How much are alterations?

Alterations costs vary according to the amount of work that needs to be done and the complexity of the dress. Simple alterations for a wedding gown usually run $75-$300. Most of our designers offer gowns with a "hollow to hem" measurement which means you won't need to have your gown hemmed. A bridesmaid's dress can cost between $35 and $95 for basic alterations. Our alterations specialist would be happy to give you a quote.

Do you have in-house alterations?

We have partnered with three different master seamstresses, two of whom are local and one who has a shop in Chicago for our city brides. Fittings take place in our store, in our seamstress's home, or at the Chicago shop, wherever is most convenient for you. All work is done offsite.

How many fittings will be there be?

There are usually two fittings, one to determine what alterations are needed and a second to make sure your dress fits you perfectly. Complex work such as changing the size of a dress completely or constructing a custom jacket can sometimes require a third fitting.

When should I schedule my first fitting?

Generally your first fitting is about 1-2 months before the wedding but we can always do it closer to the wedding if needed. Bridesmaids and Moms can be done around 1 month before.

What does the first fitting entail?

At the first fitting, our seamstress will pin the dress wherever you need it taken in and determine how you want your gown bustled, whether or not you would like built-in cups, and what, if any, custom changes you would like to make to the gown. Usually, this takes about half an hour.

Do I need to bring anything to my fittings?

You should bring the shoes you plan on wearing as well as any slips or undergarments that will be worn with the dress. If you don't have your shoes yet, just bring shoes with the heel height you plan on wearing. Your second fitting can be a very exciting and emotional experience, so you might want to bring a camera! It's also a good idea to bring whoever will be bustling your dress on your wedding day so they can learn how to do it.

When is the second fitting?

Your second fitting is usually 2-3 weeks after the first fitting, depending on how much work you're having done. Your seamstress will let you know at your first fitting if the alterations will take longer. You may be able to pick up your dress at the second fitting. If not, any additional work can usually be done in less than a week.

Will my dress be steamed/pressed for my second fitting?

If your seamstress is confident your dress will fit for the second fitting, she will steam and pack your dress for pickup. If you prefer, you can have it steamed afterwards and pick it up at a later date. The lead time to have a wedding gown steamed is usually around a week.