After You Buy The Dress: Wedding Gown Alterations And Fittings

Your wedding dress search may have taken months, and when you have one in your hands, you may be pleased. However, there is still gown-related work that must happen so that you and your garment can look and feel good on your wedding day. Think about these dress-related issues before your event.

Realize You Likely Need Alterations

You might have taken a long time seeking out the perfect gown specifically because you didn't plan for alterations. Understand that most brides will need this kind of gown work completed, not because of their personal weight issues, but because most dresses are mass-produced. Even if it fits rather well, chances are that you'll need some hemming or a bustle so that you can walk, dance, and stand in the dress for hours. Even if you feel good about fit right now, consulting a tailor about wedding dress alterations could be smart. They will describe what they may do to make the dress an even better fit for you.

Understand Price Range

You might only want a few things done to the dress, but it's important that you set aside the proper amount for good work to be done. Alterations can cost a few hundred dollars, so be prepared to spend something in that neighborhood. Consulting a few shops will provide a range of possible prices, but realize that you likely won't get a solid estimate until you and the dress meet with tailors and they understand what you'd like done. This is in part because different materials are easier or harder to alter and work with.

Schedule Multiple Fittings

A single fitting is generally not adequate when doing wedding gown alterations.  A primary fitting is done to discuss all the areas that need fixing, but a follow-up is essential so that the tailor can see how those changes work with you in the dress. A third and final fitting a few weeks away from the wedding works best to address minor details, such as wrinkles that need to be steamed. If you've had a bustle done, you may want to bring someone who will learn how to operate the straps or buttons so that it can be done without trouble on your wedding day.

Bring Shoes and Undergarments

When preparing for your fittings, bring heels and any corsets or undergarments you're planning for the wedding day. These items will give the tailor a better idea of how far off the ground your gown should be and how much of the dress needs to be pulled in or let out.

Your wedding dress can look even more radiant when you have good alterations done. Meet with local tailors and better understand the process before making a decision about which shop to use.