How Much do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost

Hey, congratulations on your upcoming wedding! I’m sure you are super excited and busy with all the preparations. For your wedding, one of the most important things you need to do is to find your dream wedding dress.

But you know what? Even if you find the perfect dress, chances are it won’t fit you perfectly right away. Since store-bought wedding dresses rarely perfectly fit upon purchase and most of the brides go through multiple fittings to get the right size and shape for their big day.

That’s why you might need to get your wedding dress altered. After all, you want your gown to fit you like a glove and reflect your personal style. But how much does it cost to alter a wedding dress? Well, that’s what I’m here to tell you.

I have done some research and found out the average cost of wedding dress alterations, the different types of alterations cost you might need to know and the factors that affect the cost.

So in this article you will get to know on these topics:

• How much do wedding dress alterations cost on average
• Factors affecting the alteration cost
• Two types of alteration: basic hemming and customization with their associated costs

The Average Cost of Wedding Dress Alterations

After doing research and visiting many forums and platforms that were discussing the cost of wedding dresses, I observed that most brides spend between $400 to $500 on wedding dress alterations on average. However, the cost can range from $200 to $700 depending on many factors.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Wedding Dress Alterations

When it comes to determining the cost of wedding dress alterations, there are several factors that can influence the final price. One of the main factors is the extent of the alterations needed.

If your dress requires only minor adjustments, like hemming or taking in the sides, you can expect to pay a lower price. On the other hand, if your dress requires major alterations, such as changing the neckline or adding sleeves, the cost will likely be higher.

Another factor that can impact the cost is the complexity of the dress. If your dress has intricate beadwork, lace, or other delicate details, it may require a more skilled and time consuming alteration process, which can drive up the cost.

Additionally, the location of the alterations specialist can also affect the price. Alteration services in metropolitan areas or upscale bridal boutiques tend to be more expensive compared to those in smaller towns or less prestigious establishments.

Lastly, the timeframe in which you need the alterations completed can also play a role in the cost. If you require rush alterations, expect to pay a premium price for the quick turnaround time.

Understanding these factors can help you plan and budget accordingly for your wedding dress alterations. In the next section, I will show you specific cost ranges for different types of alterations, providing you with a better idea of what to expect when it comes to pricing.

Also Read: How Much Does Dry Cleaning of Wedding Dress Cost

The Types of Wedding Dress Alterations

There are two main types of wedding dress alterations: basic hemming and customization.

Basic Hemming

Basic hemming is when you adjust the length and sides of the dress to make it fit your body shape and size. This is the most common and essential type of alteration, as most store-bought wedding dresses are not made to fit your exact measurements.

The most common basic alterations are:

Hemming the dress:

You can shorten the dress to match your height and the shoes you will wear. This way, you can avoid tripping over your dress or showing too much of your feet.

The average cost of hemming a wedding dress is between $70 and $280, depending on the number of layers, the type of fabric, and the amount of work involved.

Number of layers	Type of fabric	Amount of work	Cost range
1	Plain	Low	$70 – $100
2	Chiffon	Medium	$100 – $160
3	Lace	High	$160 – $280

Taking in or letting out the sides of the dress:

You can make the dress narrower or wider to fit your bust, waist, and hips. This way, you can accentuate your curves and get enough support from your dress. The average cost of taking in or letting out the sides of the dress is between $35 and $50 per side, depending on the material and the amount of work involved.

Material	Amount of work	Cost range per side
Cotton	Low	$35 – $40
Silk	Medium	$40 – $45
Lace	High	$45 – $50

Taking in or letting out the sides of the skirt or bodice:

If the dress has a different size on the top and bottom, you can adjust the width of the lower or upper part of the dress separately. This way, you can balance and proportion your dress.

The average cost of taking in or letting out the sides of the skirt or bodice is between $20 and $45 per side, depending on the material and the amount of work involved.

Material	Amount of work	Cost range per side
Cotton	Low	$20 – $25
Silk	Medium	$25 – $30
Lace	High	$30 – $35
Satin	High	$35 – $40
Tulle	High	$40 – $45

Narrowing or reducing the shoulders:

You can adjust the width of the shoulder straps or sleeves to fit your shoulders. This way, you can keep your dress in place and prevent it from slipping off. The average cost of narrowing or reducing the shoulders is between $45 and $50, depending on the material and the amount of work involved.

Shortening the straps:

You can adjust the length of the shoulder straps or sleeves to fit your arms. This way, you can make your dress comfortable and not too tight or loose. The average cost of shortening the straps is between $20 and $40, depending on the material and the amount of work involved.

Customization

Customization is when you add new elements or change existing ones to modify the appearance and style of the dress. This is the type of alteration that can make your dress more unique, comfortable, or suitable for your wedding theme.

The most common customization alterations are:

Adding Bra Cups:

Enhance the bust with padding or underwire for support and shape. Cost: $20 to $30 on average, depending on cup type and size.

Adding Straps:

Introduce shoulder straps or sleeves to provide more coverage and support. Cost: $60 to $300 on average, varying with strap type, length, and material.

Adding a Belt or Sash:

Accentuate the waist with a decorative band or ribbon for contrast and flair. Cost: $30 to $45 on average, based on the type, width, and material.

Adding a Bustle:

Incorporate hooks, buttons, or ties to lift and secure the train post-ceremony. Cost: $25 to $300 on average, influenced by points, bustle type, and required work.

Adding Sleeves:

Integrate long or short sleeves for added coverage and warmth, suitable for the season and venue. Cost: $240 to $480 on average, depending on sleeve type, length, and material.

Adjusting Sleeve Length:

Tailor the sleeve length for proportionality, ensuring it suits your arms. Cost: $50 to $100 per side on average, depending on sleeve type, length, and material.

Adjusting Train Length:

Customize the length of the trailing back part for the right amount of drama and elegance. Cost: Over $300 on average, influenced by train type, length, and material.

Modifying Back Design:

Alter the back shape or style, adding details like a keyhole, V-shape, or lace-up for interest. Cost: Over $240 on average, depending on modification type, size, and material.

Adjusting Neckline:

Change the shape or style of the front for a flattering look. Cost: $50 to $75 on average, influenced by neckline type, size, and material.

Replacing Neckline:

Switch the neckline type for a different look and feel. Cost: Over $300 on average, based on replacement type, size, and material.

Changing Zipper to Corset:

Replace the zipper closure with a lace-up closure for a romantic, vintage vibe. Cost: Over $180 on average, depending on type, size, and material.

Bead Work:

Add, remove, or repair beads, sequins, crystals, or embellishments for a sparkling appearance. Cost: Around $35 per hour on average, depending on bead type, quantity, and quality.

Here is the table for cost of each so you can see better:

Customization	Average Cost
Adding bra cups	$20-$30
Adding straps	$60-$300
Adding a belt or a sash	$30-$45
Adding a bustle	$25-$300
Adding sleeves	$240-$480
Adjusting the length of sleeves	$50-$100 per side
Adjusting the length of the train	Over $300
Modifying the design of the back	Over $240
Adjusting the neckline	$50-$75
Replacing the neckline	Over $300
Changing the zipper to a corset	Over $180
Bead work	Around $35 per hour

After reading this, you should have a clearer idea of how much your dress alteration will cost. If your dress only needs basic hemming and a few customizations, you can add up the costs from the above pricing tables and get the final price.

Final Thoughts and Considerations

Choosing the right professional for your wedding dress alterations is a crucial step in ensuring that your dress fits you perfectly on your special day. While the cost of alterations is an important factor to consider, it should not be the sole determining factor in your decision.

Remember, your wedding dress is a once-in-a-lifetime garment, and you deserve to have it tailored by someone who understands its importance. The expertise and precision of a reputable tailor or seamstress can make all the difference.

So, take the time to read reviews, seek recommendations, and schedule consultations with different professionals.

Consider their experience, pricing, and turnaround times, but also pay attention to how they communicate with you. A good professional will listen to your needs and concerns and ensure that they can meet your expectations.

In the end, investing in quality alterations will ensure that your wedding dress fits you like a dream and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your big day.

I hope this article has helped you with your wedding dress alterations cost. If you have any questions or feedback, please let me know in the comments below.