the back of a wedding dress will depend on the complexity of the change and the number of fittings required. Brides should expect to attend two to three fittings during this process.
Common changes to the back of a wedding dress include opening it up, adding more cover, and altering the closure. You can also add beading, appliques, pearls, or buttons.
You can find a seamstress by searching online or asking for recommendations from friends or family members who have recently been married. It is important to consult with a few different seamstresses to find one who understands your vision and can work within your budget.
