Category: In-House Alterations

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Customizations & Alterations Dress Shopping In-House Alterations

6 tips for wedding dress fittings and alterations

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN GETTING YOUR WEDDING DRESS READY FOR THE BIG DAY

In a perfect world, finding your wedding dress would mean a perfect fit right off the hanger. But more often than not, the dress of your dreams needs a few dress fittings and alterations to perfectly suit your body and style.

That’s where fitting comes in! Once you’ve found your dream wedding dress, you will need to have it fitted. Fittings are the perfect opportunity to add special details and personalize your dress.

Whether you prefer long sleeved wedding dresses or sleeveless gowns, there’s something perfect for your size and style to ensure you can shine on your wedding day. Seamstress work and tailoring can make your dress look and feel even better.

If you’re not sure where to start with fittings and alterations, don’t worry – we’re here to help! We’ve covered everything from first fittings to who to bring, and we’ve included some tips for sizing and alterations.

First things first:

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR FIRST DRESS FITTING

Your first fitting should take about an hour. When you try on the dress, your seamstress will pin it properly to give you a sense of how alterations will look. This will also give you a sense of how your dress will fit once it’s fully fitted. If your dress has a train, this is also an opportunity to look at bustle options.

After the first fitting, each fitting onward should take less time since the alterations will be closer to completion. This initial fitting is usually the longest, and future fittings will generally take much less time.

WHEN TO SCHEDULE DRESS FITTINGS

The sooner you schedule, the better. The further out you schedule, the more time you’ll have to ensure your dress is perfect for your wedding day. Try to schedule your first fitting when you buy your dress, or at least 8 to 10 weeks before your wedding.

Brides typically have three or four fittings, depending on the number of alterations. With each fitting, your dress will become more sculpted to your body. And after the second fitting, you should have a better idea of how the dress will fit.

Your seamstress will help you set a fitting schedule based on the date of your wedding. At the very minimum, expect your final pickup fitting to be scheduled a month after your first fitting.

Ideally, you’d have two to three months between the first and final fittings. Keep in mind that if you ask for a greater number of alterations (or if the alterations are more time-consuming), it’s going to take more time. Remember, your seamstress is the expert – when in doubt trust in their skills and instincts!

WHAT TO BRING

Since you want your dress to fit perfectly on your wedding day, bring everything you plan to wear on your big day to your fittings. This includes undergarments (bra, slip, shapewear), bridal shoes, a veil, hair accessories, and jewellery. With everything on, you will have a better idea of how each piece fits together for your final look.

Undergarments affect how a dress fits, and shoes will change how the dress’ length looks. If you don’t have your wedding shoes yet, bring a pair with similar heels so your dress won’t look too short or too long.

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WHO TO BRING

Remember, fittings aren’t the White Dress Experience. By the time you’re getting fitted for your dress, you’ve already made your choice. That said, it’s worth bringing a few people to your fittings, especially if they’re part of the wedding party. Consider your maid of honour and perhaps another close friend.

You want people who know your style and what you’re looking for, but who aren’t afraid to be honest and tell you if it’s not quite perfect. Plus, if you plan to make your train a bustle, your maid of honour should be present at the final fitting so she can learn how to bustle your gown.

SIZING

The rule of thumb for choosing a dress size is to opt for comfort. In short, pick the larger size! It’s far easier to take in a dress during fittings than it is to make the dress bigger. Nevertheless, it is possible to bring a dress up in sizes, in some cases. Don’t worry if your size changes throughout the fittings. That’s what fittings are for!

STYLE & ALTERATIONS

The style of your wedding dress should suit your individual preferences. And if you can make it suit the style of your wedding location, theme, and décor as well, that’s even better.

Your seamstress will help you decide which alterations will work best without compromising the style of your dress. Along with the length and fit, you can choose alterations to make your dress more like you, such as:

  • Necklines – For example, if you want to change the neckline from straight to sweetheart.
  • Sleeves – You can add sleeves to a strapless wedding dress to create a cap-, short-, or long-sleeved wedding dress.
  • Corset Backs – You can switch out a zipper back with one that laces up. This might give you more room to breathe as well.
  • Bustles – If your dress has a train, you can opt to lift up your train after the ceremony. This bustle will change your look for the reception, giving you more mobility to dance.

Most bridal shops have experienced seamstresses who will work with you and your dress leading up to the big day. So if you have any concerns, or want alteration advice, your seamstress will be there for you, making sure your dress fits perfectly, and just how you imagined for your wedding day.

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Customizations & Alterations In-House Alterations

The different ways you can customize with wedding dress alterations

TIPS FOR CUSTOMIZING YOUR GOWN INTO THE DRESS OF YOUR DREAMS

If you’ve tried on countless wedding dresses and have struggled to find a gown that ticks every box, then it’s possible what you picture for your gown is something that you need to create with the help of the right bridal shop and dress alterations team.

With the right alterations expert, you can transform almost any bridal gown into that dream dress you have in your head.

Whether it’s adding sleeves or changing a neckline, we’ll explain the importance of alterations and all the different ways you can dramatically alter your gown to best fit your vision.

THE IMPORTANCE OF ALTERATIONS ON A BRIDAL GOWN

Even if you aren’t customizing the design of a gown, dress alterations are crucial to ensure that your dress fits your body and unique shape perfectly.

Your bridal stylist will take your measurements to ensure you are ordering your gown in the correct size. However, your dress will, most often, need to be properly tailored to be a perfect fit. Especially if you experience any weight fluctuation after ordering your gown.

Dress alterations can cost anywhere between $50 to $1,000, depending on what needs to be done. So make sure to factor this into your dress and accessory budget.

DRESS ALTERATIONS TIMELINE – WHEN TO START THE PROCESS

Because designer wedding gowns can take up to 8 months to arrive after being ordered, it’s important to start dress shopping early. To ensure you have enough time for alterations when your gown comes in.

Try to schedule your first alterations appointment at least eight to 12 weeks before the wedding, and a final fitting no later than two weeks before.

WAYS TO TRANSFORM YOUR GOWN WITH ALTERATIONS

Besides the typical dress alterations like changing the hem and taking things in, there are more dramatic alterations you can do to completely change the look and feel of your dress.

Here are some ideas to bring up with your seamstress.

ADDING SLEEVES

If you’re struggling to find a more modest gown that fits your vision, ask your bridal stylist about the possibility of adding sleeves to a strapless or sleeveless gown.

Sleeves can be custom-made to match your gown perfectly and give you the look you’re going for.

A removable bolero is also an option if you want to be more covered for the ceremony but not the reception.

STRAPS

Fell in love with a strapless gown but looking for a bit more support? Adding straps are a great option, whether you simply prefer the look of straps, or you need a bit of extra support in the bust.

CHANGING A NECKLINE

Plunging necklines are super in trend right now, but if you’d rather be a bit more covered, there are plenty of options for you.

From closing a deep neckline to altering a strapless gown into a sweetheart neckline, most neckline alterations can be done. Be sure to discuss with your bridal stylist whether your vision is feasible with certain gowns.

CORSET BACK

A corset back not only gives your dress a sexier feel but is also a great option if your dress is a bit too small leading up to your wedding day.

Because, while a dress can be easily taken in, making it larger can be a bit of a challenge. Depending on the style of your dress, a corset lace-up back may be the perfect solution.

CREATE A LOW BACK

Love a dramatic low back? Depending on the style of your gown, this can be achievable. While often tricky with strapless gowns, many dresses with straps or sleeves can be altered to be given an open back. Be sure to ask your bridal stylist whether the design of your gown will accommodate this.

CREATING AN OVERSKIRT

On the fence about whether to go with a sleek and sexy fit and flare or a dramatic ball gown? Why not choose both? An overskirt is an incredibly popular option for brides looking for the best of both worlds.

An overskirt is a dramatic ballgown-like skirt that’s open at the front and is worn over a more fitted wedding dress.

Celebrities like Sophia Vergara, Ashley Tisdale, and more have looked stunning on their wedding day with an overskirt wedding dress, so be sure to check them out to get a feel for how it may look.

CUSTOM CAPE

Another huge celebrity red carpet and bridal trend is dramatic capes. From Gweneth Paltrow at the Oscars to Kaley Cuocco on her wedding day, capes add a bit of edge and fashion-forward flare to any gown.

Whether it’s stunning beaded lace or simple and ethereal tulle, a cape will ensure you truly stand out on your big day and will have your future spouse and guests swooning as you walk down the aisle.

DETACHABLE OFF THE SHOULDER SLEEVES

Romantic, drapey, off-the-shoulder sleeves are a huge trend right now. And if you don’t want to be committed to them all night? Just ask your seamstress if they can create a detachable option if you love the look of this type of sleeve!

OTHER DRESS ALTERATIONS TO CONSIDER

Besides more extensive customizations, it’s important not to forget some of the smaller alterations that can make a huge difference, such as:

  • Adding structure and boning
  • Hemming
  • A bustle
  • Adding extra beading
  • Taking in around the bust
  • Shortening or lengthening the straps
  • Adding extra layers of crinoline
  • Adding more structure
  • Creating a statement bow

When shopping for wedding dresses, it’s important to remember that you may never find a gown off the rack that is perfect in every way. No matter how much you love your dress when you first try it on, most dresses require some alterations. To ensure you are getting the perfect look and feel on your wedding day. So, if you love certain elements of one dress but it doesn’t tick every box, ask your stylist and seamstress* what can be done to make it look exactly how you envisioned.

Read More: Wedding Dress Alterations Advice

* Did you know Sinders Bridal House has our own experienced in-house seamstress? Check out Rose’s Custom Sewing to make your quick, professional and high-quality alterations!

Categories
Customizations & Alterations In-House Alterations

Wedding dress fitting: the final details

WHAT TO EXPECT AND PLAN FOR DURING YOUR FINAL FITTING – AND WHAT COMES NEXT!

By this point, you’ve likely already made a few trips to your local bridal boutique for careful fittings, alterations, and more dress fittings.

Now, though, the end is in sight, and the big day is fast approaching!

As your big day nears, it’s time to get ready for your final fitting, the last round of measurements and modifications before you wear your dress on your wedding day.

The final wedding dress fitting is likely not too far from your wedding date to better ensure a perfect fit for when you walk down the aisle.

And, in all likelihood, you’ve probably got a million other things on your mind. The last thing you want to worry about is yet another fitting!

All the same, taking the time to visit your bridal boutique in Ottawa and seamstress will help you to relax and guarantee that perfect fit.

Not sure what to expect? Don’t worry. Read on to find out more about your final wedding dress fitting, what to look for in the fit of your dress, and what comes next!

WHAT DOES A GOOD FIT FEEL LIKE?

At your final fitting, think Goldilocks: your dress should fit just right.

It shouldn’t be too tight, but neither should it be too loose. Take some time to move around, practice walking down the aisle, and consider a few (gentle) dance moves!

Think of everything you’ll be doing in the dress, and how much time you’ll be in it. You don’t want to feel restricted.

Strapless gowns should still let you bend over, hug, sit, jump, and dance without fear of slipping.

Keep an eye out for:

  • Material that pulls
  • Wrinkling
  • Bunching

Even though your expert seamstress has likely made a few key alterations by this point, this is your opportunity to find any and all issues and address them, no matter how small.

WHAT’S THE RIGHT LENGTH?

Bring your wedding shoes with you to your final wedding dress fitting and check the length of your gown with them on.

If your dress is still a bit long in your wedding shoes, don’t worry – that can be addressed. Consider bringing a pair of flats with you, too; you might want to swap heels for something more comfortable as the reception moves into the evening.

For long dresses, the bottom of the skirt should just skim the top of the front of your shoes.

Walk around to see how this feels. You don’t want your heel to get caught in the hem.

Ideally, you won’t be kicking the front or back of the dress as you walk, unless you have a long dress or train. In this case, you might opt to have a bustle added for the wedding reception.

WHAT’S THE RIGHT NUMBER OF FITTINGS?

Ideally, and time permitting, you will have three wedding dress fittings. These fittings should be scheduled at the moment you buy your dress from wedding dress stores in Ottawa.

Remember to bring the wedding accessories you plan to wear on your big day, including any undergarments or unique items you’d like to feature.

These are especially important for your final fitting to ensure everything works in concert perfectly.

As to when you should schedule your wedding dress fitting…

THE FIRST FITTING – 3 MONTHS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING

Your dress likely won’t fit well when you first try it on. This is when your seamstress will take note of the alterations needed.

THE SECOND FITTING – 1 MONTH BEFORE YOUR WEDDING

During the second fitting, you will see how the alterations fit, and if any other changes are needed before the final fitting.

Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask for more alterations if you don’t feel 100% comfortable with your dress.

THE FINAL FITTING – TWO WEEKS BEFORE YOUR WEDDING

This is when you get to see the final product!

While you probably won’t need more alterations at this point, this is your last chance to request them.

If your final fitting goes well, then you get to take your dress home that day!

BUDGETING FOR ALTERATIONS

For your wedding dress to fit well and look perfect on your big day, you will likely need to make some alterations. These could be as simple as adjusting the hem length and taking in the dress, or as complex as adding a bustle and altering the neckline.

Whatever alterations you need, make sure to account for them in your total budget.

The easiest way to account for alterations in your budget is by using an in-house seamstress at your bridal boutique.

Keeping your dress alterations in-house ensures a seamless experience (pardon the pun) from the day you find your wedding dress to the day you take it home, while sticking to your timeline.

THE RIGHT PEOPLE AND ATTITUDE

We’ve discussed this before, but it bears repeating: bring one or two close people to your final fitting.

This isn’t a shopping experience, after all.

Bring your maid of honour and/or your mother. They’ll gladly offer advice, support, and help you dress and style everything perfectly.

Bring your mom and/or maid of honour for advice, support, and to learn how to help you put on and bustle your dress. An extra set of hands can help with complicated buttons, tricky bustles, and other fasteners.

Alternatively, you can hire a dressing service on the day of your wedding to get your seamstress to help you into the dress to ensure everything’s perfect.

Remember to ask your seamstress questions about the appropriate care instructions for your dress. Better still, some bridal boutiques in Ottawa offer complimentary storage and steaming of your dress to ensure it looks perfect for your big day.

The days and weeks leading up to your wedding can be stressful. Don’t let your final fitting add to it! Working with an expert bridal boutique in Ottawa can help you make the most of your precious time, put your mind at ease, and help you get the perfect for your perfect day.