Franklin Dean
Wedding dress alterations are an important part of the bridal fashion journey, and most dresses will require some adjustments to ensure they fit the bride perfectly. The first fitting usually takes place about eight weeks before the wedding, and it's important to bring your shoes, bra, and shapewear to this appointment. The seamstress will then be able to advise on what alterations need to be made, and you can ask for a looser or tighter fit depending on your preference. The second fitting is usually six weeks to a month before the wedding, and the final fitting should be about a month or two weeks before. If you're making major changes to the design, it's recommended to budget a few extra weeks. It's also a good idea to bring a relative or friend to your fittings for a second opinion.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of fittings | 3-4 fittings |
| First fitting | 2-3 months before the wedding |
| Second fitting | 6 weeks to a month before the wedding |
| Third fitting | 1 month before the wedding |
| Final fitting | 2 weeks before the wedding |
| What to bring | Shoes, bra, bridal shapewear, undergarments, jewellery, accessories |
| What to do | Check for puckering, bunching, bulging, speak up about any concerns, move around in the dress |
| Customisations | Off-the-shoulder straps, sleeves, train length, lace appliqués, beading, bustles, buttons |
| Cost | $50 to $1,000 depending on the service |
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What You'll Learn
The first fitting should take place 2-3 months before the wedding
The first fitting of your wedding dress is an important part of the bridal fashion journey. It is recommended that the first fitting should take place 2-3 months before the wedding. This timing allows for any necessary alterations to be made, ensuring that the dress fits the bride's body perfectly and meets all her specifications.
During the first fitting, the seamstress will examine the dress from head to toe, identifying any adjustments that need to be made. This may include taking the dress in or out, shortening or lengthening it, or making changes to the bodice, straps, or hem. The seamstress will also address any concerns the bride may have, such as puckering, bunching, or bulging, and collaborate with her to ensure her comfort and style preferences are met.
The first fitting is also an opportunity for the bride to visualize the overall look by trying on the dress with the appropriate undergarments, shoes, and accessories. This helps to ensure that the dress complements the bride's unique style and that she feels confident and comfortable on her big day.
It is important to note that the number of fittings required can vary, and some dresses may need more extensive changes. To accommodate this, it is advisable to purchase the dress 10 months before the wedding, allowing for multiple fittings and any necessary alterations.
By starting the fitting process 2-3 months in advance, the bride can rest assured that her dress will be ready well before the wedding day, reducing stress and allowing for any last-minute tweaks to ensure a perfect fit.
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Bring shoes, bra and shapewear to the first fitting
Wedding dress alterations are an integral part of the bridal fashion journey. It is important to ensure that your wedding dress fits perfectly and meets all your specifications. The first fitting usually takes place about eight weeks before the wedding day. It is important to bring your shoes, bra, and bridal shapewear to the first fitting so you can see how everything comes together.
The type of undergarments you bring to the first fitting depends on the type of dress you will be wearing. For example, if your wedding dress has a plunging neckline, low back, skirt slit, or illusion fabric, you should bring shapewear that complements these design elements. Similarly, if your wedding gown has a bodice, you should bring a bra that properly supports your bust while complementing the bodice.
Bringing your actual shoes to the first fitting is also important because the heel height will help determine whether your dress needs to be hemmed or let out, and by how much. If you don't have time to shop for the actual shoes, bring a pair with the same heel height as the shoes you intend to buy.
In addition to the right lingerie, shoes, and undergarments, you should also bring any accessories you plan to wear on your wedding day. This includes your veil, jewelry, or a belt. Even though these accessories won't directly affect the way your dress fits, they are important to preview the look of the dress on your wedding day. For example, you will be able to get a better idea of where your necklace will fall in relation to the neckline of the dress, or at what point down your back the veil and dress will start to overlap.
The first fitting is a collaborative session, so don't be afraid to speak up and convey your preferences and concerns. Look closely at the fit and how the fabric falls. If you see any puckering, bunching, or bulging, speak up and let your seamstress know.
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The second fitting is for smaller tweaks
The second fitting is when you can make smaller tweaks to your wedding dress, such as taking in the bodice or perfecting the hem length. This is also when you can ask about eliminating last-minute wrinkles and whether to use an iron or steamer. You should also check for any obvious bunching or pulling anywhere on the dress. It's important to move around in the dress during this fitting to ensure it's comfortable and you can get around easily. You'll be wearing it for 10-12 hours on your wedding day, so if something feels wrong, now is the time to speak up.
The second fitting usually takes place about six weeks to a month before the wedding. This is when you can start to personalise your dress, adding heirloom details, and refining the initial adjustments. You can also ask your seamstress about the type of bustle they recommend for your dress and pin different types to see what looks best.
It's typical for a bride to have three to four fittings to get everything just right, and most of this can be handled in the last two to three months before the wedding. The first fitting is about understanding what alterations need to be made, and the second fitting is when these adjustments are refined.
The second fitting is also a good time to bring your mum or maid of honour so they can learn how to help you get ready on your wedding day, such as securing the overskirt or pinning up the train for the reception.
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The third fitting is the final check before taking the dress home
It is recommended to bring a relative, bridesmaid, or trusted friend to your final fitting. They can help you examine how the dress fits and how it makes you feel. They can also learn how to help you get ready on your wedding day, such as securing the overskirt or pinning up the train for the reception.
It is important to remember that wedding dress alterations are a normal part of the bridal fashion journey. Even if your dress requires a number of alterations, trust that your seamstress wants your wedding dress to fit you perfectly and that they have seen it all before.
The timing of the third fitting is important. It should take place about one month to two weeks before the wedding day. This allows for any final adjustments to be made, while not leaving too much time for your measurements to change.
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You may need 3-4 fittings in total
The number of fittings you will need depends on the style and size of the original dress purchased, the extent of the desired alterations, and your budget. Most brides have three to four fittings to ensure their dress is perfect. The first fitting usually takes place about eight weeks before the wedding, giving you time to make any necessary adjustments. During this appointment, the seamstress will assess the dress from head to toe and pin the shoulders, bust, waist, hips, and hem. They will also discuss any fit preferences you may have, so be sure to speak up if there is anything you would like to change.
The second fitting typically occurs about six weeks to a month before the wedding. At this stage, your seamstress will evaluate the initial adjustments and begin refining them. They may also start creating the bustle, which can vary in style. It is important to bring along your shoes and undergarments to this fitting, as the height of your shoes and the amount of structure and padding in your undergarments will impact the fall of the dress.
The third fitting should take place about a month to two weeks before the wedding. By this appointment, the major adjustments should be complete, and you can focus on final tweaks, such as fine-tuning the neckline or raising the length of the sleeves.
If you require more extensive changes, such as adding straps, sleeves, or beading, or accommodating a pregnancy, you may need to budget extra time and money for additional fittings.
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Frequently asked questions
It's typical for a bride to have three fittings, but some brides have up to four or five fittings to get everything just right.
The first fitting usually takes place about eight weeks before the wedding day. The second fitting is typically held six weeks to a month before the wedding, and the third and final fitting should be about one month to two weeks before the wedding day.
Bring your shoes, bra, bridal shapewear, and any other undergarments you plan to wear for the wedding. You should also bring your jewellery and any accessories you plan to wear.
During the first fitting, the seamstress will look at you in your gown from every angle and make any necessary adjustments. At each fitting, you should move around in the dress and pay attention to how it fits and how the fabric falls. Speak up if you see anything that you don't like or if there is anything you would like to change.
