Post # 1
Member
15 posts
Newbee
Hello newly/very soon to be wed bees!
I purchased my dress today and when I asked about the cost of alterations for my dress they said they charge a flat rate of $325 — that seems high to me?
The dress itself doesn’t need too many alterations besides the typical hemming and adding a bussle. One thing I MIGHT consider doing is smoothing a neckline of the dress since I’m removing the side tulle and I’m afraid it might look odd. I’m waiting to see what it looks like without it though because it might not even need to be altered.
How much did you pay for your alterations/adding a bussle? Any input is greatly appreciated it! I’d like to be able to have a good idea of what is ‘reasonable’ so I can make a decision based on that and reputation of a seamtress. Thank you!! 🙂
Post # 3
Member
9056 posts
Buzzing Beekeeper
I paid $300 for a hem and a bustle. My dress came in 2 weeks before my wedding, so I got stuck just having to have the bridal store do it. If you shop around, you may be able to find a cheaper seamstress that’s not affiliated to the store.
Post # 4
Member
94 posts
Worker bee
I paid $200 for a hem and a bustle, but I got my alterations done by the seamstress at Bridal Co, which is more like an outlet store.
Post # 5
Member
3871 posts
Honey bee
My dress cost $165 for hemming and bustle.
What I would suggest is to get a second or third opinion from different seamstresses.
But honestly, I looked at your dress (which is gorgeous, btw) but it looks like it has a lot of layers. Usually a lot of layers means it will be expensive. My dress only had 2 layers but if your dress has 5-6 layers, it mean more work and therefore more money.
Anyway, get some more opinions from other seamstresses with good reviews. Just make sure to get good seamstresses because the cheapest one might not give you the best quality in service.
Good luck!
Post # 6
Member
435 posts
Helper bee
$70 to move my privacy panel over, take off an inch at the bottom, create my bustle and get it steamed. Great small town price!
Post # 7
Member
3526 posts
Sugar bee
I paid ~$150 to add a bustle and sew in cups.
I’m not a huge fan of flat rates for alterations because girls like you who need minimal work done get screwed over!
ETA: @ttn133:
Good point. I just took a look at your dress as well and there are many layers. So I can understand the $300 cost then. It means more work for the seamstress.
My dress only had the outer layer that had to be bustled.
I would ask around other bridal shops (some might do alterations even though you did not purchase from them) and professional seamstress who have experience with wedding gowns.
GL!
Member