If you’re purchasing a dress that has to be ordered, it’s best to buy it a year in advance to allow time for the alterations process. This is especially true for brides with a more dramatic wedding dress silhouette.
The first fitting typically lasts about an hour, as the seamstress begins to plan alterations for the gown.
To ensure your wedding dress fits perfectly, schedule your first fitting 2-3 months before the wedding. Visit https://www.winsomebrides.com to book your alterations appointment and get expert assistance.
1. Bring the Right Undergarments
It’s important to bring the right undergarments to your wedding dress alterations. This will give you a better idea of how the gown will feel on your wedding day, and make sure everything fits together properly.
Many brides-to-be may not realize it, but your undergarments can dramatically change the look of a gown. For instance, a strapless bra can cause a visible line underneath a form-fitting silhouette. And, if your gown has cut-outs or illusion netting around the bust, it may not support a traditional bra.
Also, a pair of no-show panties is essential to avoid showing off any fabric or seams. It’s important to be vocal if you notice an issue, whether it be a zipper poking you or not enough support in the bust. This will help prevent you from having to book more fittings and ensure you stay on schedule with your alterations.
2. Schedule Your First Fitting Early
For the second fitting, about a month before your wedding, bring the shoes and undergarments you’ll be wearing on your big day. This will help your seamstress determine if the initial adjustments were done correctly. For example, a fit and flare dress can look different when worn with high heels versus flats. The height of your shoes will also impact the hemline of your dress.
Your final pickup fitting is usually scheduled two weeks before your wedding date. This is when you’ll be closer to your wedding-day weight and body size, making this the most accurate fitting. You’ll also want to discuss how you’ll bustle your dress for movement and dancing on the dance floor. Lastly, you’ll need to bring any bridal accessories, including veils and hairpieces.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Your second fitting should be much closer to the vision of your dream dress. Be sure to bring your shoes and the correct undergarments (Spanx and a strapless bra, please). An inch or two of difference in heel height can dramatically affect how the hemline falls on your feet, so don’t be afraid to speak up and let them know if you want your hemline to gently graze the floor.
Many bridal salons will have their own seamstresses on staff, but even if yours is not, they can be helpful in suggesting a trusted tailor or alteration specialist to work with. This is especially important if you have special details in mind, like having a piece of lace or fabric from your dad’s shirt sewn into your gown to honor him.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up
Whether you are second-guessing your dress choice or are worried that a family member’s handkerchief sewn into the gown will be too small, don’t be afraid to speak up. Your seamstress will appreciate knowing if something is wrong and can usually take care of it without adding more appointments to your dress timeline.
Speaking up isn’t always easy. You may fear upsetting a friend, bringing tension into a comfortable setting or being seen as a troublemaker. But if you have your goals and intentions in mind, it is usually the best option.
Try to limit the number of people you bring with you to this appointment, as too many opinions can lead to confusion. Especially if your wedding dress has a lot of intricate components that will need to be worked on, like the bustling.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Whether you’ve shopped for a wedding dress off the rack or had it made custom, the process of alterations is an important one. It’s often best to buy the gown at least a few months out from your wedding, to ensure that you’re able to receive and complete alterations before your big day.
Keep in mind that any major alterations like adding lace or embroidery will require more time to complete, whereas simple hemming and taking in the bodice can be done in just one fitting. Also be sure to tell the seamstress if you have any changes coming up in your body dimensions (like expecting a baby or having breast reduction surgery), to ensure that your gown is made properly.
Finally, bring a few trusted friends with you to your wedding dress alterations appointments to get their honest opinions and help you feel confident. Too many people can distract you, however, so only bring a few who truly know you.