Alterations

It’s hard to put a specific number. Every dress is made differently, from the number of layers to the materials and every bride needs different areas adjusted based on their body and the style of the dress. $400-$600 might be a good number to budget for. If you are wanting to do any major changes or additions * cutting the back lower, making the pluge lower, or adding sleeves * these will increase the alterations cost.

Keep in mind that lace, tulle cut outs, sleeves, and layers all directly affect the pricing. I am always willing to give a general quote based off front, back, and side photos!

Typically the lace at your hem is a “trim applique”. This trim will be removed stitch by stitch, the new hemline is made, and the trim is then pinned and re-stitched.

There are also dressed that are tulle and have appliques scattered along the hem. Depending on how these are placed, sometimes they can be trimmed off and cleaned up, and sometimes they need to be removed and re applied.

This is a more extensive process, but can be done! I have a book of color swatches that you can choose from. Same with adding a glitter tulle layer!

Average turnaround time between appointments is 4-6 weeks, depending on the season.

My goal is that we schedule your initial appointment in which we pin, finalize quote, and your 50% deposit is made to start the alterations. At this time your next fitting is scheduled (4-6 weeks later). I aim to have everything perfect at this appointment in which you are able to take your dress home! There is the slightest chance that something small is off and we need to schedule you in one last time to make sure everything is perfect: hence the 8 weeks needed.

I suggest starting the process 2-5months in advance. If you are consistent with your weight, do not foresee any changes, and want it crossed off your list, we can start as soon as you’d like. If you foresee any changes in weight, I suggest starting closer to that 8-12week timeframe. Anything under 8 weeks requires a rush fee, and I can’t always guarantee I have availability to get you in. If you have your dress or its on order, reach out and get on the calendar to reserve your spot!

Drop sleeves can be added in permanent or removable form pretty easily! Having them in hand saves you money versus having me make them.

Full long sleeves can also be added, but is typically a more extensive process. Depending on your neckline, tulle support may need to be added to help the sleeves stay on your shoulders. Inspiration photos are always helpful to get your ideas across and for me to explain what is needed to make it all happen!

Typically, Yes! I can always confirm with an “as is” photo and an inspiration photo.

Some dresses have 2 inches of seam allowance to utilize, but some only have ½”. If more than the seam allowance is needed, there is usually always a way to insert a fabric panel and make the dress look as seamless as possible!

A zipper can typically always be changed into a corset! The zipper needs to be at least 12” as is to make the corset look correct and be functionable.

Changing a corset into a zipper can typically be done, but may be more extensive. Depending on the size of the dress, we may need to let out the sides or even insert panels to give the room needed for the zipper to close fully.

Most cases, yes – Although cutting the back lower reduces the support of the dress. I can always confirm with an “as is” photo and an inspiration photo and help advise on how this will change how your dress looks/feels

Typically NO! I am a huge believer in that the dress can be altered to fit your shape. If your dress is too large in the cup area, “darts at the bust” can be utilized to fit your shape. We can also add in push-up cups if desired!

I typically only suggest adding in a full bra if the dress is strapless and the cup size is larger than DDD.

You, your dress, and the shoes you plan to wear!

Do you need that corset/shaper/ spanx?-typically not! If it will make you feel more comfortable on your big day, absolutely bring it along!

Shortening straps, taking in at sides: bust/waist/hips, hem (shortening the length), and bustle (pinning up the back so you can dance!)

A bustle is a form of pulling up your train to make your walking around and dancing at your reception effortless.

There are several kinds of bustles! Every dress is made differently: the style of your dress, train length/shape, materials, and how the hem is made all effect the style I will suggest for your dress.

An ideal amount is no more than 2 sizes. What is a dress size? Though it is different for everyone because everyone loses weight differently, a good rule of thumb for a dress size is 15 pounds. Past that can absolutely be done, but might change the esthetic of the dress (depending on how it is made)