31/05/2026
You've just had your first bridal fitting. You were excited, a bit nervous. You've had a lovely time with your seamstress, you can see the vision for your dress coming to life, but.........
your alterations bill is a bit higher than you expected. This is likely because the work you're having done is outside of "standard" bridal alterations. Here are some reasons why to help you factor this into your budget when shopping for your wedding dress.
1. If your dress is several sizes too big or too small this is more than just nipping it in or letting it out slightly. Too big can mean several seams need taking in, not just the side seams. Fhe underarms or neckline may also need reshaping. And too small can involve additional panels being added or sometimes changing a zip back to a corset back. With resizing alterations it is also likely that you will need more fittings than standard bridal tailoring, also adding to the cost of your alterations.
2. If you're deciding to have your train shortened or even removed, this is double to work so double the cost. On wedding dresses the front of the hem is shortened tapering just before or after the side seams.
3. Having a heavily beaded or lace dress means there is alot of unpicking to do (by hand) before your seamstress can even start the alterations. Then once they are completed this all needs to be sewn back on, again by hand.
4. You've got a bargain of a sample dress but it's not in the best condition so as well as your alterations it is needing some repairs too.
5. You are wanting to make bespoke changes to your dress. You've found your dress but it not quite ticking every box. You want to tweak the neckline, add straps or sleeves or even have more embellishment. This is something your bridal seamstress or tailor can create for you but it comes at a cost. This is bespoke work that involves lots of sewing time as well as design, pattern cutting, fabric sourcing and the cost of additional fabrics.
Photo djmphotography.co.uk
