In my experience, 98% of bridal gowns has to be altered.

Every dress is different, and every woman’s body is different, too. The same dress will not fit exactly the same on another woman’s body. To achieve a perfect-fitting dress that complements your figure, you need some sort of alterations. Done well, the gown will move with your body. You don’t want to be tripping on your hem as you walk down the aisle.

Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re selecting your dress and considering alterations.

 1. Order a gown that is true to your size.

A wedding gown is usually made of material that doesn’t have any give, that is, they cannot conform to your body like clothes with spandex. Don’t order a bridal gown that is a couple of sizes too small because you think you are going to lose 10kgs. It is always easier to take in a wedding dress than it is to let it out because its construction is more complicated than a normal dress. You are looking at three to six layers of fabric, with beading, lace and patterns. It’s not just a matter of cutting the material, we have to try and match the patterns and layers so it looks as beautiful on you as it does hanging in the shop.

2. Consider your figure and height when choosing your wedding dress

Most wedding dresses will need their hemlines raised. If you choose a bridal gown with special detail like lace scallops at the hem, I will have to remove the hem and reattach it at the right length for your height. This will require labour intensive work and will increase your alterations costs. In some cases, we have to raise the hemline from the waist.

3. You will need a bustle or three

Every bride wants her train to trail gracefully behind as she walks down the aisle ala Princess Diana, but you don’t want to be holding up your train while trying to dance or while mingling with your guests. The style of your dress will determine what bustles you choose, and your dressmaker should be able to advise you on that.

4. Buy your wedding shoes before your first fitting

So I can hem your dress to the perfect length, you need to be wearing the shoes you will wear on your wedding day when you come for your first fitting. The same goes for your lingerie – bring your lingerie along so I can see how your dress looks with it.

5. If your weight is changing, then make your appointment as close to your wedding date as possible.

Most brides plan to lose a few kilos before their wedding. Some are breastfeeding, and so their bust sizes are different to when they buy the dress. If your weight is not going to be constant, I suggest making your first fitting about three to four weeks before your wedding.

These are some of the basic alterations you will probably require. Of course, anything can be done to alter the look of your wedding dress… changing the neckline, altering the sleeves… remember, the more complicated the alterations, the more it will cost.

With good communications between you and your dressmaker, the wedding dress alterations process doesn’t have to be stressful.