Naturally, you want to make sure your wedding dress is fitting perfectly on the big day. To achieve this, most brides will require some alterations and customisations to make sure the dress fits like a glove. Here is everything you need to know about altering your wedding dress.
Altering Your Wedding Dress...
The process of creating your dream wedding dress takes place over several months and involves many stages. Altering your wedding dress requires final adjusts to the gown in the lead up to the wedding. Majority of brides will require standard alterations which include adjusting the hemline, creating a bustle to hold the train up at the reception, and slight tailoring to the waist or bust.
Who To Go To....
When choosing your dressmaker for alterations, it's crucial to pick the right person. Majority of bridal boutiques and designers will either have someone in store to help, or have a recommendation for you. If this is not the case, be sure to do your research and speak to brides who have worked with this dressmaker before.
When To Begin The Process...
Regardless of when you purchase your gown, your alterations should begin 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding. If you are aware that your gown will need more extensive design changes or alterations, be sure to allow time for this. In this case, allow 8 weeks if possible. This should be booked in at least 3 months in advance as dressmakers schedules fill up quickly. When making the booking, discuss what you are after and what your time frame is. The dressmaker will most likely be able to give you a guide on how long they may need for the alterations based on your description.
Via Artful Tailoring
Cost Of The Alterations...
With wedding dresses being a larger expense of the wedding, it can be difficult to think of having to spend money on alterations on top of that. Generally, the price of alterations is not included in the cost of the gown. Be sure to take these additional costs into account when assessing your bridal budget. Bridal boutiques will often be able to give you an estimate of how much the alterations for a particular gown may be. Keep in mind that dressmakers tend to charge by the hour. This means that the more work you want done, the more it will cost. The average cost generally sits between $300 to $800.
What To Take With You...
These are the final steps of the dress process, so majority of your accessories should be selected. When taking your gown to get altered, you will need to bring along your wedding shoes and the undergarments you plan on wearing on the day. This is to ensure that the height of the shoe and the structure of the undergarments is taken into account.
Via David's Bridal
Who To Take With You...
Chances are you have already taken your bridal squad to choose your wedding gown, so consider leaving them at home for this stage. Dressmakers generally prefer to work with just the bride and one guest. This means they can have an in-depth conversation about the alterations without an overwhelming crowd. Be sure that whoever you take along knows what your bridal vision is and will be honest and understanding.
Your Expectations Of The Alterations...
Dressmakers have an incredible talent and can often alter your gown in ways you didn't think were possible! Don't be afraid to ask questions, but remember that they can't change the whole gown. Trust what they say and follow their guidance. They want to ensure you are looking perfect on the day too.
Be Comfortable...
It's one of the most forgotten things when choosing a wedding gown, but feeling comfortable in your gown is so important. After all, you will be wearing this gown for a fairly long period of time. When getting those final alterations, make sure you feel comfortable and at ease. Try sitting, walking and dancing where necessary so you can test your movement as well.
Via David's Bridal
Need some guidance when it comes to finding the perfect gown? We can tell you when you should buy your dress AND how to choose the perfect style for you.
