Guide to wedding dress alterations
Finding your dream wedding dress is an exciting milestone, but ensuring the perfect fit is just as important! Most wedding dresses require some level of alteration to achieve that flawless, made-for-you look. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about wedding dress alterations, from timing to budgeting and what to expect at your fittings.
When to book your alterations
Alterations typically take place 1-3 months before your wedding day, but securing your seamstress should happen much earlier. We recommend booking your alterations around 6 months before your wedding to ensure you have a professional lined up—especially during peak wedding season when seamstresses get booked up quickly.
Choosing your seamstress
As with most bridal shops now, we do not have an in-house seamstress, but we recommend a big list of trusted bridal seamstresses so you can choose the one that is closest to you and most convenient. A great seamstress will have experience working with delicate fabrics, intricate lace, and structured designs, so going by recommendations is the best bet.
What you need for your first fitting
Your first fitting is a crucial step in the alteration process. To make the most of it, ensure you bring:
Your actual wedding shoes – This helps determine the correct dress length.
Undergarments – Wear the same bra or shapewear you plan to wear on the big day, if any.
Your hoop or underskirt - if you are wearing one under your dress you need to bring it with you to get the correct hem adjustment.
Any accessories that need adding to your dress, such as detachable sleeves, straps or belts.
Alterations costs
The cost of alterations often varies depending on what needs to be done. Simple adjustments like hemming or lifting the straps might cost less, while more complex alterations like making custom sleeves or belts, taking in the seams, or adjusting the hem of more intricate lace or beaded dresses can be pricier.
We always recommend budgeting extra for alterations just in case. Some factors that can affect pricing include:
The complexity and amount of alterations
The number of layers and fabric types
Additional customisation requests
Please note: we don’t include alterations in the price of our dresses and this is something you arrange independently if needed so make sure you factor this into your budget and timeframe!
How to minimise your alterations
If you want to minimise or avoid alterations, consider these factors when choosing your wedding dress:
Corset back dresses – These can offer adjustability and flexibility in fit, reducing the need for alterations.
Higher heels – Wearing taller shoes can help lift the dress off the ground, eliminating the need for hemming.
Wearing a hoop – A hoop skirt can raise a longer dress, making it easier to walk in and reducing the need for length alterations.
Shopping closer to your wedding date – This ensures a better fit and reduces the likelihood of needing major alterations.
Padded cups – Adding cups to the bust can improve the fit without needing extensive alterations.
Mention your preference for less alterations to your bridal stylist who can try and choose dresses that may need less alterations such as looking for dresses with corset backs or shorter front hems & straps where possible.
Some alterations are unavoidable – Even with careful planning, minor tweaks may still be needed to ensure a perfect fit depending on the dress you choose. This is something we can advise on during your appointment to give you an idea of what may need doing.
Wedding dress alterations are often an essential step in achieving the perfect bridal look for most of our brides. Booking in advance, budgeting wisely, and working with a trusted seamstress will help your dress fit beautifully. We provide a list of trusted professionals to all of our brides that find their dress with us!