Your dream dress is here! But before the big day, alterations ensure that it fits perfectly and complements your body shape. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the alteration process and make sure everything is flawless by the time you walk down the aisle.
After Dress Pickup from the Bridal Store
Once you’ve picked up your wedding dress, the real transformation begins! Follow these steps to prepare for alterations:
✅ Inspect the Dress – Check for any defects, loose threads, or damage. If you notice any issues, report them to the bridal store immediately. Look for stains, missing beads, or structural problems that need addressing before alterations begin.
✅ Try It On – Wear the dress as is to assess its comfort and fit. Is it too tight, too loose, or too long? Take note of any areas that feel off and consider how the dress moves when you walk, sit, or raise your arms.
✅ Find the Right Seamstress – Research a professional tailor who specializes in wedding dress alterations. Not all tailors have experience with bridal gowns, so choose carefully! Look for reviews, before-and-after photos, and ask about their experience with your dress style and fabric.
✅ Book Your First Fitting – Wedding dresses typically require multiple alteration sessions. Schedule your first fitting 3-4 months before your wedding to allow enough time for adjustments. This timeline accounts for complex alterations and potential delays.
✅ Gather Essential Accessories – Bring everything you’ll be wearing with your dress, including your wedding shoes, undergarments, and veil. These items can affect how the dress fits and falls on your body. Consider bringing your jewellery as well, as necklaces can impact neckline adjustments.
First Fitting (3-4 Months Before the Wedding)
This is where the transformation begins! Your seamstress will make the initial adjustments to ensure your dress hugs your body perfectly. Come prepared with an open mind and realistic expectations about what can be achieved.
✅ Discuss Alterations – Communicate any desired changes, such as tightening the waist, adjusting the neckline, or modifying the straps. If there’s anything that feels uncomfortable, now is the time to mention it. Be specific about your lifestyle needs – will you be dancing, sitting for long periods, or moving around frequently? Understanding how many fittings you’ll need can help you plan your alteration timeline more effectively.
✅ Try on the Dress – Put on your wedding dress with all your accessories so the seamstress can evaluate the fit. They will pin areas that need alterations, such as the bust, waist, hips, or hemline. This process can take 60-90 minutes, so plan accordingly.
✅ Assess the Bust & Support – If the dress lacks proper support, you may need built-in cups, boning, or additional lining. Your seamstress will recommend the best options based on the structure of the dress. Proper support is crucial for comfort and confidence throughout your wedding day.
✅ Discuss the Bustle – If your dress has a train, you’ll need a bustle to lift it for easy movement during the reception. Your seamstress will help you choose the best style based on your train length and dress design. Options include American, French, or ballroom bustles.
✅ Confirm Costs & Timeline – Alterations can take several weeks, so confirm pricing and when the next fitting will take place. Get a detailed quote in writing to avoid surprises and understand what’s included in the service.
✅ Take Notes – It’s easy to forget details, so jot down any changes that were discussed or ask your seamstress for a summary. Take photos of the pinned areas to remember what was adjusted.
Second Fitting (1-2 Months Before the Wedding)
At this stage, major alterations should be completed, and this fitting is about refining the dress for the perfect fit. Minor adjustments and fine-tuning are the focus of this appointment.
✅ Try on the Dress with Accessories – Wear your shoes, undergarments, and veil to see how the entire look comes together. Bring any shapewear or special undergarments you plan to wear on your wedding day.
✅ Test Movement & Comfort – Walk around, sit, and even dance a little! The dress should feel comfortable and stay in place. If anything feels restrictive, mention it to your seamstress. Practice getting in and out of a car if transportation is a concern.
✅ Check the Bustle – Have your bridesmaid or helper learn how to bustle the dress so they can assist you on the big day. Practice this several times to ensure they’re comfortable with the process.
✅ Note Any Final Tweaks – If minor adjustments are still needed, now is the time to get them done. Small changes in weight or posture can affect fit, so address these immediately.
✅ Schedule the Final Fitting – Your last fitting should be 2-3 weeks before the wedding to ensure everything is flawless. This timing allows for any last-minute adjustments without rushing.
Final Fitting (2-3 Weeks Before the Wedding)
This is your last chance to ensure perfection before picking up your dress! At this point, only minor tweaks should be needed.
✅ Ensure All Alterations Are Complete – The dress should now fit you like a glove. Double-check that everything looks and feels just right. Walk through all the movements you’ll make on your wedding day.
✅ Practice Bustling the Dress – Bring a bridesmaid or helper and have them practice bustling your dress so it can be done quickly on the wedding day. Time this process – it should take no more than 2-3 minutes.
✅ Perform a Final Comfort Check – Walk, sit, and move around in the dress to make sure nothing feels tight or restrictive. Test sitting in chairs, going up stairs, and hugging people.
✅ Confirm the Pick-Up Date – If the dress isn’t ready for immediate pickup, make sure you know when to get it. Plan to pick up your dress 3-5 days before the wedding to avoid last-minute stress.
Wedding Week Preparations
You’re almost there! A few final steps will ensure your dress is perfect for your big day.
✅ Store the Dress Properly – Keep your gown in a breathable garment bag in a safe place to avoid wrinkles or damage. Hang it properly to maintain its shape and avoid folding delicate fabrics.
✅ Plan for Steaming or Pressing – If necessary, arrange for last-minute steaming to remove any creases before the ceremony. Many venues offer steaming services, or you can hire a professional to come to your getting-ready location.
✅ Prepare an Emergency Kit – Pack a small kit with a needle, thread, fashion tape, safety pins, and stain removal pens in case of any last-minute fixes. Include clear nail polish for stopping runs in delicate fabrics.
✅ Assign a Dress Helper – Designate a bridesmaid or family member to help with bustling and any dress adjustments on the wedding day. Make sure they know how to handle your specific dress and train.
Download Our Wedding Dress Alterations Checklist!
Stay organized and stress-free by downloading our complete wedding dress alterations checklist. Keep it handy for your fittings and ensure every detail is covered before your big day!
