Formalwear Alterations Guide
For Bridesmaids, Mother or Bride/Groom, Flower Girl, Prom, HOCO, & beyond.
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The Formalwear Alterations process typically requires 1-3 fittings and 1-4 weeks of alterations. Each fitting is a minimum of 1 week of processing. Review our guide below to help you determine the best time to schedule your first fitting. Typical alterations needed are bodice, straps, and hem.
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We highly recommend scheduling no sooner than 6 weeks from the date of the event.
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Please contact the seamstress to make arrangements if you are scheduling for a minor, on a weight loss journey, pregnant, or breastfeeding. We like to schedule as close to the date of the event for anyone expecting any size changes to ensure the most accuracy.
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Bring all undergarments and shoes planned to wear with the garment for all fittings. i.e. strapless bra, corset, shapewear, slip, petticoat, etc. We do offer Bra Cups in sizes A-H available upon request.
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All pricing is determined by the construction of the gown and the amount of work that needs to be done. The average cost of a Formalwear Hem is $50-$100, Bodice Adjustments $50-75, and Full Formalwear Alterations is $150-$200. We provide accurate quotes upon assessment of the gown and alterations needed.
Consultation (optional)
Preliminary meet & greet to establish cost, timeline, and alterations needed. Not required but strongly recommended if you are on a budget, weight loss journey, or growth development (pregnant, nursing, or a minor)
Appointment Length: 15 minutes
When to Schedule: ASAP
What to Bring: Optional but recommended, Dress, Undergarments, Shoes, & Questions
1 Fitting
You need only ONE of the following alterations:
Bodice Taken in
Bodice Let Out
Hem (length)
Additional Alterations that do not affect the timeframe:
Straps
Bra Cups
Appointment Length: 20-30 minutes
When to Schedule: No less than 1 week from the day you need it
What to Bring: Dress, Undergarments, & Shoes
2 Fittings
You need BOTH: Bodice Taken in or Let out AND a Hem (length)
Once the body of a dress is altered, it changes the length. To ensure the correct length, we require you to return for a 2nd fitting for the hem.
Appointment Length: 20-30 minutes each
When to Schedule: No less than 2 weeks from the day you need it
What to Bring: Dress, Undergarments, & Shoes
3 Fittings
You need your dress resized more than 2 sizes with additional alterations. Dresses needing more than 4" taken in or more than 2" let out, plus a hem.
Appointment Length: 20-30 minutes each
When to Schedule: No less than 3 weeks from the day you need it
What to Bring: Dress, Undergarments, & Shoes
