How Many Sizes Can a Dress Be Altered
If you've been a bridesmaid before, then you know that there are more responsibilities than just showing up on the big day. One of them being bridesmaid dress shopping and bridesmaid dress alterations. We know it's tempting to believe that alterations aren't necessary. Lots of bridesmaid have tried wearing high heels to bypass this task on their to-do list, but it just doesn't work. You will want, need - and come to appreciate - a hem adjustement. To help you prepare, mentally and financially, this blog includes everything you need to know about bridesmaid dress alternations. Including bridesmaid dress alterations cost, the dress alteration timeline, and so much more! 
Do I Need Bridesmaid Dress Alterations?
The short and easy answer is yes. You will likely need alterations on your bridesmaid dress. Bridesmaid dresses, like most clothing we purchase, are not custom made to your body. Therefore, alterations are necessary to create a perfect and flattering fit.
Bridesmaid dresses come in standardized sizes, so it's common to find your skirt to be too long or straps that have extra length. Dresses are made this way to accommodate a variety of heights and shapes. Even when Kennedy Blue bridesmaid dress sizes fit close to normal dress sizes —a feature that it's not easy to find— there may be a thing or two that you want to customize. So before you go shopping and buy a dress that maxes out your personal budget, its important to keep the bridesmaid dress alteration costs in mind.
Bridesmaid Dress Alteration Costs
Like wedding dresses, bridesmaid alteration costs can differ greatly based on a variety of factors. You may need your dress taken in or out a few sizes, shortened, or adjusted at the straps. Each of these alterations will lend something different to the fit, whether it be to flatter your shape or lend a bit of much needed comfort.
Alteration costs depend on what kind of work needs to be done on the dress, as well as the rates charged by the individual seamstress. Generally, alterations will cost a bridesmaid around $75-150 (in Minnesota).
How Much Does it Cost to Hem a Bridesmaid Dress?
Let's start with the basics: what is a dress hem? A "hem" is when the length of the dress is adjusted to fit your height. Bridesmaid dresses come in different lengths based on the designer and style, so it's not uncommon to require the dress to be hemmed to your ideal length.
The cost of hems typically range from $45 to $90. However this price can vary depending on several factors. Such as:
- If the dress has 1 layer or 2,
- The width of the dress
- If it's a rolled hem
- If it's a horsehair hem
- If hemmed from the waist.
How to Minimize Bridesmaid Alteration Costs
We get it, bridesmaid dress alterations costs are a bother. And you're not alone is trying to minimize the cost. So here are a few easy that you can save a little bit of moolah!
Try On Your Bridesmaid Dress Before Buying
Taking measurements is super helpful in choosing the right size. However, physically trying on the dress (in your chosen size) will help you determine if it fits as nicely as possible. The better a dress fits, the less alterations are needed. Just remember that should you need any alterations, it is easier to make a dress smaller than it is to make a dress bigger.
Want to try on a Kennedy Blue bridesmaid dress before you buy? We've got you! Our Try-at-Home program allows you to try on a selection of our best-selling dresses from the comfort of your own home. Simply pick a dress to be delivered to your front door. Once you've given it a try, send it back and take as much time as you need to make a decision. It's that simple, and for only $10 a dress, you could save a $100 in alterations.
Opt for A-Line Bridesmaid Dress Styles
The bottom line is that some bridesmaid dress style are less likely to require alterations. Why? Because they flatter most any shape and size, and are more comfortable. For example, the A-line sillhouette. It creates a long, lean shape and isn't fitted in the hips – the most common "problem-area" for most women. Since this dress style is really only fitted through the bust and waist, those measurements will be the most important to know.
Shannon
Shannon is a beaded embroidered lace one shoulder bridesmaid dress that features pockets and an a-line skirt.
Kristen
Kristen is a flowing and simple v-neck bridesmaid dress, with thick shoulder straps and hidden pockets.
Maya
Maya is a fun and chic sequin and chiffon bridesmaid gown. It has a halter v-neckline and unique twist strap back.
Forgo Bridesmaid Dress Hem Alterations
If your bridesmaid dress is just sweeping the floor and you don't want to pay for a hem, let it sweep. There's no use paying for an alteration when you are comfortable walking and dancing in its current length (as long as it still looks classy!).
If your bridesmaid dress is just slightly too long, consider pairing it with heels to make up for the length. Just make sure you are confident in the heel height you choose. Wearing heels that leave you wobbly or uncomfortable for an entire day, will make the alteration costs well worth it.
Order A Bridesmaid Dress with Adjustable Straps
It's common for straps to be slightly long so that they can accommodate broader figures. So, many dresses will call for strap alterations. You can avoid that cost by choosing a bridesmaid dress with adjustable straps. This element will allow you to readjust as needed and as much as you like - at no extra cost!
Here are just a few of our best-selling Kennedy Blue bridesmaid dresses that come with adjustable straps.
Sophie
Sophie is a gorgeous simple spaghetti strap bridesmaid dress that features adjustable straps, a tie back, and pockets. This flowy bridesmaid dress is flattering on a variety of figures.
Sasha
Sasha is a gorgeous and elegant sequin bridesmaid dress that features adjustable straps, a v-neckline and pockets. It comes in a range of stunning sparkly colors!
Common Bridesmaid Dress Alterations Questions Answered
Alterations can be confusing, and are a new concept to many. Here are answers to some of the most common bridesmaid dresses alteration questions that we receive at Kennedy Blue.
How Long do Bridesmaid Dress Alterations Take?
Depending on what needs to be done, bridesmaid dress alterations can take 1 to 3 weeks. You may also need several fittings. For example, if a lot of bodice work needs to be done, they may need to complete those alterations before doing the hem. It's not uncommon to need up to 3 appointments.
For this reason, it is recommended that you book your alterations well in advance. If the wedding falls in the off-season, Nov-Mar, book your appointment to take place 1 month before the wedding. In the busy season, Apr-Oct, allow 2 months before the wedding. Order your dresses, get an estimated ship date, and call a seamstress to get on the books. If you wait to call the month of the wedding, you are likely to struggle getting in.
How Long Should a Bridesmaid Dress Be?
There are three hem lengths, and they depend on your preference. A quick visual is comparing hem lengths to curtains. Some like them 1 inch off the floor, some prefer them touching the floor, and some like a slight puddle.
While all three lengths are acceptable, there are factors to consider. First being the location of the wedding. Take into account if it will be outside in the grass, on the beach in the sand, or on a winter day with snow. If it's an indoor wedding, you may prefer a classy hem just touching the floor. Second, is your personal style. If you have difficulty wearing heels, 1 inch off the floor would be best in order to avoid tripping. We never recommend forgoing your comfort for looks.
How Many Sizes Can a Dress be Taken In?
Most bridesmaid dresses can be taken in up to 2 sizes. So, if you ordered your dress in a 14, but are now a 12, there shouldn't be any problem! However, if you're looking to increase the size of your bridesmaid dress, there are more limitations. If you can let out a bridesmaid dress will depend if there is any seam allowance and/or if the side seams have been clipped. Again, it is easier to make a dress smaller than it is to make a dress bigger.
How to Hem a Bridesmaid Dress
Depending on your sewing skills and available supplies, you may be able to hem your bridesmaid dress yourself! But first, it's important to make sure that you have the correct iron to press the hem, without burning the fabric. Trust us, it's happened before! And after all, burning your dress will cost you a lot more than sending it to a professional seamstress!
Conclusion
Did this information help you better understand the need for, cost of, and timeline associated with bridesmaid dress alterations? We hope so! It is our goal at Kennedy Blue to make sure that every bridesmaid feels and looks her very best, and that starts with finding the perfect (and best fitting) dress.
You May Also like…
Need help finding the best dress for a plus size bridesmaid? Our Ultimate Guide to Plus Size Bridesmaid Dresses is for you! It includes tips and need-to-know info on how to pick a dress that will make your bridesmaid feel the most flattered.
Source: https://www.kennedyblue.com/blogs/weddings/bridesmaid-dress-alterations
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