Franklin Dean
Wedding dress alterations are an integral part of the bridal fashion journey. Brides may need to alter their wedding dress for a variety of reasons, such as to ensure a perfect fit, to make it more practical for the reception, or to repurpose it after the wedding day. Alterations can range from simple changes, such as hemming the length of the gown, to more extensive modifications, such as adding straps, sleeves, or beading. Some brides may even opt to change into a second dress for the reception, allowing them to showcase a different style and have more freedom to dance and move comfortably. Whether it's altering the original dress or choosing a second option, careful planning and timing are essential to ensure a smooth process and create lasting memories.
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What You'll Learn
Hemming the length
Hemming a wedding dress is a common step in the alterations process, as most wedding dresses are designed with a standard length and will need to be adjusted to fit the bride's height and shoe choice. When deciding on the hem length, consider the following:
Indoor Venues
For indoor venues with smooth, even flooring, a traditional floor-length hem is usually suitable. The front of the dress should sit about an inch off the floor to prevent tripping, while the back of the dress can gently graze or touch the floor.
Outdoor Weddings
For outdoor weddings on grass, sand, or cobblestone, a slightly shorter hem is often preferred to prevent snags or stains. A toe-length hem is ideal for beach or garden weddings to prevent dragging on uneven surfaces.
Type of Shoe
The type of shoe you plan to wear is another important consideration. If you're wearing heels for the ceremony and switching to flats later, the hem can be adjusted to accommodate both. Changing from flats to heels will shorten the dress, while switching from heels to flats will lengthen it. It's worth noting that going from a taller heel to a shorter heel is less likely to impact the hem compared to changing from a shorter heel to a taller one, which may result in the dress appearing too short.
Dress Style
The style of the dress also plays a role in determining the ideal hem length. A-line and ball gowns typically feature a floor-length or slight train hem, while fitted or mermaid styles may require a closer-fitting hem for easier movement. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon or tulle may benefit from a slightly higher hem for better walkability.
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the perfect hem length depends on your personal preference and comfort. Some brides prefer a standard floor-length hem, while others may opt for a shorter hem to showcase embellished shoes or choose a ballerina-length hem for a vintage or playful touch.
It is recommended to bring your wedding shoes or a pair of similar height to your fitting appointments to ensure accurate hemming. On average, 3-4 fittings are needed, with the first fitting reviewing what needs to be tailored, the second fitting making adjustments, the third finalising them, and the fourth for a final try-on and pick-up.
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Removing lace, beading, or sleeves
Lace is a popular feature of wedding dresses, and it's important to know how to care for it. If your dress has lace, you may need to clean it before your wedding day. Professional cleaners use spot cleaning techniques to remove stains like wine, grease, and grime. You can also try to clean the lace yourself by filling a tub with hot, soapy water and hanging the dress over the edge for a few hours. Then, use a toothbrush and liquid detergent to gently scrape away any remaining stains.
Beading is another common feature of wedding dresses. If you want to remove beads from your dress, first assess how they are attached. Some beads are attached to a mesh netting fabric and can be removed all at once, while others are connected in long chains or attached individually. If your beads are attached individually, use a seam ripper or small scissors to clip the thread, then gently pull on the thread to find the next bead. Store the beads in a small bowl or bag as you go.
If you want to remove sleeves from your dress, first cut off the sleeve, leaving a couple of inches of fabric. Then, use a serger to serge off the excess sleeve about 5/8" from the seam line. If you don't have a serger, carefully measure and trim off the excess fabric. Finally, turn the remaining piece of sleeve to the inside and top stitch it into place, then press it flat.
Remember that making alterations to your wedding dress can be stressful, so it's best to buy your dress early and leave plenty of time for fittings and tailoring. If you're making major changes, such as removing sleeves or beading, be sure to budget extra time for the alteration process.
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Changing the neckline
There are many different types of necklines to choose from, each offering its own aesthetic appeal and the ability to transform the overall look of your gown. A popular option is the sweetheart neckline, which forms a soft heart shape across the bust, creating a romantic and feminine look that can flatter various body types. Another timeless option is the bateau neckline, which extends along each collarbone, drawing attention upwards towards your face. If you're looking for something more alluring, an off-the-shoulder neckline might be a good choice.
When altering the neckline, you can also consider adding sleeves for a more modest look, especially if you're adapting your dress for a different season. Long sleeves can provide elegance and warmth for autumn or winter weddings. Beading is another popular option to add sparkle and intricacy to your gown, whether you prefer delicate or bold designs.
The cost of altering the neckline can vary depending on the complexity of the change. Simple neckline alterations can start from as little as $50, while more intricate changes, such as adding lace or beading, can cost a few hundred dollars. It is important to keep in mind that the number of fittings required will also depend on the complexity of the alterations, so be sure to schedule your appointments accordingly.
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Adding straps, sleeves, or a train
Adding Straps
Straps can be easily added to a strapless wedding dress. You can order matching fabric to have your seamstress make the straps, or use excess fabric from the hem of the dress. Detachable straps can also be clipped, snapped, or secured to your dress and removed at your convenience.
Adding Sleeves
Adding sleeves to a wedding dress is a common alteration. You can purchase sleeves separately and bring them to your seamstress, or work with them to decide on the best sleeve type for your dress. Depending on the sleeve, your seamstress may use excess fabric from the dress's hem, or you may need to source matching fabric. You can also add a bolero, shrug, or sweater for a no-sew option.
Adding a Train
A detachable train can add style and drama to your dress without the hassle of a built-in train. You can opt for a half-skirt, which goes halfway around the waist, or a full skirt. A detachable train can also be added as a belt tied around the waist.
It is important to consult a trusted seamstress when considering alterations to your wedding dress, to ensure your desired look is achieved.
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Planning for a second dress
Planning for a second wedding dress can be a tricky affair, but it is also an opportunity to express yourself and your style. Here are some tips to help you plan for that second dress:
Be Open-Minded
When it comes to shopping for a second wedding dress, it is essential to keep an open mind. Embrace this new chapter in your life and think about choosing a style that enhances your beauty and reflects your personality. You might want to consider steering away from traditional frilly looks or long princess gowns and instead opt for something more sleek and modern, like a simple cocktail dress or an elegant evening gown.
Consider the Formality
The time of day and the level of formality of your wedding should guide your choice of attire. If your first wedding was a grand affair, you may want to scale things down for your second celebration and vice versa. This doesn't mean you can't wear white or ivory if you choose, but you might want to avoid certain traditional elements to make your second wedding feel unique.
Repurpose Your First Dress
If you loved your first wedding dress, there are ways to repurpose it for your second wedding. You can simplify the design by removing lace details, beading, or sleeves to create a more versatile silk dress. Shortening the length can also give it a completely different feel, allowing you to pair it with heels or boots for a playful look. Alternatively, you can transform your original dress into two separate garments, a top and a skirt, giving you multiple outfit options for your second wedding.
Timing is Key
When planning for a second dress, be sure to leave enough time for fittings and alterations. It is recommended to buy your dress 10 months before the wedding and schedule fittings accordingly. Major changes to the design might require extra time, so be sure to communicate your plans clearly with your seamstress.
Accessorise
If you decide to stick with your original dress, you can easily change up your look with accessories. Layering jewellery, jackets, or other accessories can give your dress a whole new feel, allowing you to style it up or down depending on the formality of your second wedding.
Planning a second wedding dress is an opportunity to embrace your new journey. Whether you choose to repurpose your first dress or shop for something new, remember to keep an open mind and focus on expressing your unique style.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended to buy your wedding dress 10 months before the wedding, then schedule a fitting 8 to 12 weeks before the wedding and a final fitting no later than 2 weeks before.
On average, 3-4 fittings are needed. The first fitting is to review what needs to be tailored and modified, the second is to adjust the bodice and work on the hem, the third is to finalise everything, and the fourth is to try the dress on one last time and pick it up.
The cost of alterations depends on the complexity of the changes. Some salons charge per service, for example, $225 to shorten your gown, $150 to resew seams, etc. Others charge a flat fee of around $500 to $900 that covers everything. Design changes can cost anywhere from $50 to a few hundred.
Changing your wedding dress for the reception can add diversity to your pictures and videos, allowing you to get creative with your poses, themes, and setting. It can also be more practical, allowing you to wear something more comfortable and less restrictive, especially if your ceremony gown is hard to move around in or dance with. Additionally, changing into a second dress can help preserve your wedding gown and keep it stain-free and wrinkle-free during the reception festivities.
