Lyla Dejesus
Wedding dress alterations are an important part of the bridal process. Even if a dress feels great, small adjustments can make it fit like a glove. The most common alteration is hemming the length of the dress, but other adjustments include resizing the waist, hips, or bust, or shortening straps. It is recommended to start the alterations process two to three months before the wedding, to allow for multiple fittings and adjustments. The first fitting typically lasts one hour, with subsequent fittings taking less time. It is important to bring the shoes and undergarments that will be worn with the dress to the first fitting, and to be direct with the seamstress about any desired changes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of fittings | Typically 3 |
| Cost | $50 to $1,000 |
| Cost factors | Service type, design changes, professional's experience, market value, time taken, approach, overhead, added services |
| Common alterations | Hemming, taking in the dress, adding a bustle, adjusting straps, reshaping the neckline |
| Timing | Start the process 2-3 months before the wedding, or 8-10 weeks out |
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What You'll Learn
Hemming the length of the dress
Hemming the length of a wedding dress is a common step in the alterations process. Wedding gowns come in standard sizes, which include a standard length, so the majority of dresses will need to be hemmed to fit the bride's height. For brides who are shorter or of average height, the dress will likely need to be hemmed to avoid tripping on extra fabric. Even taller brides will often still need a hem based on their height and the type of shoe they plan to wear.
When ordering a wedding dress, it's recommended that you place your order eight months to one year before the wedding. You should go by the bridal designer's size chart and plan on alterations to tailor the dress to fit your body perfectly. It's important to note that some bridal designers charge an extra fee for ordering a dress with a custom hem length. Even if this is included in the cost of your dress, you may still need additional alterations. If you order a custom length based on a certain heel height, you could end up with a dress that is too short if you change your mind about your shoes.
Hemming a wedding dress is a complex process, especially if the dress has multiple layers, a train, or decorative lace at the bottom. It's recommended to use a professional seamstress or tailor for this reason. A professional will be able to ensure that the dress maintains its flow and details. They can also help you mark the hem before cutting. The average cost of hemming a wedding dress is $25-$100, but quotes can vary depending on the complexity of the alterations needed.
If you are planning to hem your own wedding dress or have a friend do it, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to use the right tools and be very careful to avoid making the hem uneven. It's also important to have the bride try on the dress with the shoes they plan to wear to ensure the correct length. You can mark the hem by pinning it and using the floor as your guide, or by using thread tacks to mark important spots without leaving permanent marks.
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Adjusting the bust, waist, hips, or straps
Alterations are an important part of the wedding dress journey, ensuring that the dress fits perfectly and meets the bride's specifications. While the number of alterations depends on the individual, some common adjustments include the bust, waist, and hips.
Bust
If there is extra space in the bust area, a seamstress can easily take in the dress to create a more secure fit. If the dress is too tight in the bust, it may not zip up all the way. This can often be fixed by adding a gusset, a piece of fabric that helps to expand the bust area, to the side seams. For brides with a C cup or larger bust, it is recommended to be cautious when lowering the backline, as the dress may need extra support. Adding boning to the sides or using mesh fabric can provide additional support.
Waist
To make the waist bigger, you can let out the darts in the dress bodice or replace the elastic in a gathered skirt with a larger size. To take in the waist for a more fitted silhouette, alterations specialists can adjust the size accordingly.
Hips
If the hips need to be let out, you can add gussets to the hip seams, although these alterations may be visible, especially in lighter-coloured dresses. Alternative methods include adding godets or refashioning the bottom of the dress into a ruffle-tiered skirt. To take in the hips for a closer fit, seamstresses can adjust the dress accordingly.
Straps
For dresses without straps, seamstresses can add them to provide additional coverage and support. Shortening or lengthening the straps can also be done to ensure the dress fits perfectly and provides the desired amount of coverage.
It is recommended to start the alteration process as soon as the dress is purchased, although this may vary depending on the seamstress's availability and the complexity of the alterations. On average, brides should expect to attend two to three fittings, with the final fitting ideally taking place one to two weeks before the wedding.
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Adding a bustle
A bustle is a feature of a wedding dress that lifts the back of the dress off the ground, allowing the bride to move around with ease after the ceremony without the fear of tripping over a long train. It is important to bustle a wedding dress after the ceremony. While manufacturers do not put bustles on wedding dresses, they can be added by a seamstress. There are many different styles of bustles, and the seamstress will know which kind of bustle will work best for the style of a specific dress.
- Traditional/American bustle: Loops or hooks are added along the waistline and when the train is fastened across multiple points, it creates the look of elegant pleats for the waist.
- Ballroom bustle: Several points are added under the dress for the train to attach to, resulting in the look of an untouched, floor-length gown.
- Royal/Victorian bustle: This style is perfect for gowns that have a statement bow or sash at the back. The fabric is folded above the gown and secured with ties hidden under the bow.
- Over bustle: This is perhaps the simplest type of bustle. It is created by attaching the midpoint of the train to a button on the upper part of the back of the skirt.
The cost of adding a bustle to a wedding dress ranges between $75 to $250 on average. It is important to enlist the help of someone like the maid of honour, a bridesmaid, or a family member to bustle the gown on the big day. This person should attend the final fitting and learn how to alter the dress from the seamstress.
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Resewing seams
The process of resewing seams on a wedding dress typically involves the following steps:
- Pinning: The fabric pieces are pinned together, usually inside out, following the seam allowance specified in the pattern. This helps to hold the fabric pieces in place before sewing.
- Sewing: Using a sewing machine or hand sewing, the fabric pieces are stitched together along the pinned seams. The type of stitch and thread used may vary depending on the fabric and the desired finish.
- Pressing: Once the seams are sewn, they are pressed flat using an iron. This helps to create a neat finish and ensure that the seams lie flat against the body.
- Fitting: After resewing the seams, a fitting is necessary to ensure the dress fits properly. The bride will try on the dress, and the seamstress will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a perfect fit.
The timing of alterations, including resewing seams, is an important consideration. It is recommended to start the alteration process as soon as the dress is available, regardless of the wedding date. This allows for any necessary adjustments to be made without rushing. However, if there are concerns about weight fluctuations, some brides may choose to start alterations closer to the wedding date, typically around eight weeks before the wedding.
The cost of resewing seams can vary depending on the bridal salon or tailor. Some salons charge per service, while others offer a flat fee that covers all alterations, ensuring the dress fits perfectly. It is advisable to discuss the cost and timeline of alterations with your seamstress or bridal shop to ensure a stress-free experience.
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Adding straps or altering the neckline
Altering the neckline of your wedding dress is a great way to make your gown unique and reflective of your personal style. It is also an opportunity to add support and comfort to your dress.
When it comes to adding straps or altering the neckline, you have various options. For spring or summer weddings, you might opt for lighter styles such as cap sleeves, short sleeves, or spaghetti straps. These options provide breathability and grace while maintaining support. Spaghetti straps, in particular, offer a timeless and delicate look. If you want a more supportive option, consider thicker straps, which can also be an excellent way to add design details such as lace or sparkles. Square necklines with wider straps are currently very trendy.
If you prefer a versatile option that flatters various body types, a scoop neckline might be perfect. This rounded, U-shaped neckline offers a classic, sophisticated, and modest look that complements different gown styles. Halter necklines are another option, with straps that wrap around the neck to highlight the shoulders and back, creating a captivating silhouette.
For a unique touch, consider adding beaded straps or lace to the neckline. You can also opt for a plunging V-neck or a bateau neckline for a timeless look. Lowering the backline is another popular trend that provides a sexy look while maintaining support.
It is recommended to start the alterations process at least two to three months before the wedding to allow for multiple fittings and adjustments. The first fitting typically lasts about an hour, with subsequent fittings taking less time. During your first fitting, be direct with your seamstress about your vision and any significant changes you want to make. Most wedding dresses are made in generic sizes, so alterations are essential to ensure your gown fits your body perfectly.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you start the process of altering your wedding dress two to three months before your wedding. This is because your body is unlikely to change drastically within that time frame. However, if your weight fluctuates often, it is better to start the alterations two months in advance.
The number of fittings you will need depends on the complexity of the dress alterations. Simple dresses typically require three to four fittings, while complicated dresses may need three to five fittings. Custom-made bridal gowns usually require five to eight fittings.
The cost of wedding dress alterations can vary depending on the complexity of the alterations and the tailor's expertise. Some salons charge per service, while others charge a flat fee that covers all alterations. Expect to spend anywhere from $50 to $1,000 on wedding dress alterations.
