| You are likely to require a minimum of two fittings for your dress unless you are having a dress custom made for you. Keep in mind that the fitting is just as important as choosing the wedding dress itself so give it the same consideration as you did in looking for your dress. If your dress doesn't fit you perfectly, don't be shy about scheduling more fittings.
Most bridal dress shops recommend that your alterations be done through their in-house seamstress. Bridal dress shops generally charge more for this service, but it is worth the additional cost if you do not have a reputable seamstress that you trust with your dress. Having the bridal dress shop perform the alterations should give you the peace of mind that your dress will be altered by someone who has the expertise and experience to do a great job. You will also have the assurance that bridal dress shops will assume responsibility for any mistakes and work with you to correct the problem. Even the most beautiful gown can be ruined by bad alterations.
1 Checking In
As the arrival date nears, call the bridal dress shop to confirm that your dress is on schedule to be delivered. At the same time, make an appointment for your first fitting. If you are taking your dress to a seamstress, make an appointment with your seamstress to get fitted. The first fitting should take place approximately 6 weeks before your wedding day.
2 Weight a Minute
If you are planning on losing weight for your wedding day, start early and try to be in wedding day shape for the first fitting. You should expect to maintain the same weight from your first fitting until your wedding day. Changes in your figure/weight can cause issues with the way the dress fits on you.
3 Coming Prepared
Begin looking for your shoes and undergarments (bra and slip) immediately after purchasing your dress. It is important to have all your accessories before your first fitting. Changing your undergarments or the height of your shoes after being fitted can cause your dress to not fit properly and require additional work.
4 Bring Your Family and Friends
It's a great idea to ask the same friends and family that helped you select your dress, accompany you to all your fittings. It's great to have the same pair of eyes tell you how the dress looks after each fitting.
5 The First Fitting
Your first fitting should take place approximately 6 weeks before your wedding day. The first fitting should give you the first opportunity to see how your dress fits on you and allow the seamstress to determine what needs to be taken in, let out, lengthened and shortened. Remember to bring the pair of shoes and bra that you are planning on wearing for your wedding. This will allow the seamstress to determine what alterations need to be done. Also take a very close look at your dress to make sure everything is perfect. Make sure the dress is the exact style, color and size that you ordered. Closely examine the embellishments (embroidery, beading) to make sure there are no flaws with the dress. This will be one of the very few opportunities to let your sales person know that you have some concerns with your dress. Waiting to tell your sales person will waste precious time that should be used to correct the flaws.
6 The Second Fitting
Your Second fitting should take place approximately 4 weeks before your wedding day. Remember to bring the same pair of shoes and bra for your visit. The purpose of the second fitting is to allow the seamstress to see how the alterations made after the first fitting look on you. Generally, the second fitting is primarily used to identify any minor alterations/tweaks to your dress. Unless the seamstress has identified some additional alterations that need to be made, your next fitting will be your last. Therefore don't be shy about voicing any concerns you have about the way your dress looks or feels on you.
7 The Final Fitting
The final fitting should take place a week after your second fitting. Before going to the bridal dress shop, prepare a list of questions you may have such as how to bustle your dress, the correct way to put it, the best way to store it, and how to remove stains and wrinkles. This will be your last opportunity to voice any concerns before the dress is ready to go home.
8 Bringing Your Dress Home
After you are comfortable with the look and feel of your wedding dress, schedule a day to pick up your dress from the bridal dress shop. Try on your dress one more time to make sure everything looks great. |
