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“What is important in a dress is the woman who is wearing it.”

YVES SAINT LAURENT

Bridal Alterations

Some wedding dress designers offer custom measurement options when ordering your gown but most do not. They are most often ordered to fit your largest measurement and therefore will almost always require some alterations.

The most common alterations on a wedding dress are a pinch at the bust, shortening straps (if your dress has them), possibly taking in the waist and hips too, and shortening the hem. Sometimes, however, there is a bit more work to do such as letting out seams if the dress is too small, reshaping the neckline, shortening the train etc.

In instances where you would like to have a sleeve, extra lace or beads added, or you require panels added for a better fit, it is important to ask your bridal boutique if it is possible to order the fabric/lace from the designer. This allows for a better match to your dress and an overall nicer look. It can often take just as long for fabric to be delivered as it does for your dress to come in so make sure to ask as soon as possible so you will have it in time for your fittings.

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First Fitting

Your first appointment should ideally take place approximately 8-10 weeks out from your wedding. Make sure to bring your shoes with you as well as the underwear you intend to wear. If you have a fitted dress, it is always worth looking at shapewear as this will often improve the fit. We will talk about your expectations for the fit of the dress and pin everything in place.

Second Fitting

Most of the time you will require a second fitting, in some cases there are only minor alterations to do and we can skip this step. This fitting will take place approximately 3-4 weeks after your first fit. The changes that were discussed in the first fitting will now have been done, some areas of the dress may only be tacked before doing the final stitching just in case it needs to be undone. The hem will also only be tacked and not finished, this allows us to check the length is perfect and gives you a chance to walk around in the dress if you couldn’t before because it was too long! We will also make any more adjustments as required. As before, make sure to bring your shoes and undies!

Final Fitting

Fingers crossed! The dress should be perfect! We should now be about 1-2 weeks away from your wedding and your dress should be finished. Depending on how much work needed to be done, you may have had an extra fitting before now, or there may still be some minor tweaks after this fitting. If the dress is fitting you like a glove then you can always take it away with you on the day. If there are still some bits and bobs to finish, then we will arrange for you to collect your dress at a later date. Congratulations! You can go get married now!

“Life is a party. Dress like it.”

AUDREY HEPBURN

Bridal Party Alterations

Here at Paper Moon Bride, I also offer bridesmaid, mother of the bride/groom and flower girl alterations. After all, the wedding dress is not the only dress that usually needs perfecting! The most common alterations on these dresses are taking up the straps and shortening the hem. Bridesmaids come in all heights and sizes so it can be tricky to find the right dress that will look the best on everyone but expert alterations can make all the difference to the overall look of your bridal party.

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First Fitting

First fitting appointments for bridal party alterations should take place, at the latest, 4-6 weeks before the wedding. As with wedding dresses, you should bring along the underwear/shapewear you will be wearing on the day as well as the shoes.

Final Fitting

Some dresses may require a second fitting in between the first and final but in most cases, bridal party alterations can be done in just two fittings. This last fit will take place around 1-2 weeks before the wedding and dresses can usually be collected the same day.

“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous”

coco chanel

Prom and Special Occasion Alterations

Weddings are not the only event we get to wear a fabulous dress to. From proms and awards nights to race days and Christmas parties, a well-fitted dress can make all the difference to how you look and feel at your event.

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Fittings

Fittings and alterations on special occasion gowns can take place at any time before your event but no later than 2 weeks before. As with all other alterations, you will need to bring the correct underwear and shoes to your first fitting. A second fitting before the final may be required, particularly for prom dresses, but generally you will only need two appointments.

Bespoke

If you would like to have a matching accessory made such as a tie, shawl or gloves, or have sleeves added, I would need to see you no later than 4 weeks before the event to allow for time to order the fabric required. Sometimes it is possible to order fabric from the designer but I am able to source this if not. Please be aware that using the offcuts from shortening a hem is not always possible.

“You can have anything you want in life if you dress for it.”

EDITH HEAD

Bespoke

Sometimes it feels like there is something missing from an outfit. That finishing touch to elevate a look such as a veil or a belt, or an addition to the dress that will boost your confidence like a sleeve or topper. If you would like to make your dress unique to you then get it touch and let’s see what we can create together.

If you would like your bespoke piece to match your dress exactly then it is always worth asking your boutique if they can order the fabric or lace direct from the designer. I am able to source fabric for you, and will always strive to match it to your dress as close as possible, but having the exact fabric is a bonus.

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Veils

Veils can be made in any length or style, according to your individual needs. If you would like to have a veil made to match the lace on your dress, it is important that this is ordered through your boutique from the designer to ensure we have the exact same lace. If you are unsure how much lace to ask for please get in touch and I can advise you.

Sleeves

There are many different types of sleeves that can be added to your dress. From simple off shoulder straps to full length sleeves and more. I can also make detachable sleeves, toppers and boleros – giving you two looks in one!

Overskirts

Another option to change up your look from day to night is to add an overskirt. These can be made in fabrics such as tulle, mikado or organza, and can have a split to the front or side – there are many options to choose from which we will discuss based on the style of your dress and your requirements.