Tips on Wedding Gown Alterations
Most wedding dresses will need to be altered to make sure the fit is perfectly customized to you. The following are FAQs regarding wedding gown alterations as well as a list of recommended alterations shops.
The gown I like is too big/too small, how much can it be altered to fit?
It depends on the number of seams, the location of the seams, and the seam allowance. The more straight seams you have, the more the fabric can be taken in or let out. If you wish to make the dress bigger, check the seam allowance (usually 1" per seam on dresses that haven't been altered. Please note that some fabrics (satin and taffeta) will show the stitch marks if let out. If a gowns is more than a few inches small and has a rear zipper, then a corset back may be able to be created. Consult with us prior to purchasing a gown that may be too small.
What usually needs to be altered?
The most common alterations are shortening the hemline, taking in the bodice, shortening the straps/sleeves, and creatiing a bustle for the train.
How do I find someone to alter my wedding gown?
Seek someone who specializes in altering high-end wedding dresses. Ask for referrals from newly married friends and look on review sites such as Yelp. Call the recommended alterations shops and ask about their experience. Particularly, ask them how many wedding dresses they alter per month. See below for our recommend seamstresses.
How much does it cost?
Cost for alterations varies widely depending on what you’d like to have done and the going rates in your area. If you need to have the hem shortened, have the bodice taken in or let out a couple of inches, and have a bustle added, plan to spend between $300 and $500. Get an estimate of the total cost prior to having your gown altered.
How much time does it take to have a wedding dress altered?
Plan on 2-6 weeks depending on the work that needs to be done and how busy your seamstress is. You typically need to have 3 fittings. The first and second fittings determine what needs to be done and how the alterations that have been made look on you. The final fitting should take place 1-2 weeks before your wedding and should include any final tweaks that need to be made.
What will I need for my fitting?
To each fitting you will need to bring your shoes and any undergarments you plan to wear. You also need to be a stable weight by the first fitting - no hard core dieting or weight training after alterations have been initiatied.
RECOMMEDED ALTERATIONS SHOPS:
SAN FRANCISCO:
Pink Blossom - Nancy
1546 Grant Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133
415.362.2401
Fichu - Mila
2417 Chestnut St
(between Divisadero St & Broderick St)
San Francisco, CA 94123
415.264.2790
LOS ANGELES:
Coco's Alterations
815 Torrance Blvd
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
310.316.0837
Lynda Valenti
North Hills, 818.360.9943
Nilah & Co.
1104 Ormond Avenue
Drexel Hill, PA 19026
Phone: 610.853.9822
Sew Elegant
108 W 39th St
Ste 903
(between Avenue Of The Americas & Broadway)
New York, NY 10018
212.764.1701
