Wedding and prom dress alterations in Gravesend.
A wedding dress is the one garment where a near-enough fit is not good enough. We fit properly, over as many sessions as it takes, in a private fitting room on Burch Rd.
Bridal shops sell dresses in sample sizes and expect somebody else to make them fit. That somebody needs to be able to take a boned, lined, beaded gown apart and put it back together without it ever showing — which is pattern work, not hemming.
What bridal alteration actually involves
Taking in or letting out through the bodice while keeping the boning, seam lines and any beading in the right place. Shortening from the hem, or from the waist on a dress with a structured skirt. Adding cups, straps or a modesty panel. Fitting a bustle so the train lifts cleanly for the reception. Re-setting a neckline or shoulder that gapes. Final press and hang before you collect.
How many fittings you need
Usually three. The first is a full assessment where we pin and agree what is being changed. The second checks the altered fit and refines it. The third is the final try-on, close to the day, with your shoes and underwear. Bridesmaids are normally two. Prom and occasionwear is often one or two.
When to book
Come to us eight to twelve weeks before the wedding. That leaves room for three fittings and any surprises. We do take shorter turnarounds, including a few days, but it limits what we can sensibly change and there may be a rush charge. Ring rather than emailing if the date is close.
Prom, ball and occasionwear
Prom season is short and everybody arrives in the same fortnight. If your prom is in June, come in April. We alter prom dresses, ball gowns, black tie, christening and prayer outfits, and we can add straps, adjust a slit, re-shape a neckline or take a dress in several sizes.
Come prepared and the fitting is quicker
The shoes
The exact heel height you will wear on the day. A hem pinned in flats is a hem pinned wrong.
The underwear
Whatever you plan to wear underneath, including any corsetry or cups. It changes the fit through the bodice.
Time
Allow an hour for a first bridal fitting. It is not a job to do on a lunch break.
A second opinion
Bring whoever you trust. It is much easier to decide with someone there.
Things brides ask
How far in advance should I book?
Eight to twelve weeks before the wedding is ideal. That allows three fittings without rushing. We can work to shorter deadlines — ring us on 07703 298765 and we will tell you honestly what is achievable.
How many sizes can a wedding dress be taken in?
Two sizes is comfortable. Three is usually possible but involves re-cutting rather than simply taking in seams, because the darts, boning and any beading all have to move. We will tell you at the first fitting what it will cost and how it will look.
Can you add a bustle?
Yes. We fit French, American and ballroom bustles depending on the train and the dress, and we show whoever is helping you on the day exactly how to fasten it.
Do you alter dresses bought online?
Yes, and it is very common. Bring it in as early as you can — online dresses vary more from their stated size, so there is sometimes more work than expected.
Can you work with beading and lace?
Yes. Beading is unpicked before the seam is moved and re-applied by hand afterwards so the pattern runs unbroken. Lace is matched at the seam. It takes longer, and the price reflects that.
Do you press the dress before I collect it?
Yes, and we hang and bag it. If you are collecting well before the day, we will tell you how to store it so it does not crease.
Other things we make and mend
Book a bridal fitting
Ring the studio and we will put aside a proper slot and a private fitting room.