Stunning Stability: Secrets To A Structured Wedding Gown

Wedding dresses are often preserved as a treasured heirloom, so it's important to know how to ensure their longevity. Wedding dress preservation is a special cleaning and packaging process that ensures the garment will retain its quality for years to come. This involves removing stains, repairing any damage, and housing the dress in an acid-free box with acid-free tissue paper to support its folds. It's also crucial to choose the right storage container and location, as well as the appropriate cleaning methods, to avoid damaging the dress.

Choosing the right fabric

Some popular fabrics for wedding dresses include chiffon, jersey, moire, organza, satin, silk, taffeta, and tulle. Here are some characteristics of each:

• Chiffon: Delicate, sheer, and often layered
• Jersey: Elastic knit fabric with lengthwise and crosswise ribbing
• Moire: Heavy silk taffeta with a wavy design
• Organza: Crisp, sheer, and stiffer texture
• Satin: Heavy, smooth, and high sheen
• Silk: Expensive, comes in multiple textures
• Taffeta: Crisp, smooth, with slight ribbing
• Tulle: Netting made of silk, nylon, or rayon; used mostly for skirts and veils

When choosing a fabric, consider the weight, drape, and texture. You'll also want to think about the colour and whether you want something sheer or opaque. If you're unsure, it's a good idea to try on dresses in different fabrics to get a sense of how they look and feel.

Additionally, the fabric you choose will impact the level of difficulty of making the dress. For example, adding sleeves to a wedding dress or altering the neckline can be challenging, especially if you're working with delicate fabrics like chiffon or organza.

If you're unsure about which fabric to choose, it's best to consult with a professional seamstress or bridal stylist. They can provide guidance based on your specific dress design and body measurements.

Getting the right fit

Achieving the perfect fit for your wedding gown is a crucial part of the bridal experience. Here are some tips to ensure your dress fits like a glove and complements your unique figure:

The Right Measurements

It is essential to take accurate measurements to ensure a precise fit. Ask a friend to help with this, as it is more accurate than measuring yourself. Take measurements at the fullest part of your bust, keeping in mind the bra you plan to wear on your big day. For the hips, stand naturally with your heels together and measure the fullest part. To measure your waist, find the natural curve, usually about 1" above your belly button. Don't forget to account for your wedding shoes when measuring from the collarbone to the desired hem length.

Choose a Flattering Shape

Different wedding dress shapes flatter various body types. Try on different styles to determine which works best for your figure. For instance, an apple body type typically suits empire waistlines and A-line silhouettes, while a pear body may favour ball gowns or A-line shapes. If you're sewing your own dress, opt for a basic shape and fabric that allows for mistakes if you're a beginner.

Standard Alterations

Standard alterations include adjusting the bust, taking in the waist, and refining the hips. These alterations ensure the gown stays in place and complements your curves. Additionally, a hem and bustle are often necessary to achieve the desired length and manage the train.

Custom Changes

A skilled bridal seamstress can make various custom changes to your gown. Common requests include altering the neckline, adding sleeves, changing the backline, and resizing the dress. If you desire a plunging neckline, soft mesh can provide support while maintaining a sexy look. Adding sleeves is another popular trend, especially with lace gowns. Lowering the backline can also be an option, but ensure it doesn't compromise the support and fit of the waist.

Fitting Timeline

Schedule at least three fittings to ensure the perfect fit. The first fitting should occur about three months before the wedding, the second a month later, and the final fitting two weeks before the big day. If you're making extensive customisations, you may need an additional fitting.

Entourage Etiquette

When it comes to fittings, it's best to bring only one or two trusted friends or family members. Too many opinions can be overwhelming and stressful. For the final fitting, bring someone who will help you get ready on your wedding day, as they can learn how to zip, lace, or bustle your dress.

Budgeting for Alterations

Don't forget to include wedding alterations in your budget. Costs can vary depending on the dress and adjustments needed, but most brides spend a few hundred dollars, sometimes up to $1,000. The more customisations you desire, the higher the cost will likely be.

Remember, achieving the perfect fit for your wedding gown is a collaborative process between you, your seamstress, and your bridal salon. Be vocal about your vision and any concerns, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Adding sleeves

Types of Sleeves

There are many types of sleeves to choose from, each offering a unique look and feel. Here are some popular options:

• Cap sleeves: These are short and sweet, usually covering slightly below the shoulder. They blend well with dresses that already have straps.
• Off-the-shoulder lace sleeves: This style is romantic and elegant. It can be added quickly and is perfect for brides with tight timelines.
• Puff sleeves: If you want to make a statement, puff sleeves are perfect. They add volume and drama to your look.
• Detachable sleeves: Detachable sleeves are a versatile option, allowing you to have a more conservative look for the ceremony and then let loose during the reception.
• Long sleeves: Long sleeves add romance and comfort, perfect for fall or winter weddings or for those wanting more coverage.
• Illusion sleeves: These sleeves create a whimsical and elegant look.

Choosing the Right Fabric

When adding sleeves, it's important to choose the right fabric. Popular choices include tulle, lace, organza, or lace applique. If you want more structured sleeves, consider using satin or a fabric that can hold its shape.

Matching Sleeves with Dress Style

When adding sleeves, you need to consider the style of your dress. You can choose elegant puff sleeves or dramatic detachable sleeves for a classic dress. If your dress has a unique style, ensure the fabric and shape of the sleeves complement it.

Budgeting for Sleeve Addition

If you're on a budget, consider adding a bolero, wedding sweater, or other no-sew options, which can cost around $25 to $200. For more complex sleeve additions, you may need to enlist a professional seamstress or tailor, which can cost between $250 to $500, depending on the complexity.

Consulting with a Professional Tailor

Consulting with a professional is crucial to achieving your desired look. Find a local tailor with good reviews and be clear about what you want. Bring photos of the style you're aiming for. If they don't think your vision is possible, be open to their expertise and suggestions. You'll also need multiple fittings to ensure the perfect fit.

DIY Tips for Adding Sleeves

If you're handy with a needle and thread, you may attempt to add sleeves yourself. Simple DIY options include purchasing a bolero, wedding jacket, or sweater to wear over your dress. If you're more experienced, you can add straps or detachable sleeves. Just be sure to choose the right type of needle and thread color to ensure a seamless match.

Hemming the dress

Hemming the length of the dress ensures the bride won't trip over while walking down the aisle and posing for photos. The hem should gently graze the floor, allowing the bride to walk, dance and mingle with guests. It's important to wear the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day to the fitting so the seamstress knows how to hem the gown.

If you are wearing a mini or midi dress, a hemline alteration can also be done to ensure the length is perfect.

Cleaning and preservation

Wedding dress cleaning and preservation is a special process that ensures the garment retains its quality for years to come. It is not as simple as dry cleaning and storing the dress in a box. Preservation involves using highly specialised, acid-free materials to ensure the long-term physical and chemical stability of the fabric.

The first step in wedding dress preservation is professional cleaning. Expert cleaners use techniques specifically designed for delicate fabrics and intricate details. They will be able to deal with any stains on the dress, from those that are invisible to the naked eye to visible stains like dirt from pictures in the garden or red wine.

Once the dress has been cleaned, it should be packaged using professional folding techniques and acid-free materials. Lofting tissues are used to support all folds and parts of the dress, like the skirt, sleeves, and bust. The dress is then placed in an acid-free box.

The Preservation Box

The preservation box should be museum-quality and designed to protect the dress for generations to come. It should not be sealed airtight—instead, it should be able to be opened at least once a year to check on the dress. The box should measure around 30x20x10 inches.

Cost

The cost of wedding dress preservation varies but can be anywhere from $250 to $1,000, depending on location and the level of work required.

Timing

The entire process can take anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks, or even 8 to 10 weeks. It is best to get the dress to a preservationist as soon as possible after the wedding to prevent stains from setting in.

Choosing a Preservation Company

When choosing a company to clean and preserve your wedding dress, it is important to select a specialist in gown cleaning and preservation. Ask a lot of questions about their process, how many dresses they handle, what kind of dresses they work on, and their overall experience. It is also important to ensure they use a solvent that is gentle and pure enough for a wedding gown.

Frequently asked questions