Letting out the side seams of your wedding dress is possible, but it depends on several factors. From my experience in bridal alterations, the most important aspect is whether the dress has enough seam allowance to allow for adjustments. Some wedding gowns have extra fabric built into the seams, while others do not. The type of fabric, construction, and embellishments also play a role in determining how much can be let out. Below, I’ll break down the key things you need to know about letting out the side seams of your wedding dress.
Methods for Letting Out the Side Seams of a Wedding Dress
Checking Seam Allowance
Many wedding dresses are made with extra fabric in the seams, but not all are. A bridal tailor will check the side seams to see how much extra fabric is available. If there’s at least half an inch on each side, the dress can often be let out by about one dress size.
Using Additional Fabric
If there isn’t enough seam allowance, another option is to add matching fabric or lace inserts. This method is commonly used for dresses with minimal seam allowance or intricate lacework. A skilled tailor will find the best match for your dress to ensure a seamless look.
Expanding with a Gusset
A gusset is a fabric panel inserted into the side seams to create additional room. This technique works well for structured dresses or those with no extra seam allowance available. The added fabric can be carefully placed to blend with the existing design.
Factors to Consider Before Letting Out Side Seams
Fabric Type
Certain fabrics, like satin or crepe, may have extra seam allowance, making them easier to let out. Dresses made of lace, tulle, or highly structured materials might require additional work to maintain their original look.
Beading and Embellishments
Beaded or lace-adorned dresses require extra care when letting out seams. If embellishments are sewn over the seams, they may need to be removed and reapplied, adding to the complexity of the alteration.
Structure of the Dress
Some wedding dresses have boning, corsetry, or intricate lining, which can make alterations more challenging. In these cases, tailoring may involve modifying the internal structure to accommodate the changes.
How Much Can Be Let Out?
Most dresses can be let out by one size, provided there is enough fabric in the seams. If more room is needed, alternative methods like gussets or fabric inserts may be required. A tailor will assess the best approach based on your dress’s construction.
Time and Cost of Alterations
Letting out a dress can be more labour-intensive than taking it in, especially if fabric inserts are needed. Timelines and costs will vary depending on the garment’s complexity, so it’s best to consult a bridal tailor as early as possible.
Perfecting Your Wedding Gown with NLefashion
If your wedding dress feels too snug, letting out the side seams might be an option depending on the construction and available fabric. At NLefashion bridal dress alteration shop, we specialize in making precise adjustments to help brides achieve the perfect fit. Many wedding dresses have extra fabric in the seam allowances, allowing for slight expansion. However, some gowns have limited extra material, which means alternative solutions may be required.
Our experienced bridal tailors can carefully assess your dress and determine the best way to create more room without compromising the design. Whether it’s releasing the existing seams, adding discreet panels, or restructuring certain areas, our goal is to make your dress feel comfortable while maintaining its beautiful silhouette. We’ve handled wedding gowns with all types of construction, from delicate lace to heavily embellished fabrics, and we know how to adjust each one with care.
Book your free wedding alterations consultation and let our experienced bridal tailors evaluate the side seams of your dress to see how much room can be safely added while keeping the original structure intact. We’ll guide you through the options and recommend the best way to achieve a perfect fit.
