Wedding Dress Alterations
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AFTER
Vintage wedding dress upcycle and bespoke cape
“I had the best experience working with Caroline to create my perfect wedding look. She worked with me to upcycle my mother’s wedding dress and design bespoke cape to compliment it. Not only was the dress and cape finished to the highest quality, the journey of bringing my vision to life with Caroline was so special. She understood my personal style and added beautiful details that perfected the final result. I couldn’t recommend Caroline more! ”
-Emma
Yes, I do offer bridal alterations and customisation services for wedding dresses bought elsewhere!
I understand that this is probably the most expensive garment you've ever bought and is laden with so much significance. I am here to make sure that it fits you perfectly and elevates your confidence, with minimal stress and overwhelm.
Wedding dresses are made in a much more specialised way than everyday garments, so you need to be sure to entrust your special gown to an experienced bridalwear seamstress, like me.
Here's what you need to know about the experience, prices and results.
Common alterations include
- Shortening the hem
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Size adjustments
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Design changes, such as neckline reshaping, decorating with fancy trims or beadwork and the addition or removal of sleeves.
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Shoulder take up
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Add bust support
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Add bustle
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Steaming
Perhaps you have a more unusual request?
I love a challenge. Get in touch!
How much do bridal alterations cost?
My minimum charge is £150 and brides typically spend between £300 and £600 on their alterations, so it is worth setting aside an alteration budget when buying your wedding dress.
The price of bridal alterations is dependant on factors such as (but not limited to) numbers of layers to be altered, complexity of style, construction of the dress, the requirement for additional materials and the delicacy of fabrics.
The list below is by no means exhaustive, but are the most common ones.
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AFTER
Prices
Hem shortening: front only from £90. Double for all around. Typical hem spend: £250
Bustles: £15 per pick up point.
Typical spend in the range of £15-£75
Take in/let out: from £80. Typical spend £130
Add bust cups - from £25
Adding replacing buttons £1 each
Adding full sleeves from £200 + fabric
Solve gaping neckline from £30
Add boning from £30
Good to know:
Lace and/or beaded dresses are more expensive to alter
Letting out a small dress is often more expensive than taking in a big dress
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BEFORE
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AFTER
“We can’t thank Caroline enough for the incredible work she did on both of our dresses. She was so friendly, patient, and really listened to what we needed. The alterations were perfect, and we both felt amazing on the day. As two brides, it meant so much to have a seamstress who was welcoming and supportive of us as a same sex couple, and we’ll recommend her to everyone we can. We’ll definitely be back the next time we need alterations! Thank you so much :)”
- Caroline And Natalie
FAQ's
Why do you charge for the initial consultation?
I have spent decades learning and practicing my craft. The advice and time I spend with you at the first consultation is a result of that accumulation of experience.
This way I am sure that I work only with lovely brides who value what I do and are committed to showing up!
How does payment work?
You pay for your first appointment at time of booking LINK.
The Initial consultation is where we discuss what needs to be done and a quote. You pay 50% of that booking fee at this stage.
My card machine takes most debit cards, otherwise bank transfer is accepted.
The balance is payable at or just before collection date.
What if I miss my appointment?
Missed appointments will be chargeable at £30 each
When do I need to settle my balance by?
For alterations, the balance will need to be settled before you can take your dress away.
Who should I bring for alterations?
Definitely wear the bra, and bring the shapewear and underskirt (if any) that you intend to wear on the day and bring your wedding shoes to every appointment.
What other clothing do you alter?
Depending on my availability, I will take on evening, bridesmaid and prom dress alterations, which are chargeable at the same rate as for bridalwear.
I don't take on casual wear or gowns badged as bridalwear from fast fashion outlets.
How long is an appointment?
One hour per appointment is usually ample, but I won't rush. I want to be sure that I have understood your requirements and have communicated the desired outcome to you.
When should I book?
Wedding season gets busy very quickly, so as soon as you know you are going to need me, book your consultation!
You will need to book your first appointment with me
10 – 12 weeks before your wedding /you fly out
This gives us enough time, in case your alterations are complicated and need extra fittings.
I aim to get the dress done 2 weeks before you need it.
Do you offer evening and weekend appointments?
Evening appointments are available Monday – Friday until 6.00pm (last start time) and Saturdays 11.00am – 4.00pm.
If you are coming a long way, or have a tricky schedule, we can usually find a workable solution, so just contact me.
How many appointments will I need?
Usually, 2 visits to my studio are enough for standard alterations