Easy wedding dress alterations and made-to-measure tips

Summer is here and so is wedding season! This is the busiest time of the year for dressmakers, who will be working on custom-made wedding dresses and wedding dress alterations.

We will be busy tailoring many off-the-rack wedding dress to a perfect fit. We are often contacted by clients want to change the details of their dress. They may love the fabric but want to add or remove sleeves, lower the neckline, or create a closed or open back.

Most good-quality dresses can be altered to perfection. If you think you will need a dressmaker we recommend contacting them early and making an appointment at least 2 months out.

Common wedding dress alteration questions

Here are the some of the questions we get asked by brides-to-be who book in with us:

Q: How long do dress alterations take? How far in advance do I have to book for my wedding dress to be altered?

A: At least 6 weeks, but preferably more than 2 months. We are very busy in the summer – and this is not a project you want to rush.

Q: What do I bring with me for the fitting (besides the dress)?

A: Bring the shoes and underwear you will wear on the day, if you have them.

Q: Can I bring someone along?

You are very welcome to bring friends or family to an appointment. Our fitting room is modern and spacious so you can try on your outfit and get feedback in a comfortable space.

The big one: How much do wedding dress alterations cost?

A: Unfortunately we can’t give a quote without knowing what you need! The price depends on the amount of work and time spent on the dress. This job takes skill, precision and expertise and cannot be rushed.

Talk to your dressmaker about your budget before they start work. We always text the bride an estimate in advance of starting on the dress, to make them aware of the cost.

An Out Of This World wedding dress

We were delighted to be trusted with alterations to this gorgeous wedding dress last year. We took in the waist and hips for a perfect silhouette, added an overskirt and cups, and shortened the straps. We also worked on the bridesmaids’ dresses and bride’s mother dress, to ensure they were picture perfect for the big day.

And what pictures they were!

The lovely couple’s wedding was being celebrated in Cobh Cathedral when the Earth Globe was on show so they had the amazing display above them as they walked up the aisle.

The advantages of a made-to-measure wedding dress

Not everyone wants alterations. Rather than trudge around the shops or take a risk on ordering online, many brides choose to design their own dream wedding dress from scratch.

You don’t need to worry about sizing with a custom-made dress – you know it will fit and flatter your figure. We can help you work with the latest wedding dress trends, advise on flattering fabrics, cuts and silhouettes to both suit your figure. We also help you pick out colours to match your natural colouring, ensuring you look amazing on the day and in the photos.

Make a Wedding Dress fitting appointment online – Cork

Want to make an appointment for a wedding dress alteration or a custom-made wedding dress? We are based on Glanmire, 10 minutes drive from Cork city. You can phone us or book online, where there are plenty of appointment slots to choose from.