How much are alterations?

Alterations costs vary according to the amount of work that needs to be done and the complexity of the dress. Alterations for a wedding gown usually run $150-$450. 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 $150 for alterations.

Do you have in-house alterations?

We have partnered with some master seamstresses, many of whom are local and one who has a shop in Chicago for our city brides. Fittings take place at our seamstress's home in her fitting studio, 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 to four fittings depending on how much work the dress needs. Complex work such as changing the size of a dress completely or constructing a custom jacket can sometimes require more fittings.

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/third 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 a few 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.