Alterations

What is a made-to-order dress?

A made-to-order dress is made for you once you have confirmed your order. Your dress is just that, your dress. It will be brand new and won’t be tried on by any other bride. It’s important to understand that while your dress has been made to order, it has not been made to your measurements, this is made-to-measure, a more premium service which is available at an additional cost. When you order your dress we will take a series of measurements. We use these to guide us as to the best size you order your dress in. Dresses come in a standard length, they can be made shorter or longer at an additional cost.

Why do I need alterations?

Since your dress has been ordered in a standard size and length it is very likely your dress will require some alterations to achieve the perfect fit. In the event your measurements span more than one size, we usually order your dress in the size that suits the largest measurement. This will mean that the dress is likely to be bigger in some places than others.

Who will do my alterations?

We have a recommended seamstress who can complete your alterations. You are not obliged to use this seamstress, instead you are welcome to collect your dress and take it to a seamstress of your choice.

Where will I have my fittings and when will they take place?

You will be offered 3 fittings which will take place at the boutique. We like to book these nice and early, so don’t be surprised if we get in touch with you 3-6 months before the fittings commence in order to secure the time with the seamstress. Ideally your first fitting will take place 8-12 weeks before your wedding. Each fitting will be spaced 2-4 weeks apart, we aim to have them complete approx 2 weeks before your wedding. Please note these timings can vary and if you choose to order your dress in a shorter time frame then your fittings will have to take place over a shorter period of time, subject to the seamstresses availability. Fittings at the boutique typically take place on a Monday. If you require a Saturday appointment you can book this directly with the seamstress at her studio We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. If you have purchased a dress form us in the sample sale you will be given the seamstresses details to contact her directly for your appointments.

Each fitting will take approx 30 minutes. It’s important you arrive on time as we usually see brides back to back on these days.

What alterations might I need?

In most instances your hem will need to be taken up to make it the perfect length. It’s important you bring the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day to all your fittings. The seamstress will not alter your hem without them. If you plan to wear heals to start with, then later change in to flats, we recommend you have the hem altered to the heel length, but you can agree this directly with the seamstress.

It is typical to require a take in around the hip, waist, bust and side seams. Sometimes these are small tweaks, other times they can be bigger take ins depending of how your proportions fit the size.

Other small alterations that may be required are a shoulder lift or taking up of the sleeves.

What do I need to bring to my fitting appointments?

You must bring the shoes that you plan to wear on your wedding day with you. The seamstress will not alter the hem without them. Ideally come in the underwear that you plan to wear on your wedding day. This is especially important if you plan to wear a bra and if you want to check seam visibility if you plan to wear a fitted dress. We recommend you do not wear fake take as this will likely transfer onto your dress.

Can the seamstress help customise my dress?

It is usually possible for the seamstress to customise your dress. It’s important you talk to the seamstress in your first fitting about any customisations you want to make to ensure they are possible and there is enough time to complete them. In the event extra fabric is required we will do our best to source this for you at an additional cost and subject to availability.

What if I have changed size since my measurements were taken?

If you have changed size since your measurements were taken, don’t panic, we can still usually alter your dress to achieve the perfect fit. It is usually easier to take your dress in than to let it out. If the dress is too big you may require it to be taken in in more places or for the take ins to require a little more work. If the dress is too small, it may be able to be let out using the seam allowance. If this is not the case the seamstress will advise you of the options you have to help get the best fit.

It is best that you are able to maintain your body shape from the first fitting to avoid additional work.

How much will my alterations cost?

It is hard to say how much your alterations might cost. An average price is approximately £350-£400, they can exceed this or come in a little under this.

Your seamstress will confirm the cost of your alterations to you in your first fitting once she knows what work is required. If you want to proceed you will be required to pay a 50% deposit before the seamstress will commence work on your dress. The remaining 50% is due on completion. All alterations are paid directly to the seamstress.

You can read our T&C’s here with more information about your alterations. Head to our FAQ’s or drop us an email if you have any further queries.