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Wedding dress trains can be shortened, but it is a lot of work and can be costly. The process involves laying the hem of the dress flat on a table and using a seam gauge to determine how much needs to be removed. If there is a lot of fabric to remove, the train will need to be hemmed all the way around. This can be done at home, but it is important to take your time and follow the correct steps. Alternatively, a local alterations shop can be sought out for assistance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost | Hemming a wedding dress train can be expensive, with some tailors charging $75 for a hem. |
| Complexity | Hemming a wedding dress train is a complex process that involves twice the work of a regular wedding gown hem. |
| Sewing skills required | Basic sewing skills are sufficient to hem a wedding dress train. |
| Time required | Hemming a wedding dress train can be time-consuming, but taking the time to follow each step in the correct order will produce good results. |
| Materials required | A seam gauge, pins, chalk or a tailor's pen/pencil, a serger, and thread are required to hem a wedding dress train. |
| Impact on dress | Hemming a wedding dress train can impact the shape and volume of the dress, particularly if it has a detailed lace or crystal design. |
| Alternatives | Instead of shortening the train, it can be bustled, either all the way up or just shortened a little. |
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What You'll Learn
Hemming a wedding dress with a train
Trying on the Dress and Determining the Length:
First, put on the wedding dress with the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your big day. This step is crucial for determining the accurate length you want for your dress. With the help of a friend, place a line of pins at the front of the dress, marking where you want the hem to fall, just grazing the floor.
Measuring and Marking the Hem:
Lay the dress flat on a table and use a seam gauge to determine how much fabric needs to be removed. If you need to take off less than 2 inches, you can simply hem the front of the dress by tapering at the side seams. However, if you need to remove more than 2 inches, you will need to hem the entire circumference of the dress, including the train. Use chalk to mark a straight line all around the wrong side of the fabric, indicating the new hem length.
Cutting and Testing:
Using a rotary blade and a cutting mat, carefully cut along the marked line. Take your time and follow the line as accurately as possible, as this step is crucial for a professional finish. Once you've cut off the excess fabric, cut it into smaller pieces and use them to test different stitches and thread colours to find the best match for your fabric.
Sewing the New Hem:
Finish the raw edge of the new hem by using a serger and a complementary colour thread. Always test the serger stitch on scrap fabric first to ensure you don't stretch or bunch the fabric. You can then proceed to stitch the new hem by hand or using a sewing machine, depending on your preference and skill level.
Blending the Train:
If you want to retain the length of the train, you can blend it by tapering from the side seams towards the middle of the back. This technique will ensure a smooth transition from the hemmed front to the original length of the train.
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Removing the train entirely
If you're considering removing the train from your wedding dress, it's important to remember that it's your dress and your wedding, so you should do what you want! Many brides have removed the train from their wedding dresses and have no regrets.
There are several reasons why someone might want to remove the train from their wedding dress. For example, if you're having an outdoor wedding, you might not want your dress to drag on the ground and get dirty, or have leaves and sticks getting caught in the fabric. If you're having a beach wedding, you might want to simplify your dress by removing the train. You might also want to remove the train if you dislike the look of bustles, or if you don't want to worry about someone stepping on and ripping your dress.
If you're considering removing the train from your dress, it's a good idea to consult a seamstress. They will be able to advise you on whether removing the train is a good idea for your particular dress, and they can also make the alterations for you. It's worth noting that some seamstresses might try to talk you out of removing the train, so if you're set on the idea, you may need to seek a second opinion.
When removing a train, you will need to cut off some of the train fabric. This is because the weight of the fabric causes the skirt to hang towards the back, so removing the train will cause the skirt to shift towards the front. You will then need to hem the dress to ensure that it is the correct length. It's important to measure the hem with the bride wearing the dress to ensure that it is the correct length all the way around.
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Bustling the train
Before your dress fitting, it is important to know that one bustle does not fit all gowns, and there are many options to choose from. During your wedding dress alteration appointment, your seamstress can help you determine which type of bustle will work best with your gown.
One popular way to pick up the train is with the American bustle, also known as an over-bustle. This look is achieved by lifting the outside of the train and securing it over the back of the gown to the waistline. Another option is the ballroom bustle, where the train is folded up inside the dress and attached to hooks or buttons.
To successfully bustle a wedding dress train, bridal stylist Hope LaVine offers the following tips: First, trust the seamstress to recommend the best type of bustle for the silhouette of the gown, the amount of fabric, and how you plan to wear your dress. Next, delegate the task of dress bustling to a trusted individual, usually a bridesmaid or family member. Finally, ensure you have given yourself enough time between the ceremony and reception to bustle your dress.
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Sewing skills required
Hemming a wedding dress with a train requires some basic sewing skills and a lot of patience. Here are the steps you can follow:
Trying on the Dress: Begin by trying on the wedding dress with the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day. This will help you determine the accurate length you want for the dress. With the help of an assistant, place a line of pins at the front of the dress, marking where the hem touches the floor.
Measuring the Hem: Lay the dress flat on a table and use a seam gauge to measure how much fabric needs to be shortened. If you need to remove less than 2 inches, you can simply taper the sides at the seams without hemming the entire dress. However, if you need to remove more than 2 inches, you will need to hem all the way around.
Marking the Hem Line: Using chalk, mark a straight line all around the dress at the desired height. Chalk is a good option, but you can also use a tailor's pen or pencil, depending on the fabric. This line will serve as your guide for cutting and hemming.
Cutting the Fabric: Once you've marked the hem line, cut off the excess fabric from the bottom of the dress. Cut the removed fabric into smaller pieces, and use this extra fabric to test out different stitches and techniques before starting the actual hemming.
Finishing the Raw Edge: Use a serger and a complementary colour thread to finish the raw edge of the new hem. It is crucial to test the serger stitch on scrap fabric first to ensure you don't stretch or bunch the fabric. Adjust the settings until you find the perfect stitch that suits your fabric.
Reattaching Embellishments: If your dress has lace, beads, or other embellishments, you may need to reattach them after hemming. Carefully cut and remove the embellishments, and then sew them back onto the dress once the new hem is in place.
Hemming a wedding dress train can be a challenging task, but with careful measurements, patience, and basic sewing skills, it is possible to achieve a professional-looking result. Remember to take your time and follow each step carefully to ensure your dress fits perfectly for your special day.
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Cost of alterations
The cost of shortening a wedding dress train can vary depending on several factors. Basic alterations to a wedding dress typically range from $150 to $700, with more complex changes and intricate embellishments commanding higher prices. Shortening a train specifically can cost between $30 to $250, with the price influenced by factors such as the style and fabric of the gown, the skill level of the seamstress, and the location of the service.
The style and fabric of the wedding dress play a significant role in determining the alteration cost. For instance, gowns crafted from silk or satin tend to be more expensive to alter due to the intricate hand stitching required. Similarly, dresses with delicate fabrics and intricate embellishments, such as lace and beading, will likely incur higher costs. The thickness and machine requirements of the fabric also come into play, with alterations for a leather dress typically costing 50% more than a fabric dress.
The skill and experience of the seamstress or tailor are other crucial factors influencing the price. Professional seamstresses with extensive experience often charge higher fees than those who are newer to the field. Additionally, the location of the service can impact the cost, with alterations in big cities or states generally carrying higher price tags due to overhead expenses like storefront rental and taxes. On the other hand, dress alteration costs tend to be lower in rural areas.
It is worth noting that shortening a garment is generally considered one of the most inexpensive types of alterations, often ranging from $25 to $45. However, wedding dress alterations can be more intricate and costly due to the nature of the garment. It is always advisable to consult with a local alterations shop or seamstress to obtain an accurate quote based on the specific dress and desired alterations.
While it is possible to attempt alterations at home, especially with basic sewing skills, there is a risk of causing more harm than good. Professional seamstresses are equipped with the training and expertise to ensure that your wedding dress is altered flawlessly while taking into account the unique characteristics of the fabric and design.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is possible to shorten a wedding dress train. You can do it yourself if you have basic sewing skills, or you can get it professionally altered.
The cost of shortening a wedding dress train can vary. It may be more expensive than a regular hem due to the extra work involved. Simple hems can be done at home with basic sewing skills, saving you money. However, more complex alterations, such as those involving lace and crystals, can be costly and may be best left to professionals.
The process involves trying on the dress with the appropriate undergarments and shoes, marking the desired length, cutting off the excess fabric, and then finishing the new hem. If there are embellishments like lace or beads, these can be reattached or sewn back on after the alteration.
Yes, instead of shortening the train, you can consider bustling it. A bustle will lift the train off the floor, shortening its effective length without actually removing any fabric. This can be a good option if you want to preserve the design elements of the train.
