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Wedding Dress Shopping Tips from a Seamstress

Updated: 2 days ago

As a bridal seamstress, I’ve worked on hundreds of dresses and seen how they fit real people, not mannequins.


While a dress might look stunning on a hanger, that doesn’t always mean it will work for your body or your big day. I’ve seen brides fall in love with a gown at first sight, only to face disappointment when it doesn’t fit or move the way they imagined. Every bride’s body is unique, and even the smallest detail—like the placement of a seam or the weight of the fabric—can make a big difference. The shopping process itself can also affect how you see a dress—too many opinions or feeling rushed can lead to confusion. That’s why it’s smart to start early and keep your group small.


Before you buy, here are a few wedding dress shopping tips — a few things to keep in mind to save yourself stress, money, and multiple fittings.


Already bought a wedding dress and need professional bridal dress alterations in Peterborough? Contact our alteration shop!


Wedding Dress Shopping Tips from a Seamstress


Here are a few things to keep in mind before you start shopping for a wedding dress.


Looking for a wedding dress in Peterborough? Check out our store.


1. Prioritise Wedding Dress Fit Over Size


One of the top wedding dress shopping tips is to focus on wedding dress fit over size.


Bridal sizing is different from everyday clothing, so don’t panic if the number on the size tag is higher than what you're used to.


What really matters is how the dress fits your body, not the label. Focus on how the gown shapes, supports, and moves with you. A well-fitting dress will always look better than one that technically "fits" by size but doesn’t suit your proportions.


2. Look At the Structure, Not Just the Sparkle


It’s easy to fall in love with lace, beads, or embellishments—but the real magic is in the structure.


When it comes to selecting the perfect dress for special occasions such as weddings, proms, or formal events, the allure of intricate details like delicate lace, sparkling beads, or stunning embellishments can easily capture your heart. These decorative elements undoubtedly add a touch of glamour and elegance, transforming a simple garment into a statement piece. However, it is crucial to recognise that the true essence of a well-fitting dress lies not just in its surface beauty but in its underlying structure and support.


The importance of structural integrity in a dress cannot be overstated. A gown that lacks built-in support, such as strategic boning or quality lining, can lead to discomfort and distraction throughout the evening.


Imagine attending a significant event, only to find yourself constantly fidgeting with your dress, adjusting straps, or pulling at fabric that simply does not hold its shape. This kind of discomfort can detract from your enjoyment of the occasion, making it difficult to focus on the festivities or engage fully with your friends and loved ones.


Already bought a dress that doesn’t sit quite right? Don’t worry—we can help. Book a bridal alterations appointment with us and let’s make sure your dress fits you perfectly.



3. Know What’s Easy to Alter—and What’s Not


One of the best wedding dress shopping tips is understanding which parts can be altered and which cannot.


The hem and straps are the easiest to fix — the bodice, not so much.


Shortening straps or adjusting the hemline is usually a quick and simple fix—these are some of the most common and straightforward wedding dress alterations. But when it comes to the bodice, things get more complicated. If the bodice is too loose, too tight, or doesn’t sit properly on your torso, correcting it often requires significant time, skill, and cost.


That’s why it’s so important to prioritise the bodice fit when choosing your dress. The bodice provides the structure and support that shapes your silhouette and holds everything in place. If it feels right from the start, the rest of the wedding dress alterations will likely be much easier—and more affordable.


Look for a gown that fits you well through the bust, waist, and torso, even if the straps or length need tweaking.


4. Don’t Dismiss a Dress Too Quickly: Ask What Alterations Are Possible


Don’t assume something “unusual” can’t be altered — ask first.


It’s easy to walk away from a dress with unique features—like sleeves, illusion panels, high necklines, or dramatic backs—because you assume they can’t be altered. But the truth is, many of these details can be adjusted with the right skill and experience. A talented seamstress can reshape sleeves, modify necklines, change lining, or even rework lace and appliqué to suit your vision.


Before you pass on a dress that almost feels right, just ask. You might be surprised at what’s possible with expert alterations—and you could end up with a gown that’s both unique and made to fit you perfectly.


If you want sleeves, don’t rule out sleeveless — we can often add them. If you’re dreaming of sleeves but find the perfect sleeveless dress, don’t walk away just yet. In many cases, we can add custom sleeves or straps that match the style and fabric of the original gown. It’s all part of making the dress truly yours.



5. A Straining Zipper Is a Sign—It’s Not Your Size


If the zipper feels tight, pulls awkwardly, or looks strained when you try the dress on, that’s a clear sign the dress is too small. Even if it technically zips up, it’s not the right fit if it feels restrictive or creates tension lines across the fabric.


Don’t rely on alterations to fix a dress that’s too tight—there’s often limited seam allowance to let it out, and doing so can compromise the structure or design. It’s much easier (and safer) to take in a dress that’s slightly too big than to let one out that’s too small.


Always choose the size that fits your body comfortably from the start, especially in the bodice and waist. Alterations can fine-tune the fit, but they can’t perform miracles.



6. A-Line and Empire Styles Are the Most Forgiving for Fluctuating Weight


If your weight tends to fluctuate—or you just want some extra breathing room—A-line and empire waist dresses are your best friends. These styles are naturally more forgiving because they don’t cling tightly to the body and instead offer a soft, flattering shape that flows away from the midsection and hips.


An A-line silhouette gently skims the body from the waist down, creating balance and elegance without feeling restrictive. Empire waist dresses sit higher, just under the bust, allowing the fabric to fall loosely over the stomach and hips. Both options give you a little more flexibility in fit, which can be especially helpful if your body changes slightly between purchase and the big day. They’re also more comfortable for long wear. If comfort, confidence, and flexibility are priorities for you, these styles are definitely worth considering.


Also, empire waist and A-line styles are among the best wedding dresses for pregnant brides. Empire waist gowns have a high seam that sits just under the bust, allowing the fabric to flow freely over the bump without pressure, making them ideal for any stage of pregnancy. A-line dresses, which are fitted at the top and gently flare out from the waist, offer a graceful silhouette and a bit more room in the midsection, making them a great choice for early to mid-pregnancy.



7. You Don’t Need a Corset Dress to Get a Great Shape — Tailoring Does More Than a Lace-Up


It’s a common belief that only a corset-style wedding dress can give you that perfect hourglass figure.


While corsets can offer structure and support, they’re not the only (or the most comfortable) way to enhance your shape. Expert wedding dress alterations can often achieve the same flattering result, without the tight lacing, stiff boning, or discomfort that can come with wearing a corset for hours.


A well-tailored dress is made to fit your unique proportions, hugging in the right places and allowing ease where you need it. Through careful adjustments—like shaping the seams, refining the waist, or adjusting the bust—a skilled seamstress can bring out your natural silhouette beautifully. So don’t feel pressured to choose a lace-up style if it’s not your thing. A custom-fit gown, even with a simple zip or button closure, can be just as striking and far more comfortable to wear throughout your day.


8. Start Wedding Dress Shopping Early


We've covered tips on wedding dress fit; now let's focus on the more practical side of things with some essential wedding dress shopping tips.


One of the best things you can do for yourself as a bride is to start shopping for your wedding dress early.


Ideally, you should begin looking at least 9–12 months before your wedding day. This gives you plenty of time to explore different styles, try on dresses without pressure, and make thoughtful decisions.


Once you’ve chosen your gown, you’ll also need to account for ordering time (which can take several months), shipping, and alterations. Rushing the process can lead to limited options, higher stress, and extra costs for rush orders or last-minute changes. Starting early gives you breathing room and ensures your dress is ready—and perfectly fitted—well before the big day.


9. Limit Your Entourage


Bringing a huge group of people to your dress appointment might sound fun, but it can quickly become overwhelming.


Everyone comes with their own opinions, preferences, and reactions, and too many voices can make it harder for you to focus on what feels right. Keep your entourage small and supportive—ideally just one or two people you trust to be honest, kind, and respectful of your vision. Whether that’s your mom, sister, or a close friend, the goal is to have people who listen, not just speak. Remember, you are the one wearing the dress, so your comfort and confidence should come first.


10. Allow Time for Alterations


Even if your dress feels close to perfect off the rack, nearly every gown needs some level of alteration to truly fit like a glove.


Whether it’s hemming the length, adjusting the straps, taking in the bodice, or adding bust support, these changes take time—and often require multiple fittings. It’s best to allow at least 6 to 8 weeks for alterations, though more complex adjustments may need longer.



11. Book Wedding Dress Alteration Appointments


Once you’ve found your dress, don’t wait to schedule your alteration appointments.


Booking appointments early ensures your seamstress has enough time to work carefully and make sure everything fits just right without rushing. Waiting until the last minute can limit what’s possible and add unnecessary stress to your timeline. The earlier you start, the smoother—and more enjoyable—the process will be.


We recommend booking your first fitting at least 6 weeks before the event.



12. Trust the Experts


It’s natural to have opinions and preferences when it comes to your wedding dress, but when it comes to fit, fabric, and alterations, trust the professionals.


Seamstresses and bridal consultants have worked with hundreds of dresses and body types; they know how a gown should sit, how fabric will behave, and what changes are realistic. If a suggestion sounds unfamiliar or you’re unsure about a recommendation, ask questions—but keep an open mind. Often, the little adjustments they propose can make a big difference in how the dress looks and feels.


Remember, their goal is the same as yours: to make sure you look and feel your absolute best on your wedding day.


iStitch: Bridal Alterations & Seamstress in Peterborough


Have questions about what can (and can’t) be altered?


Looking for a professional seamstress 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 book your fitting or to learn more about our services.


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