The Do’s and Don’ts of Wedding Dress Alterations
So, you’ve found the one! (The dress, that is. 😉) But before you walk down the aisle looking like a total vision, there’s one final step—alterations!
Wedding dress alterations ensure that your gown fits like a dream, but there are some key do’s and don’ts to keep in mind. Ready? Let’s dive in!
✅ DO: Start Alterations Early ⏳
Wedding dress alterations take time—typically 2-3 months before the big day. Don’t wait until the last minute, or you’ll be rushing (and stressed!).
🎯 Pro Tip: Book your first fitting at least 3 months before your wedding, with your final fitting 2-4 weeks before the big day.
❌ DON’T: Expect a Dress to Change Completely
Alterations can work magic, but they have limits! You can tweak the fit, hem, and small details, but major changes (like turning a ballgown into a mermaid dress) aren’t always realistic.
🎯 Pro Tip: Love the dress as is before buying—don’t depend on alterations to transform it!
✅ DO: Bring Your Wedding Shoes & Undergarments 👠
Your dress needs to fit perfectly with your actual wedding shoes and undergarments. Changing heel height later can mess up the hemline, and the right bra can totally change the fit.
🎯 Pro Tip: Bring everything you plan to wear on your wedding day to every fitting.
❌ DON’T: Bring a Huge Entourage 👯♀️
Too many opinions = too much confusion. Bring one or two trusted people to fittings—people who will give helpful feedback, not make you second-guess everything.
🎯 Pro Tip: Trust your gut—this is your dress!
✅ DO: Move Around in Your Dress 💃
You’re going to walk, dance, sit, and hug on your wedding day, so test your gown in motion!
🎯 Try This:
✔ Walk around the fitting room
✔ Sit down and stand up
✔ Raise your arms (for those dance moves!)
❌ DON’T: Forget About Bustle Options
If your gown has a long train, you’ll need a bustle so you can move freely after the ceremony. There are different bustle styles, so ask your seamstress what works best!
🎯 Pro Tip: Have a bridesmaid or friend learn how to bustle it before the wedding.
✅ DO: Be Honest About the Fit
Too tight? Too loose? Say something! Your seamstress wants your dress to fit perfectly. If anything feels off, speak up—no one wants a dress they can’t breathe in!
🎯 Pro Tip: Aim for a fit that’s snug but comfortable—you should be able to move and eat!
❌ DON’T: Panic If It’s Not Perfect at the First Fitting
The first fitting is just the beginning—alterations happen in stages! Your dress won’t fit perfectly right away, but it will by the time your final fitting rolls around.
🎯 Pro Tip: Trust the process—your dream fit is coming!
✅ DO: Budget for Alterations 💰
Alterations aren’t always included in the dress price, so set aside around $200-$700+, depending on the changes needed.
🎯 Pro Tip: Ask your bridal salon for an estimated cost when buying your dress!
Final Thought: Love Your Fit, Love Your Dress! 💕
Wedding dress alterations are all about making your dream gown fit like it was made just for you! With the right prep, a good seamstress, and a little patience, your dress will be absolute perfection.
So, are you ready to rock your dream dress? Tell us—what alterations do you think you’ll need? 👇💍