So you’ve found the wedding dress of your dreams - the one that made your heart skip a beat and had everyone in the boutique gasping. But now what? Is it ready to walk down the aisle with you?
Not quite! That’s where the real magic happens: in the alterations room.
Here at Loretta Bridal, we believe that alterations aren’t just a finishing touch - they provide a complete transformation. From subtle tweaks to full on tailoring, the right alterations can elevate a beautiful gown into your dream dress. Let’s take a peek behind the curtain and explore just how powerful this hidden part of the bridal journey can be!
Why Alterations Matter
The thing is, wedding dresses aren’t designed to fit perfectly off the rack like a t-shirt from your favorite store. They’re made with standard measurements in mind, and every bride is beautifully unique. So even if a dress mostly fits, alterations ensure it hugs in all the right places, glides as you walk, and makes you feel confident from ceremony to the last dance.
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Maggie Sottero
Arden
The Timeline
We always recommend beginning alterations around 2–3 months before your wedding date. This gives you plenty of time for multiple fittings (usually 2–3), adjustments, and a final tweak if needed.
Pro tip: Bring the exact shoes and undergarments you’ll wear on the big day to every fitting. Your seamstress can’t work her magic unless she’s working with your true wedding-day look!
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Maggie Sottero
Rita
The Top Alterations Brides Ask For
Alterations can be as simple or as detailed as needed, depending on your gown’s structure and your vision. Here are the most common requests we see:
Taking In or Letting Out the Bodice: To ensure a flawless fit around the bust, waist, and hips.
Hemline Adjustments: So you’re not tripping down the aisle - or hiding your fabulous shoes!
Bustle Creation: An absolute must for brides with a train. This invisible magic lets you dance freely at your reception!
Strap or Sleeve Adjustments: Whether you need them lifted, shortened, or reshaped for comfort and style.
Neckline Tweaks: Want a little more coverage or a slightly deeper dip? Consider it done.
Adding Personal Touches: Think beaded belts, lace appliqués, sleeves, or even reimagining a dress element to reflect your style.
With the right hands, your wedding dress can become a custom couture piece without the couture price tag.
The Emotional Side of Alterations
Here’s what no one really tells you: fittings can be emotional. You’ll see your dress evolve with every appointment, getting closer and closer to the vision you imagined. There’s something powerful about slipping into your gown once it’s been altered just for you - it’s no longer a dress. It’s your dress.
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Maggie Sottero
Tina Marie
Final Fitting = Final Confidence
That last fitting is like the final rehearsal. It’s the moment everything comes together - and it’s often when the emotions hit hard! Be sure to bring someone you trust, and take a moment to soak it all in. You’re about to marry the love of your life, and your dress is ready to go on that journey with you.
If you’re searching for any guidance when it comes to alterations, we’re thrilled to offer our expertise to help discover what changes you want to make to your wedding dress!
And if you’re still looking for “the one,” book your bridal appointment with us today!