Pricing for Bridal Alterations
Why Can Bridal Alterations Be So Expensive Sometimes?
We get asked this question all the time! To put it simply, your gown is an artistic masterpiece, and you deserve for it to fit every curve perfectly, for it to support you in all the right places, and for none of its spectacular beauty to be compromised by a quick slapdash hem or tuck in the waist.
At Kimberly James Bridal, we do provide alterations services. Prices are usually between $400 and $950. Your price will depend not on the cost of your dress when it was ordered, but on how much work needs to be done on your gown.
When we order your gown, we are ordering the size for your curviest measurement. Here is a hypothetical example: Say your measurements put you at a size 8 in the chest, a 6 in the waist, and a 12 in the hip. If the gown is a fit-and-flare style, that hip measurement is crucial, so we would order the 12 to make sure it lays perfectly across that region. Then, in alterations, the top of the gown gets fitted to perfection to match those measurements.
If these exact measurements were taken, but for an A-line gown that has some volume on the bottom, that hip measurement is not going to matter as much, so we would likely order the 8 for the chest, and then take in at the waist as needed.
All of this finessing of the size is a part of the bridal alterations process. Alterations experts who have an affinity for Bridal are dedicated to making sure your gown feels like it was made just for you. Consider also that whenever we are taking in or letting out a gown with lace detailing, your seamstress must remove all of that lace or appliqué by hand, adjust the gown’s sizing, and then re-stich the details back over the new paneling. It can be very difficult and precise work, and this is why we recommend you work with a tailor or seamstress that specializes in Bridal and does this type of precision work every day.
In addition to adjusting the size, hemming each layer of the dress to be the perfect length is a must. Hemming often involves moving a lace border, a scalloped edge, beaded details, or appliques up to the new hemline so they are not lost. And I’m sure you’ve heard of a Bustle, right? If not, the bustle is the contraption, for lack of a better word, that your seamstress builds into the dress so that post-ceremony you can get your train lifted off the ground. You wouldn't want anyone to step on your train as you mingle with your adoring guests! There are multiple types of bustle — see our blog post on the different types here. Our goal in the creation of the bustle is for it to serve its function throughout your wedding while also giving your gown a beautiful second look. We want to show off the buttons, the lace details, the draping of the train rather than hiding it all away. This is, again, where you need the expertise of a bridal seamstress.
Also consider the customizations that many gowns need — be it new sleeves or straps, extra lace added to the dress, or new boning put into the bodice for extra support and lift.
Finally, remember that alterations are priced based on your seamstress’s expert skills, the many hours they put into your gown, as well as the years of training and experience in the artform that they bring to the table.
If you would like to get your gown altered with us at Kimberly James Bridal, call us to set up an appointment! We look forward to bringing your vision to life and making your gown as perfect as it can be for your big day!
