George Boyle
A wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, so it's important that it fits you perfectly. Whether you've bought a second-hand dress that needs alterations, or your body has changed shape since you first tried it on, there are ways to extend a wedding dress to ensure it's the perfect fit. From adding a gusset to lengthening the train, this article will explore how to extend a wedding dress to make it fit like a glove.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for extending a wedding dress | The dress is too small, or the wearer wants to add a train for a more dramatic look |
| Extending the length of a wedding dress | Unpick the hem, add a fabric band, or buy two of the same dress and cut fabric from the second to add to the first |
| Extending the width of a wedding dress | Add diamond-shaped gussets to the side seams, or add panels to the back or sides |
| Other options | Convert to a lace-up back, add a corset, or make the back lower-cut |
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What You'll Learn
Lengthen the dress with a fabric band
Lengthening a wedding dress with a fabric band is a simple process, but it does require some planning and sewing skills. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you extend your wedding dress:
Choose the Right Fabric
Firstly, select a fabric that matches or complements your wedding dress. Consider the weight and drape of the original fabric. Taking the dress with you to the fabric store can help you find a good match. You will need approximately a quarter yard of fabric for a simple extension.
Prepare the Dress
Before adding the fabric band, you may need to unpick the original hem of the dress. Use steam to press the hem as flat as possible. This will give you more length to work with and ensure a smoother finish.
Cut and Sew the Fabric Band
Cut a strip of fabric that is approximately 2 inches wide and the length of your hem, plus a seam allowance. Sew the short ends of the fabric strip together, and then sew one of the raw long edges to the raw edge of your dress. Fold and press the seam flat, and then fold the new band to the back of the dress.
Finish the Hem
Finally, hem the fabric band and sew it to the inside of your dress. You can use reinforcement stitching at stress points like the waistline to ensure a strong hold. Give your dress a final press, and your wedding dress will be ready for the big day!
This method is a great way to add length to your wedding dress while also adding a unique and fashionable touch. With careful planning and execution, you can extend your dress gracefully and elegantly.
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Add a train for extra length
Adding a train to your wedding dress is a great way to add length and drama to your bridal look. A train is an extra length of fabric that trails behind you as you walk down the aisle, creating a poetic and graceful extension of your gown.
There are a few different ways to add a train to your wedding dress. One option is to attach a complementary fabric underneath the existing train, creating a longer layer that sweeps out. This can be done by a seamstress, and you may be able to order extra fabric from the company making your gown to ensure a perfect match. Another option is to create a longer, detachable train that attaches underneath the existing train. This option provides more flexibility, as the train can be removed for the reception, and you won't need to worry about matching the fabric exactly.
If you're looking for a detachable option, there are several types of trains to choose from. A Watteau train, for example, attaches to the shoulders or back of the dress, giving it a cape-like feel. It can be made of lightweight fabric, such as tulle or chiffon, to add drama without weight. Another option is a half-skirt, which attaches at the waist and goes halfway around, letting the bride show off her curves or the shape of the dress underneath. A detachable overskirt is another popular choice, as it allows you to add volume and length while creating a unique look.
Adding a train to your wedding dress can be a great way to achieve your dream bridal look. Whether you opt for a permanent or detachable option, a seamstress will be able to advise on the best way to add length and drama to your gown.
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Use gussets to extend the bust
Gussets are a great way to extend a wedding dress at the bust, especially if you don't want to alter the waistline or neckline. The gusset is usually a triangular or diamond-shaped piece of fabric inserted into the dress, often in the side seams under the arms, starting right under the armpit and ending at the waist seam. This method allows you to add material without removing sleeves.
To add gussets to the bust of a wedding dress, you'll need to take a few measurements. Measure the opening across the top of the dress and the distance down the side of the zipper to the zipper pull. Mark these measurements on a piece of paper to help guide your cutting. The gusset should be shaped like a wedge, with the wide end at the bust, where you need extra room. Cut the fabric accordingly.
When cutting the fabric for the gusset, it is important to use fabric that matches the dress exactly. Fabric from hemming the dress can sometimes be used for this purpose, but be aware that many bridal fabrics look different when they are turned or placed on their side. If the gusset fabric doesn't match, it may look odd or out of place.
After cutting the fabric, you'll need to sew the gusset into the dress. Remove the stitching on the area where you want to add the gusset, typically under the arm. Turn the sleeve to the wrong side and backstitch the ends of the ripped seam to secure it. Clip up to the seam, being careful not to cut the thread. Then, insert the gusset and sew it into place.
By following these steps and adjusting as needed, you can successfully use gussets to extend the bust of a wedding dress, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit.
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Let out the seams
Letting out the seams of a wedding dress is possible, but it depends on the construction of the gown and the fabric used. The first step is to determine if the dress can be let out by assessing the construction and fabric. Check if there is enough seam allowance, or extra fabric built into the seams, by turning the dress inside out and examining the side seams. Wedding dresses often include extra fabric at the seams to allow for minor size adjustments. If there is insufficient seam allowance, alternative methods such as fabric inserts or gussets may be required.
If there is enough seam allowance, the next step is to measure how much larger you need to make the dress. Use a measuring tape to determine your waist and hip measurements, and then measure the dress at these points. Subtract your measurements from the dress measurements and divide by two to find out how much you need to let out the dress on each side.
With the dress still inside out, try it on and use a marking pen to indicate where it starts to get tight and where it becomes comfortable. This will guide how much of the seam you need to remove. Take off the dress and use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches at the marked section. If the dress has an enclosed seam, no further sewing is needed. If there is an extra amount of folded fabric, you will need to sew it back up.
It is important to note that letting out a dress can be labour-intensive, especially if fabric inserts or other complex alterations are required. Beaded or lace-adorned dresses, for example, may require embellishments to be removed and reapplied. Consult a bridal tailor as early as possible to assess the best approach and obtain a timeline and cost estimate for the alterations.
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Add a corset back
Adding a corset back to a wedding dress is a great way to extend the dress and make it more flexible in terms of sizing. This method can be used for dresses that are too tight or small, or to accommodate a baby bump.
Firstly, you need to remove the zipper. Using a seam ripper, start at the top of the zipper and work your way down to where the dress can no longer be zipped up. Cut the zipper about half an inch above this point, fold over and sew. You may want to hand sew this part as it can be fiddly with a machine.
Next, you will need to create the loops and modesty panel. Decide how many loops you need and how far apart they will be spaced. The spacing can depend on the amount of space for the corset back, but typically they are spaced about 1 to 1.5 inches apart. Sew the bias strips together, following the instructions for creating the loops, and then sew the modesty panel to one side of the dress opening, overlapping by half an inch. The modesty panel should be sewn inside the left edge of the dress opening and then stitched along the corset loops to secure it.
Finally, lace up the corset and enjoy your beautiful, extended wedding dress!
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Frequently asked questions
Lengthening a wedding dress is a simple process. You can add a similar or contrasting fabric band to the bottom of the dress to give it additional length. First, unpick the hem of the dress and press it as flat as possible using steam. Then, cut a band of fabric about 2 inches wide by the length of your hem, plus a seam allowance. Sew the band together on the short ends, and then sew one raw edge to the raw edge of your dress. Finally, fold and press the seam flat, fold the new band to the back, and hem the band to the inside of your skirt.
The best way to make the bust of a wedding dress bigger is to add diamond-shaped gussets to the side seams. This method allows you to add material without removing sleeves or altering the waistline or neckline. The gusset will start right under the armpit and end at the waist seam.
Adding a train to your wedding dress will give it an extra touch of drama and elegance. To create a custom train, you will need basic sewing skills and design flair. A train can be removable or sewn on, and it should be attached to the dress at the hemline, mid-back, or hips, depending on the style of the gown. If you are unsure about adding a train, it is best to consult a professional tailor or seamstress.
