You’ve ordered your wedding dress, yay! How exciting. Your wedding dress is a huge part of your big day, made specifically for you with your chosen style, colour, and size. But one of the most common questions brides have is, “Will my wedding dress fit me perfectly when it arrives?” The answer is, not quite—but that’s entirely normal and expected. Here’s why:
Understanding Wedding Dress Sizing
Wedding dress sizing can be a bit different from what you’re used to. Unlike high street sizes, wedding dress designers follow their own specific size charts. This often means the size you end up ordering may differ from your usual size, sometimes causing surprise among brides. It’s important to remember that these size charts are unique to each designer. They would ideally offer incremental sizes rather than the standard UK sizes (8, 10, 12, 14, etc.) to better accommodate the variations in body shapes.
No person’s measurements perfectly align with standard sizes, so some alterations will always be necessary. Whether it’s adjusting the bust, waist, or hips, your dress will need some tailoring to ensure it fits you like a glove.
Blue Light Photography
Length Matters
Standard wedding dresses typically come in a length of 61 inches, which may not be the ideal fit for everyone. Depending on your height and the shoes you’ll be wearing, your dress might need to be shortened or lengthened. Adjustments like these are quite common, ensuring your dress complements your figure perfectly.
Creating Your Dream Dress
Beyond basic size adjustments, there are numerous custom alterations you can make to your dress. Whether you want to add extra length, change the sleeves, modify the neckline, or add a touch of sparkle, your dress can be tailored to match your unique vision. These adjustments are not done by the designer but by a skilled seamstress who will work closely with you to bring your dream dress to life.
Seng from Enzoani 2025 collection
The Importance of Seamstress Appointments
Your seamstress is the person to trust when it comes to achieving the perfect fit for your wedding dress. During your appointments, it’s essential to be open, honest, and transparent about your vision. Remember, your seamstress isn’t a mind reader, they rely on your feedback to make the necessary changes. Whether it’s a slight nip at the waist or a complete redesign of the neckline, your input is invaluable.
Seamstresses are incredibly skilled and can work wonders with your dress, so never hesitate to ask for alterations or personalisation. It’s your special day, and your dress should be nothing less than perfect.
Working as a Team
Achieving the perfect fit requires teamwork between you and your seamstress. Every bride is different, and so is every dress. The number of appointments you’ll need will vary depending on the complexity of the alterations and the style of your dress. Trust your seamstress to guide you through this process, advising you on how many fittings will be necessary and what changes need to be made.
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Budgeting for Alterations
It’s important to remember that alterations are a separate service from the purchase of your dress. Your seamstress will provide you with a quote for all the work required, and this fee is paid directly to them, typically at your second fitting. Be sure to budget for these costs when planning your wedding expenses. For more information about alteration costs, please refer to the guide available in the back of your Order of Service booklet or visit our website.
Lia said YES TO THE DRESS
When are my fittings?
Your wedding dress fittings are typically scheduled 6-8 weeks before your wedding day. This timeframe ensures that your body measurements are as accurate as possible, while still allowing enough time for any necessary adjustments. During these fittings, your seamstress will make sure that your dress fits perfectly and aligns with your vision. It’s important to keep these appointments close to your wedding date, so your dress is tailored to your current shape and any last-minute tweaks can be accommodated.
Your wedding dress is an extremely special purchase, it’s a life moment, it’s a reflection of your style and a key part of your wedding day. While it may not fit perfectly when it first arrives, rest assured that with the help of your seamstress, it will be tailored to perfection. By working together as a team, you’ll create a dress that fits beautifully and makes you feel incredible on your special day.
Our fitting suites
Here at TDR Bridal Birmingham we have our very own seamstresses that work on site to alter your wedding dress. Our seamstress appointments are precious as our seamstresses spend a lot of time behind the scenes working their magic, meaning fitting appointments are limited but we will work alongside you to ensure your fitting dates are suited to you.
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