Luckily, wedding dress alterations can be easy and stress-free, as long as you know what to expect. So, how long do dress alterations take and when should you schedule an appointment?
How Long Do Dress Alterations Take?
Wedding gown alterations typically take 6 to 8 weeks total. However, that timeline can vary based on the type of dress, the alteration details, and the number of alteration appointments. Dresses that only need minor alterations can be done in much less time while complex alterations could be more involved.
If you’re unsure about the complexity of your wedding dress alterations, schedule everything a little further in advance than needed. At the start of the alterations process, you’ll have a consultation with your tailor to determine the details. During that appointment, you’ll get a more specific estimate for how long everything will take.
When to Get a Wedding Dress Altered
Tailors recommend getting alterations started about three months before your wedding date. That way, there’s plenty of time for advanced alterations and multiple fittings. Plus, it’s still close enough to the wedding date that your weight shouldn’t change too much.
Wedding Dress Alterations Timeline
For alterations, you will need to come in for several fittings. During the fitting, the tailor will see what else needs to be changed, and you can let them know what you like and dislike about the fit. Having multiple fittings helps guarantee that the dress will fit you like it was made for you.
After each fitting, the tailor will need about a week or two to work on alterations before the next fitting. Your tailor will schedule a time for you to come back.
Your final fitting should be about two weeks before the wedding date so you can ensure it will fit on your big day. If your weight rarely fluctuates, you might be able to get away with scheduling it sooner, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
How Many Alterations for Wedding Dresses are Needed?
Most brides have two to four fittings before their wedding day. This includes the initial fitting, one or two mid-way fittings, and the final fitting. Between each one, necessary alterations will be made. The number of alterations depends on the details of your dress and how well it fits you.
What if I Lose or Gain Weight?
If you schedule your final fitting two weeks before the wedding date, your weight is unlikely to change drastically. Gaining or losing a few pounds since your last fitting likely won’t make a difference. Yet, if you’re worried about last-minute weight changes, ask your tailor if they offer same day alterations just in case.
Can I Make Changes After the Final Fitting?
It depends on the tailor. Some tailors won’t have enough time to make last-minute dress alterations. However, other tailors, such as Montrose Tailors & Bridal, offer same day wedding dress alterations. If you suspect you’ll need more changes after the final fitting, make sure your tailor offers that.
How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?
The average cost of wedding dress alterations is $150 to $600. Of course, the exact number varies based on the details of the alterations. A minor fix may cost less while major customizations could cost more.
Step-By-Step Process: Wedding Gown Alterations
When you’re ready for your alterations, you’ll need to go through the following steps to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Choosing the Right Seamstress/Tailor
First, find a seamstress or tailor that can fit your needs. Ideally, the tailor should specialize in wedding gowns and have experience completing the type of alterations you need. Also, find out if the tailor does same day alterations in case you need last-minute fixes before your wedding.
Checking Availability
Once you have a tailor in mind for your alterations, find out if they have availability. You can call them to find out or you may be able to schedule a consultation right on their website. While you should start alterations about three months before the wedding, you can get your first appointment booked well in advance to ensure you can get in during your desired timeframe.
Preparing for Fittings
To prepare for wedding dress fittings, show up in comfortable clothes that you can easily change out of. Wear any undergarments that you plan to wear on your wedding day because that could affect how the dress fits. If you’ll be wearing heels on your big day, bring shoes of the same height to check the dress length.
Many brides also like to wear their hair in a similar style to their wedding day and bring accessories that they plan to wear. For example, you may want to bring along your veil and other hair accessories, along with necklaces and bracelets. That way, you can get a good idea of what you’ll look like in your gown when you get married.
It’s always a good idea to bring a friend or family member along for each fitting too. It feels good to have someone there to support you and provide a second opinion.
Where to Find a Seamstress for Bridesmaid Dresses and Wedding Dresses
There are plenty of seamstresses and tailors out there that handle wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses. Search for options near you, find one that specializes in wedding dresses, and make sure they’re available at the right time.
When asking a tailor “how long do wedding dress alterations take?,” you may get a different answer depending on the tailor’s skills and schedule. Find an experienced tailor that has good reviews who can also complete alterations in a timely manner.
If you’re looking for a qualified tailor in Houston, Texas, Montrose Tailors & Bridal is happy to help. We specialize in wedding dresses, and we’re always honored to help a bride look her best on her big day. Book an appointment today or contact us for more information.