Common Mistakes Brides Make with Wedding Dress Alterations
- Iluta Willis
- Jun 10
- 8 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When it comes to finding the wedding dress—the one you’ve imagined, dreamed about, and maybe even pinned a hundred times—many brides make the same assumption: that once you find the perfect gown off the rack, the hard part is over. But here's the truth that often gets overlooked in the excitement: no matter how stunning it looks on the hanger or in the dressing room, your dress isn't truly ready to walk down the aisle until it's been tailored to fit you. The biggest mistake brides make? Skipping wedding dress alterations altogether or underestimating their importance.
A gown that fits almost perfectly isn’t good enough for your big day, because “almost” doesn’t photograph well, doesn’t feel comfortable, and certainly doesn’t live up to how special this moment should be.
Read on to learn more about common mistakes brides make with wedding dress alterations.
Looking for a professional seamstress in Peterborough? Contact our alteration shop!
Common Mistakes Brides Make with Wedding Dress Alterations
A gown that fits almost perfectly isn't sufficient for your big day, because "almost" doesn't photograph well, doesn't feel comfortable, and doesn't match the significance of this special moment.
Continue reading to discover why every dress requires bridal alterations.
1. Skipping Wedding Dress Alterations (It Is a Big Mistake—Yes, Every Bride Needs Them!)
There is no dress, and no woman, that doesn’t need at least some tailoring. Why?
When it comes to bridal wear, the importance of wedding dress alterations cannot be overstated. Every wedding dress is designed and manufactured in standard sizes, which are based on average body measurements. However, the reality is that most women do not uniformly conform to these standardised sizes. Each woman has her unique proportions, which means that while one area of the gown may fit perfectly, such as the bust or the waist, another area may not align as well. This discrepancy can lead to a dress that, while beautiful in theory, does not flatter the entire body as it should. Without proper alterations, the gown may lack the elegance and grace that every bride desires on her special day.
Alterations can be simple yet impactful, such as adjusting a strap to ensure it sits comfortably on the shoulder, adding a dart to enhance the fit around the bust, or sewing in cups for additional support and shape. These small adjustments, though seemingly minor, can significantly elevate the overall appearance of the dress. Alterations are not merely about making a dress fit; it is about shaping the gown to complement your unique silhouette. This process transforms the dress from a generic piece of clothing into a stunning garment that appears to have been custom-made just for you.
Moreover, the process of tailoring involves a keen eye for detail and an understanding of how fabric behaves. A skilled tailor will consider the weight of the material, the style of the dress, and the bride's personal preferences to ensure that every alteration enhances the overall design. For instance, a trained professional might recommend a hem adjustment to create a more flattering line or suggest a bustle to allow for ease of movement during the reception. These thoughtful modifications not only improve the fit but also enhance the bride's comfort and confidence as she walks down the aisle.
In addition to the physical adjustments, the emotional aspect of tailoring should not be overlooked. Wearing a wedding dress that fits impeccably can significantly boost a bride's self-esteem. When a dress hugs the right curves and flows beautifully, it allows the wearer to feel more at ease and radiant on one of the most important days of her life. This feeling of confidence is invaluable, as it can shape the entire wedding experience, from the ceremony to the reception and beyond.
Read more: Why Are Wedding Dress Alterations Important?
2. Underestimating the Complexity of Wedding Dress Alterations
Many brides assume alterations are quick or minor — just a hem here or a nip there.
In reality, wedding dress alterations can be complex and time-consuming, especially with intricate details like lace, beading, or multiple layers.
Custom changes (like reshaping a neckline or adding sleeves) require skilled hands and multiple fittings. Underestimating this process can lead to rushed work, extra stress, and even disappointing results.
Starting early and working with an experienced tailor makes all the difference.
3. Delaying the Start of Wedding Dress Alterations
Don’t leave alterations until the last minute—timing is everything when it comes to achieving the perfect fit. The ideal time to begin your alterations is about three months before your wedding day. This allows for multiple fittings if needed and gives your seamstress the time and flexibility to make precise, thoughtful adjustments.
At the very latest, you should start the process no later than six weeks before the big day. Rushing through alterations can lead to unnecessary stress and compromises in the fit and finish of your gown. Starting early ensures there’s ample time for detailed tailoring, last-minute tweaks, and peace of mind as you count down to your walk down the aisle.
4. Not Planning a Budget for Alterations
This is a common concern, but don’t skip this step. Instead, plan for it.
Investing in wedding dress alterations is a crucial step in the journey to finding the perfect gown. It ensures that every bride can walk confidently down the aisle, knowing that her gown has been tailored to fit her body beautifully. So, whether it involves simple adjustments or more extensive modifications, taking the time to tailor your wedding dress will undoubtedly result in a look that is both stunning and uniquely yours.
Alterations should be part of your overall wedding dress budget. Expect to spend between £80.00 and £350.00, depending on the complexity of the adjustments.
How much do wedding dress alterations cost? At our alteration shop, prices start at £80. However, the average cost for dress alterations is around £180.00–£350.00.
Here are a few examples to give you a better idea:
Shortening the hem: £80–£120, depending on the number of layers and fabric type
Taking in or letting out the sides: £50–£100
Adjusting shoulder straps: £20–£40
Adding bra cups for support: £20–£30
Creating a bustle (to lift the train for the reception): £30–£60
Reshaping or customising the neckline or sleeves: £60–£150
Remember, each dress is unique, and so are the alterations it may require. A simple fit adjustment might be on the lower end of the scale, while more complex changes, like restructuring the bodice or working with intricate lace, can be higher.
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5. Prioritising Style Over Comfort
Many brides go into alterations determined to perfect the look of their gown — which is totally understandable. But when every adjustment is focused on aesthetics, comfort can get overlooked.
Maybe the bodice looks flawless, but now it’s impossible to sit. Or a tightly fitted skirt means you can’t walk naturally. Alterations are your opportunity to make the dress not just look beautiful, but feel wearable. Be honest during fittings about pinching, digging, or tightness — your seamstress can often make small tweaks that preserve the style and let you breathe, move, and dance freely.
6. Neglecting Proper Sizing During Fittings
It’s surprisingly common for brides to stay quiet during fittings — even if something feels a little off.
Whether it’s too snug in the bust or slightly gaping at the waist, assuming “it’ll feel better later” is a mistake. Your fittings are your moment to speak up about anything that doesn’t feel right. Dresses should feel secure but not restrictive, and minor adjustments now can prevent major discomfort later.
Don’t let excitement or nerves stop you from advocating for a fit that’s just right.
7. Prioritising Getting the Dress Down Several Sizes
Trying to tailor a gown down by multiple sizes can seriously backfire.
While a good seamstress can work magic, bridal gowns aren’t built to be dramatically resized.
Seams, boning, and embellishments can get distorted or compromised, and the silhouette may no longer look the way it was designed to. Brides who fixate on making a too-large dress fit them “perfectly” risk ending up with something that feels overworked or awkward. If the dress is more than one or two sizes too big, consider professional advice on whether it’s worth altering or if another gown might be a better (and safer) choice.
8. Forgetting to Bring Shoes and Undergarments to Fittings
When preparing for your dress fittings, a few key details can make all the difference in how your gown looks and feels. From the shoes you wear to the undergarments you choose, these small considerations help ensure your dress fits flawlessly and functions beautifully on your big day.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
Bring your shoes to fittings: Your wedding shoes aren’t just an accessory—they’re essential to getting the fit of your dress just right. The hemline of your gown depends entirely on your heel height. If you arrive to your fittings without the exact shoes you’ll wear on the day, your seamstress may hem the dress too short or too long. Wearing your wedding shoes during each fitting ensures the length is perfect, allowing you to walk gracefully without tripping or dragging the dress.
Think about undergarments: Undergarments can dramatically affect the fit and appearance of your dress. While many wedding gowns come with built-in corsets or boning that provide support, not all designs offer the same level of structure. In some cases, the right bra, shapewear, or seamless briefs can smooth your silhouette and enhance comfort. It’s a good idea to bring any undergarments you plan to wear to your fittings, or ask your seamstress for recommendations based on your gown’s cut and fabric.
9. Not Adding a Bustle for Wedding Dress
If your dress has a train, you’ll want to add a bustle—and trust us, you’ll be glad you did.
A wedding dress bustle gathers up the train and secures it to the back of your dress, making it easier to move, dance, and enjoy your reception without stepping on your gown. There are several styles of bustles, from the elegant French to the classic American bustle, and your seamstress can recommend the one that best suits your dress design.
How does the bustle work?
Before the ceremony, your dress train flows freely behind you.
After the ceremony (typically before the reception or dancing), someone helps you "bustle" the dress.
This usually involves small hidden hooks, loops, buttons, or ribbons sewn into the dress.
These are used to lift and tuck the train into folds and secure it to the back of the dress (like in the photo below). Once bustled, the train is held up permanently for the rest of the event — it’s not meant to be taken up and down repeatedly.
Can you let the train down again later? Technically yes, but it’s not practical to do so during the event. It usually requires someone helping you carefully unhook or untie the bustle. So, it’s more like a one-time switch: train down for the ceremony, train bustled up for the rest.
In Summary: Why Wedding Dress Alterations Matter?
Your wedding dress is more than just a purchase—it’s a transformation.
Wedding dress alterations complete the look, ensuring your gown enhances your natural beauty and fits like a glove. With the right planning, the right timeline, and a good seamstress, your dress will truly feel like it was made just for you.
Looking for professional tailoring in Peterborough? At iStitch, we specialise in wedding dress alterations, bridesmaid and prom dress alterations and customisation, helping brides feel confident and beautiful on their special day. Contact us to inquire about alterations in Peterborough or book your fitting.
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