Each step on your wedding journey will be a memorable experience, and each planned appointment will get you closer to your special day. Scheduling your wedding dress appointment is no different.
From the first appointment to the last, you'll embark on an exciting journey with your seamstress to create a custom-fitted dress for your perfect day. Learn everything you need to know about how to prepare for a wedding dress fitting appointment, from when to schedule your fittings to what to expect during each appointment.
The Timeline
Plan your timeline in a way that will give you enough opportunities to make changes to the dress without stress. To do this, you'll need to know how many fittings you'll want leading up to your wedding day to help you stay on track.
Your First Appointment
Ideally, you should schedule your first fitting with plenty of time for adjustments before the wedding. Your first alteration appointment should be at least two to three months before your wedding, but this timeline could differ based on your seamstress and your needs.
Additional Necessary Appointments
Every appointment after your first gives you the opportunity to share with the seamstress any new ideas you have for your dress. Boutiques design these appointments to hear from you during your wedding planning process, so let them know if you have any concerns.
Most brides will need around three fittings, although this number can vary depending on the complexity of the dress and the extent of alterations you require. Plan out your fitting appointments well in advance to save time and stress.
Your last fitting appointment schedule will depend on your seamstress, but try to plan as close to the wedding date as possible for the most authentic fit. Getting these appointments in the books early will also help you work around any other wedding planning you may have.
Preparing for the Fitting
You might think your first fitting will be stressful, but it doesn't have to be. The first fitting is about getting that first try-on and discussing alterations, so don't feel discouraged if the dress doesn't fit perfectly at this stage. It's only the start of your dress's journey.
What to Bring
During your fitting, bring the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day. This way, the fit and length of the dress will be accurate to the day of your wedding. You can either wear them on your way into the boutique or change into them once you arrive.
Bring along any accessories you'll be wearing to your wedding, including any veils, jewelry, and other accessories you plan to wear with your dress. The seamstress will have an easier time adjusting the dress when they can see the full picture.
Who to Bring
You'll also want to bring others to your first appointment with you. These should be people whose opinions you trust and value, such as siblings, parents, or members of your bridal party. Bringing a smaller group can help keep the focus on you and the dress and ensure the fitting process is calm and enjoyable.
What To Expect
Knowing exactly what to expect on the day of your first visit can help you prepare for your wedding dress fitting appointment. The fitting typically begins with an initial assessment of the dress's fit. The seamstress will pin and mark areas that need altering, such as the hem, bust, waist, and hips.
When you try on the dress for your first appointment, keep an open mind about the fit; alterations can address anything you're not thrilled about. Even full-figure wedding dresses that are more structured and feature built-in support can be altered to provide a comfortable and flattering fit. These fine adjustments will guarantee the best-fitting dress for your needs and body type.
Alterations to Make
Let your seamstress know if you have any concerns about alterations during the appointment. Common adjustments include taking in or letting out seams, shortening the hem, and adjusting the straps or sleeves. If you've chosen a dress with more intricate details like lace or beading, these alterations might take a bit more time and precision.
Once you document the base adjustments necessary, the next step is to make the dress personal to you. Whether it's adding sleeves, changing the neckline, or incorporating additional embellishments, these customizations will reflect your unique style and vision. Discuss any ideas with your seamstress early in the fitting process so that they can accommodate your vision.
Further Adjustments in Future Appointments
As you return for your extra fittings, add any adjustments you thought of in between. Your seamstress is there to guide you through your thought process and help bring those ideas to life. If you decide you want to change up the length or any accessories, let your seamstress know as soon as possible so that she can have everything ready for your final fitting.
The Final Fitting
The final fitting is the last step before your dress is ready for the big day. During the final fitting, you'll take a last look at the complete outfit, including the dress, all the intended undergarments, shoes, and accessories.
Fitting the Wedding
Your dress should be comfortable as you move around during your wedding. Don't hesitate to speak up if something doesn't feel right, as this will be the last time you can ask for changes from your seamstress.
Walk, sit, and even dance a little at your last appointment to ensure your dress is comfortable and fits well in all positions. Also, ensure you can pick up or take off your dress comfortably if you have a wardrobe malfunction or need to use the bathroom. Have your dress as secure and comfortable as possible in your last fitting appointment so you can enjoy your special day.
Scheduling Your Dress Pickup
Once you're satisfied with the fit, the seamstress will make any final adjustments and prepare the dress for pickup. Try not to make any sudden changes between your last adjustment and your wedding to ensure the best fit possible.
After you pick up your dress, preserve it in a safe place so it stays in pristine condition until the main event. Keep it safe from wrinkles or from external forces that can rip or tear the fabric. The next time you'll be wearing it is on your wedding day in front of your friends and family.
With these tips in mind, your wedding dress appointments will be a memorable, stress-free event. Bring those necessary garments and accessories to get the initial fit at your first appointment. Let these customization options inspire you to craft a dress that embodies you.
Getting your wedding dress is an important step in your wedding journey, so don't forget to have fun! Speak up about any ideas or adjustments you're thinking of during your appointment, and watch as you and your seamstress bring your dream dress to life.