When/Why Should You Alter Your Dress?

Nov 6, 2024

When should you use a tailor?

You could use a tailor when you have a problem with your dress, need to change the fit, want to make the dress more flattering, or want to alter the design of the dress, especially when it comes to formal dresses, evening gowns, or well-structured long dresses.

Likewise, the first question you should ask yourself is: “Does this dress fit like I want it to?” If the answer is yes, then there is no point in altering your dress. Whether you're buying a dress for prom, a wedding, or to wear at work, you have plenty of reasons for wanting it to fit perfectly. The fit is the first thing that people notice about an outfit, whether it’s prom dresses, wedding dresses, or elegant cocktail dresses, so making sure your dress fits you exactly is essential. If your dress is too big or small, chances are that no amount of styling tricks like strategic layering or fancy footwear will save it.

If the answer is no, however, if your hemline doesn't sit where you want it to or the waist isn't tight enough, then look for dress alterations near me or wedding dress alterations near me, as you'll need to bring in a professional tailor who specializes in wedding alterations. Tailors are experts at fixing all kinds of dress issues, and they can even alter dresses that weren't made with alterations in mind—they're masters at making alterations for special occasions, including bridesmaid dresses and party dresses, and can help make sure that your final product fits just right and doesn't end up looking like something out of The Nutcracker.

Can you tailor it yourself?

You may be tempted to do it yourself, but you should consider the cost of alterations before trying. If you have the time and patience, then by all means go ahead. You could save some money by doing it yourself. It’s possible to tailor clothes at home if you know what you're doing, especially simpler styles like cocktail dresses or casual party dresses.

If not, though, altering clothes at home will likely result in an inferior product compared with what a professional tailor could do for you. If you want the best outcome for your dress—particularly detailed evening gowns or plus-size dresses that require precision—going to a professional tailor is your best option.

Which dresses can and can’t be tailored?

The first thing to consider is whether or not the dress you're thinking of altering can be tailored. You may think that all dresses can be tailored, but that's not true. Most dresses can be altered to some extent, including many formal dresses and long dresses, but there are a few that are too complex and or delicate for tailoring.

If your dress has a complicated pattern, intricate detailing like beadwork, or extra straps or decorations like crisscrossed straps, it's probably best left as is. You might want to think twice about tailoring if your chosen gown has an elastic waistband, because those are notoriously hard to alter without ruining the whole look of the dress. Is your dress strapless? If so, it may be a good idea to have a seamstress add cups to the bodice or even sew in an entire bra. This will give you more coverage and support during the dance, especially for structured prom dresses.

How long does it take to tailor?

If you're interested in getting your dress altered, you might ask, “How long will it take?” Like most things, the answer is “it depends.”

Depending on the type of alteration and the type of dress, alterations can be completed in a matter of hours or days. For example, if you need to get your hem shortened or take up some lace sleeves to make them longer, these types of alterations can be done in just a few hours with no appointment necessary. But if you want something more complicated, like removing shoulder pads or changing out buttons for something more unique on evening gowns or wedding dresses, then it may take longer to schedule an appointment and complete these types of projects.

Alternatively, if there are multiple people waiting to be served at an alteration shop, then this could also add time to your project because they'll have to wait until someone frees up before they can start working on yours.

How much does it usually cost?

The answer to this question will also depend on the dress and what you want to do with it. If the dress is one that can simply be taken in, then the cost will be minimal. However, if there are alterations that need to be made, like taking out a seam or adding beads to formal dresses or bridesmaid dresses, then it will add to the price of your alterations.

Prom Dresses Long Corset Off-Shoulder Prom Dress Gown Dusty Laender

FAQs

Q1.When should I get my dress altered?

A: Ideally, alterations should be done two to four weeks before your event.

Q2.Can plus-size dresses be altered easily?

A: Yes, plus-size dresses can be altered, but professional tailoring is recommended.

Q3.Is it worth altering an expensive dress?

A: Absolutely, proper alterations can make high-quality dresses look custom-made.

Q4.Do all tailors work on wedding dresses?

A: No, wedding dress alterations should always be done by a specialist.

Final thoughts

There are a lot of reasons why you might want to alter your dress. You can alter as much or as little as you want, depending on how much time, money, or patience you have available. Whether it’s prom dresses, wedding dresses, or elegant formal dresses purchased from The Dress Outlet, alterations are about making sure you feel comfortable and confident in what you're wearing and that it fits the way you want it to.

If others put pressure on you about when or how much you should change, don't listen. You know what looks good on your body type, and if something needs altering, then do it. When you invest in quality styles from The Dress Outlet, professional tailoring can help transform a beautiful dress into one that feels truly made for you. From timeless evening gowns to special-occasion looks, The Dress Outlet makes it easier to start with the right dress—and tailoring helps you finish it perfectly.

Dress alteration overview

Alteration type	Best for	Estimated time
Hem shortening	Long dresses, prom dresses	Few hours
Taking in the waist	Formal dresses, cocktail dresses	1–2 days
Adding structure	Strapless evening gowns	2–3 days
Detailed changes	Wedding dresses	Several days

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