Wedding
Dress
FITTING GUIDE
Because fashion preferences were once ornate and
dependent on precise fits, ready-to-wear clothing really
did not become widely available until the early 20th
century. Such attire is now available in just about any
retail store.
Because ready-to-wear clothing is so readily available,
the average person may be unfamiliar with custom-made
or tailored items. In fact, a couples’ wedding may be the
only instance in their lives when they require the services
of a seamstress or tailor.
Fittings are a part of wedding planning, and here’s how
brides-to-be can navigate the process of finding and
being fitted for a dress.
Try on sample gowns
The first step is to make your rounds to various gown
shops and try on the samples they have available. Most
sample sizes will not be the size you wear every day, so
expect them to be ill-fitting. Do not be discouraged.
Once a gown is chosen, the dress shop will take your
measurements and order the gown according to the
manufacturer’s sizing guide. Again, this can be shocking,
since the size will likely be larger than what you wear in
street clothes. Some shops will also order a little larger to
allow for adequate tailoring.
Schedule the first fitting
The first fitting should be anywhere from eight to 12
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2020 SOUTH-CENTRAL INDIANA WEDDING GUIDE
weeks before the wedding date, according to experts at
WeddingWire, an online wedding information provider.
This is the time it takes to complete most standard
alterations. Complex customizations can take even
longer. Brides should also budget a minimum of $500 for
alterations, which may or may not be included in the price
of the dress.
Bring shoes and undergarments
Remember to bring along the exact shoes and
undergarments you will wear with your gown. A change
in shoes or bra/corset can result in the alterations fitting
poorly the next time. Bring these items along to all
subsequent fittings.
Speak up
Martha Stewart Weddings suggests speaking up at
fittings if anything is uncomfortable or needs tweaking.
Seamstresses are masters at their crafts, but only
if they understand the desires of the bride. Open
communication with a seamstress and bridal shop can
ensure brides-to-be get a dress that fits like a glove.
Check the details
The second fitting is designed to check that all issues
from the first fitting have been addressed, the gown is
comfortable and you can
move freely. At the last fitting, ask the maid of honor to
come along so that she understands how to bustle or
help you handle complicated straps or closures.