Junior Rasmussen
A wedding dress is often the most important part of a bride's wedding day, but it can be stressful to ensure it fits perfectly. Wedding dresses are usually made for a woman of a certain height, so alterations are often required to ensure the dress is the correct length. Wedding dresses may also need to be adjusted if the bride's measurements change before the wedding day. This guide will explain how to compress a wedding dress to ensure it fits like a glove.
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What You'll Learn
Hemming the length
When hemming a wedding dress, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, if your dress has lace trimming at the bottom, you may want to keep this in mind when deciding how much to hem the dress. Additionally, if your dress has intricate lace appliques or beading, hemming may cause these details to be closer together than before. Another consideration is the number of fabric layers that will need to be hemmed.
If you are concerned about the height of your dress, an alternative to hemming is to modify the waist area and leave the bottom design unchanged. This option would require taking the bodice and skirt apart and readjusting both pieces to refit. However, this option may not be suitable for all dress styles.
It is important to consider the type of shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day, as the height of the heel can impact the length of your dress. If you change your mind about the height of your heels, you may need to have your dress hemmed again to ensure it is the correct length.
Hemming a wedding dress can be a complex process, so it is always recommended to consult a professional seamstress for alterations.
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Letting out the dress
If your wedding dress is too small, don't panic! There are several options for letting out the dress to make it bigger. Firstly, turn the dress inside out and check the seams for any extra fabric or seam allowance. Most wedding dresses are designed with some extra fabric, often around 1" or 2" of seam allowance on each side. If your seam allowance is 1/4" or less, letting out the seams may not be possible, and you'll need to consider other options.
If there is enough seam allowance, your seamstress should be able to undo the stitching on the side seams (under the arms) and let out the fabric to make the dress bigger. Typically, dresses can be let out by up to two sizes, but anything larger will require more extensive alterations. Your seamstress could also let out the zipper allowance or add a zipper extender at the back for some extra space.
If there is insufficient seam allowance to make the dress bigger, you may need to consider other options. One popular solution is to replace the back zipper with a corset back, which can add up to 5" of extra room. This involves removing the zipper, adding a panel of fabric, and incorporating corset loops.
It's important to remember that the cut of the dress and your body type can also impact the process of letting out a dress. For example, if you tend to gain weight in your hips and thighs, you may want to choose a dress style that accommodates those areas. Additionally, consider the style of your dress; for instance, a strapless dress needs to be tight enough to stay up, so it's essential to ensure it's not too loose after alterations.
To ensure a perfect fit, it's recommended to buy your wedding dress early, allowing plenty of time for fittings and alterations. The first alterations should be made around two months before the wedding, with a final fitting no later than two weeks before the big day. It's also crucial to bring your wedding-day essentials, such as shoes and undergarments, to your fittings to achieve the desired fit.
While letting out a wedding dress can be stressful, it's important to remember that alterations are common and can ensure your dress fits like a dream on your special day.
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Adding draped straps or sleeves
When adding draped straps or sleeves, it is essential to consider the style of your wedding dress and the desired look you want to achieve. For example, if you have a strapless dress, adding straps or cap sleeves can provide more support and coverage. Off-the-shoulder sleeves can be full-length or draped for a romantic and elegant look, and they can also be made detachable, allowing the bride to take them off for more freedom of movement during the wedding reception.
When choosing the type of sleeve or strap, you should also think about the fabric and colour that will best match your gown. Tulle, lace, and silk are popular choices for sleeves and straps, and they can be customized with details like pearls, beading, or lace accents.
It is recommended to work closely with a trusted seamstress to determine the best options for your dress. They will be able to advise on the different types of sleeves or straps that can be added and the alterations required to achieve your desired look. It is best to schedule a consultation with a seamstress about three months before the wedding to allow time for multiple fittings if necessary.
To maintain the shape of your dress while travelling, it is important to pack it carefully. Use tissue paper to mould and fill out the structured sections, such as the bust area, before placing the dress in a sturdy garment bag. Cover the dress with acid-free tissue paper to prevent creases, and consider using a wrinkle-release spray to help remove any wrinkles that may form during transit.
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Repurpose for everyday wear
A wedding dress is often a cherished garment that holds many memories, and repurposing it for everyday wear can be a wonderful way to continue enjoying it long after the wedding day. Here are some creative ways to give your wedding dress a new lease of life:
Start by carefully inspecting your wedding dress and considering its current state. Can the dress be dyed a different color? Dyeing your wedding dress can be a bold move, but it can also be a stunning way to transform it. Research fabric dyeing techniques and choose a color that speaks to you. This can be a fun way to give new life to a dress, perhaps dyeing it a deep shade of your favorite color, or even trying a tie-dye effect for a unique, boho look.
Another option is to alter the dress's length. Perhaps your wedding dress can be transformed into a chic mini dress or a stylish midi dress. You could also consider turning it into a blouse or a skirt, depending on the original design and your sewing skills (or those of a tailor you hire). Removing the train and any excessive fabric can instantly make the dress more wearable for everyday occasions.
If your wedding dress has intricate details like beading, lace, or embroidery, consider removing these elements and using them as decorative features on a new garment. For example, you could use the lace from your wedding dress to create a beautiful lace bodysuit or a delicate lace trim on a simple dress. Beading and embellishments can also be carefully removed and added to a plainer garment to give it a unique, personalized touch.
For a more casual, everyday look, you could also use the fabric from your wedding dress to create a comfortable and unique pair of wide-leg pants or a cozy cardigan. This is a great way to keep the memory of your wedding dress close, as you can wear these items regularly while still maintaining a sense of comfort and practicality.
Finally, if sewing isn't your forte, consider working with a skilled tailor or dressmaker who can help bring your vision to life. They can advise on the best ways to repurpose the dress and ensure that the final product is professionally finished and fits you perfectly. With their expertise, your wedding dress can truly shine in its new incarnation.
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Ordering the right length
The length of your wedding dress is an important consideration when packing for travel. If your dress is long and bulky, it may not fit in a standard carry-on bag and you may need to consider alternative options, such as a garment bag or a larger suitcase.
If your dress is on the longer side, you may want to consider rolling it up instead of folding it. Rolling can help prevent deep creases and wrinkles, and it can also save space in your luggage. However, be careful not to roll it too tightly, as this could damage the fabric, especially if it is delicate.
If you do decide to fold your dress, make sure to use acid-free tissue paper to line the folds and prevent creases from forming during travel. You can also use the tissue paper to mould and fill out structured sections of the dress, such as the bust area, to help maintain its shape.
When packing a long dress, it is crucial to choose the right hanger. Opt for a utilitarian hanger with traction to prevent the dress from slipping off. Make sure the hanger has straps so that you can distribute the weight of the dress evenly and avoid putting too much pressure on the dress straps.
Additionally, consider the length of the dress when choosing your travel bag. If your dress is very long, you may need a larger garment bag or suitcase to accommodate it without bending or crushing the fabric.
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Frequently asked questions
Hemming the length of the dress is one of the most common alterations for a wedding dress. Most bridal gowns are made for a 5'10" woman, so taller or shorter brides will need to adjust the length.
Other common alterations include adding a bustle, taking in the bodice, or adjusting the waist.
The cost of wedding dress alterations can vary depending on the type of alterations required. Simple alterations, such as hemming the length, may cost around $50, while more complex alterations, such as resewing seams or adding lace or beading, can cost a few hundred dollars.
If your wedding dress is too small, you can let it out by adding additional fabric to the side seams or replacing the back zipper with a corset back. You can also assess the construction and fabric of the dress to determine if it can be let out at the seams.
One of the easiest ways to make your wedding dress more wearable after your wedding is to shorten it. You can remove the train or shorten it to ankle, midi, or mini length. Simplifying any details that make it feel too bridal can also make it more versatile for multiple wears.
