Key points
- If the dress is too big in the bust, waist, or hips, you can take in the seams to make it smaller.
- The cost of altering a bridesmaid dress will vary depending on the type of alterations needed and the seamstress you choose.
- The time it takes to alter a bridesmaid dress will also vary depending on the type of alterations needed.
When you’re a bridesmaid, you want to look your best on the big day. But what if your bridesmaid dress is too big? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many bridesmaids find themselves in the same situation. With a few simple alterations, you can make your bridesmaid dress fit perfectly.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start altering your bridesmaid dress, you’ll need to gather a few supplies. These include:
- A sewing machine or needle and thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- A measuring tape
- A seam ripper
- A dress form (optional)
Step 2: Take Measurements
The first step to altering your bridesmaid dress is to take measurements. This will help you determine how much fabric you need to remove. Measure your bust, waist, and hips. You should also measure the length of the dress from the shoulder to the hem.
Step 3: Mark the Alterations
Once you have your measurements, you can mark the areas of the dress that need to be altered. Use pins to mark the seams that you need to take in. You can also use chalk or fabric marking pen to mark the areas that need to be shortened or lengthened.
Step 4: Take in the Seams
If the dress is too big in the bust, waist, or hips, you can take in the seams to make it smaller. To do this, use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches along the seam. Then, fold the fabric under along the marked line and sew it back together.
Step 5: Shorten or Lengthen the Dress
If the dress is too long or too short, you can shorten or lengthen it by cutting off or adding fabric. To shorten the dress, measure the desired length and mark it on the fabric. Then, cut off the excess fabric. To lengthen the dress, measure the desired length and cut a piece of fabric to that length. Then, sew the new fabric to the bottom of the dress.
Step 6: Make Other Adjustments
If the dress is too loose or too tight in other areas, you can make other adjustments to improve the fit. For example, you can add darts to the bodice to make it more fitted. You can also add a sash or belt to the waist to cinch it in.
Step 7: Try on the Dress and Make Final Adjustments
Once you’ve made all of the alterations, try on the dress to make sure it fits properly. If there are any areas that still need to be adjusted, you can make them now.
Tips for Altering a Bridesmaid Dress
- If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, you can take the dress to a professional seamstress.
- If you’re making major alterations, it’s a good idea to do a test run on a similar piece of fabric.
- Be patient and take your time. Altering a bridesmaid dress can be a challenging process, but it’s worth it to get the perfect fit.
Summary: How to Alter a Bridesmaid Dress That’s Too Big
With a little time and effort, you can alter your bridesmaid dress to fit perfectly. Just follow the steps in this guide and you’ll be sure to have a beautiful and flattering dress for the big day.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How much does it cost to alter a bridesmaid dress?
A: The cost of altering a bridesmaid dress will vary depending on the type of alterations needed and the seamstress you choose. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for basic alterations.
Q: How long does it take to alter a bridesmaid dress?
A: The time it takes to alter a bridesmaid dress will also vary depending on the type of alterations needed. However, you can expect the process to take anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks.
Q: Can I alter a bridesmaid dress myself?
A: If you’re confident in your sewing skills, you can alter a bridesmaid dress yourself. However, if you’re not sure how to do it, it’s best to take the dress to a professional seamstress.
