Expanding Your Wedding Gown: Easy Ways To Make It Bigger

There are several ways to make a wedding gown bigger, and the method you choose will depend on how much more room you need. If you only need to add a few inches, you can let the dress out at the seams using the seam allowance. If there isn't enough seam allowance, you can add panels of matching fabric to the sides of the dress. Another option is to reconstruct the dress entirely. In some cases, you may be able to restyle the back of the dress, lowering it or creating a keyhole back to allow for more room. Converting a zipper to a lace-up corset back is another way to add extra room to a dress, and this option also gives you the flexibility to adjust the fit as needed.

Letting out seams

To let out a dress, you will need to determine if the dress can be let out, take your measurements, inspect the extra fabric on the dress, remove the dress seams, and then sew it back up.

First, turn the dress inside out and look at the side seams to see if there is extra fabric that can be let out. There are two ways to do this. One, look for extra fabric at the side seam that is folded along the seam. If you remove the stitches, the extra fabric will unfold. Two, if your dress has an enclosed seam with two lines of stitching, you can remove the first line of stitching to access the extra fabric.

Next, take your measurements. Measure around your waist and hips and write these numbers down. Then, measure from one side seam to the other on the dress at the waist and hips, and write these numbers down. Subtract your waist and hip measurements from the dress measurements, and divide this number by two. This is the number of inches you will need to let out the dress on each side.

Now, try on the dress while it is still inside out. Use a marking pen to mark the top and bottom of where it starts to get tight. Remove the dress and use a seam ripper to remove the seam at one of the sides, starting at the top mark and ending at the bottom mark. Be careful not to rip any of the fabric while removing the stitches.

Finally, sew the dress back up. If your dress has an enclosed seam, you are done as the outer seam is still intact. If your dress had extra fabric that was folded, you will need to sew it back up. Mark where you need the new seam to be, based on your measurements, and then use a sewing machine to sew it back up. Press the new seams with an iron so they lay flat.

Adding panels of matching fabric

To begin, you will need to choose the fabric you wish to use. If you have made other alterations to your dress, such as large hems, you may be able to use that fabric for the panel. This ensures an exact match. If not, take a fabric sample to your local fabric store and find a close match. If you are choosing a different colour, be sure to use the same type of fabric as the original so that the dress has the same sheen and finish.

Next, lay the dress on a clean, flat work surface, ensuring you have enough room to move the dress without causing any accidents such as stains or rips. Before removing any seams, decide on the number of panels you need and where you want them placed.

After that, cut your fabric to the appropriate length and width, allowing for a one-inch hem on each side. Turn the skirt of the gown inside out and pin the fabric panel in place, inserting pins where you plan to stitch. Start stitching from the bottom of the gown, finishing one side before moving to the other. If your gown has already been hemmed, you should redo the hem so it is continuous across the new panel.

Finally, trim any excess fabric and press the seams with an iron to ensure the new panel flows with the rest of the skirt. Be sure to ask your fabric or dress store about the recommended iron temperature to avoid scorching the fabric.

Restyling the back of the dress

One way to do this is by changing a zip to a lace-up corset. This involves removing the zip from the dress and stitching fabric loops down each side of the opening, which are then tied together with a ribbon. A "modesty panel" can be added underneath the lacing, covering the back to just below the hip. This not only makes the dress bigger but also provides adjustability to accommodate any weight changes leading up to the wedding. If your dress already has a lace-up back, a wider modesty panel may be all that is needed to solve the problem of a too-small dress.

Another option for restyling the back of the dress is to completely transform it by opening it up or adding more coverage. For example, you could add a lace back to a strapless gown. This type of alteration requires a designing eye to create a plan for the new back of the dress, and it is recommended to have some inspiration pictures to show your seamstress. This option tends to be more expensive, with prices starting at around €150.

Converting a zipper to a lace-up corset

To replace a zipper with a lace-up corset, you will need the following materials:

• A zipper replacement lace-up kit, which includes fabric loops, a modesty panel, and a lace-up tie.
• Boning, if not included in the kit.
• Fabric that matches the dress, if additional fabric is needed.
• Matching ribbon for the lacing, if you don't want to make your own.
• Sewing tools such as a sewing machine, needles, thread, scissors, etc.

The process involves unpicking the zipper, stitching the fabric loops down each side of the opening, and tying them together with a ribbon. The modesty panel is then hand-stitched to the back of one side panel, covering the entire back of the dress to just below the hip. This not only adds width to the dress but also provides an adjustable fit.

• Determine the amount of zipper length that won't zip and add at least 1 inch to that measurement to decide on the length of your lace-up kit.
• Make your pattern pieces for the side panels and modesty panel, adding seam allowances all around.
• Cut out the panels and strips for the lacing. You will need four side panel pieces, two modesty panel pieces, and long strips (approximately 5 yards) for the lacing if making your own.
• Fold and baste the loops. Make the loops about 1 inch apart and 1 inch deep, starting 1 inch from the bottom edge and ending 1/2 inch from the top.
• Sew the side panels by placing one non-looped side panel piece right sides together with a looped piece. Stitch around the long sides and the wider top edge, then clip corners and turn the panel right side out.
• Repeat this process for the other side panel and the modesty panel, which won't have any loops.
• Cut boning pieces to length and feed them into the panels, using pins to keep them in place. Stitch a channel to secure the boning.
• Use a seam ripper to unpick the zipper to the desired stopping point.
• Place one side panel under one side of the back opening and topstitch it in place or sew it to the seam allowance.
• Hand-stitch the other side of the panel to the lining of the dress using a whip stitch.
• Hand-stitch the modesty panel to the back of one side panel.
• Thread the lacing through the bottom loops and then lace it like a shoelace, back and forth through every other loop.

Using a sash to cinch the waist

A sash can be a great way to add a bit of pizzazz to your wedding gown and show off your personal style. Here are some tips on how to use a sash to cinch the waist of your wedding gown and make it bigger:

Choosing the Right Sash

First, you'll want to choose a sash that complements your gown and reflects your style. Consider the colour, fabric, and any embellishments you want on the sash. You can opt for a simple satin ribbon or go for something more glamorous with rhinestones, pearls, and glass beads.

Tying the Sash

There are several ways to tie a sash, depending on the look you're going for. For a traditional look, simply wrap the sash around your waist and let the ends hang down at the back. If you want something more modern, try crisscrossing the sash at the back or tying it in a bow.

Adjusting the Fit

When wrapping the sash around your waist, make sure it's not too tight or too loose. You want it to be comfortable and secure. Play around with the length of the sash and how many times you wrap it around your waist to get the right fit.

Adding Embellishments

If you want to add some extra sparkle or a pop of colour, consider embellishing your sash. You can attach rhinestones, pearls, or other decorative elements to the sash using fabric glue or by sewing them on.

Combining with Other Alterations

Using a sash to cinch your waist can be combined with other alterations to make your wedding gown bigger. For example, you can let out the seams or add panels of matching fabric to the gown for more room, while using the sash to define your waist and add a stylish touch.

Remember to experiment with different ways of tying the sash and don't be afraid to have fun with it! It's a great way to personalise your wedding gown and make it truly yours.

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