How Long Does It Take to Alter a Bridesmaid Dress, and How Much Does It Cost?

Bridesmaid dress alterations take 2–4 weeks depending on complexity. Simple hem alterations take 1–2 weeks.

Complex alterations like taking in the bodice or adding sleeves take 3–4 weeks. Schedule your first fitting 4–6 weeks before the wedding.

Rush alterations cost 50–100% extra. Plan ahead to avoid rush fees and ensure perfect fit.

Bridesmaid Dress Alteration Costs and Timeline: Quick Guide

Alteration Type	Time Required	Complexity	When to Start
Hem (simple)	1–2 weeks	Easy	4 weeks before
Hem (with lining)	2–3 weeks	Medium	5 weeks before
Take in sides/bust	2–3 weeks	Medium	5–6 weeks before
Shorten straps	1 week	Easy	3 weeks before
Bustle addition	2–3 weeks	Medium	5 weeks before
Full bodice restructure	3–4 weeks	Complex	6–8 weeks before

This table shows the most common bridesmaid dress alterations. Simple changes take less time and cost less than complex structural work.

Most Common Bridesmaid Dress Alterations and Costs

Understand what alterations you might need. Each type has different costs and time requirements.

Hemming the Dress

What It Is:

• Shortening the dress length
• Most common alteration needed
• Adjusts hem to your height
• Works with or without heels
• Essential for proper fit

Simple Hem (No Lining):

• Time: 1–2 weeks
• Single layer of fabric
• Straight or slightly curved
• Basic sewing skill required
• Fastest and cheapest option

Lined Hem:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Two or more fabric layers
• Lining and outer fabric both shortened
• More precise work required
• Common for formal dresses

Curved or Asymmetrical Hem:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• High-low or angled hemlines
• Requires pattern matching
• More complex measuring
• Specialized skill needed

Beaded or Detailed Hem:

• Time: 3–4 weeks
• Beading or embellishments at bottom
• Must remove and reattach details
• Very time-intensive work
• Most expensive hem option

Hem Cost Factors:

• Dress length (floor vs tea-length)
• Number of fabric layers
• Embellishments on hem
• Fabric type (chiffon vs satin)
• Whether it needs hand-sewing
• Tailor’s experience level

Taking In the Sides or Bust

What It Is:

• Making dress smaller in body
• Adjusts for loose fit
• Common after weight loss
• Creates better shape
• More fitted silhouette

Side Seams Only:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Takes in dress at waist/hips
• Maintains original bust fit
• Moderate difficulty
• Common alteration

Bust and Bodice:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Adjusts bust, waist, and hips
• More extensive work
• Requires precise fitting
• Medium to high cost

Full Bodice Restructure:

• Time: 3–4 weeks
• Major size reduction (2+ sizes)
• Reconstructs entire top
• May need new zipper
• Most expensive body alteration

Factors Affecting Cost:

• How many sizes to take in
• Whether zipper needs replacement
• Built-in bra or structure
• Boning or internal support
• Embellishments to work around
• Complexity of dress design

Shortening or Adjusting Straps

What It Is:

• Making shoulder straps shorter
• Lifting bodice higher
• Improving shoulder fit
• Preventing slipping
• Quick and simple fix

Standard Strap Shortening:

• Time: 1 week
• Simple adjustment
• No restructuring needed
• Quick turnaround
• Least expensive alteration

Halter or Complex Straps:

• Time: 1–2 weeks
• Multiple attachment points
• May need reshaping
• More involved process
• Medium cost

Converting Strap Style:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Changing strap type completely
• Adding or removing straps
• Requires new fabric
• Complex alteration

When You Need This:

• Dress slides off shoulders
• Straps are too loose
• Bodice sits too low
• Need more support
• Petite height adjustments
• Prefer different strap style

Adding or Removing Sleeves

What It Is:

• Adding coverage to sleeveless
• Removing existing sleeves
• Changing sleeve length
• Modifying neckline
• Style preference change

Adding Cap Sleeves:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Small sleeve coverage
• Matches dress fabric
• Requires fabric purchase
• Medium complexity

Adding Three-Quarter or Long Sleeves:

• Time: 3–4 weeks
• More fabric needed
• Complex pattern work
• Must match dress exactly
• High cost and time

Removing Sleeves:

• Time: 1–2 weeks
• Takes out existing sleeves
• Finishes armhole edges
• Less complex than adding
• Moderate cost

Factors That Increase Cost:

• Finding matching fabric
• Intricate sleeve design
• Lace or detailed work
• Need for lining
• Dress construction type
• Tailor expertise required

Adjusting or Adding Bustles

What It Is:

• Attaching points to lift train
• Keeps hem off ground
• Used during reception
• Allows easier movement
• Protects dress from damage

Simple Bustle (2–3 Points):

• Time: 1–2 weeks
• Basic lift system
• Two or three attachment points
• Quick to hook up
• Standard option

Complex Bustle (5+ Points):

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Multiple attachment points
• Creates specific drape
• More intricate system
• Fuller dresses need this

French Bustle (Under-Bustle):

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Fabric lifts from underneath
• More invisible system
• Requires precise placement
• Higher skill level

When You Need This:

• Floor-length dresses only
• Train or excess length
• Reception dancing
• Outdoor venue with ground
• Protect dress from dirt
• Make movement easier

Adding Bra Cups or Structure

What It Is:

• Internal support addition
• Built-in bra alternative
• Eliminates visible straps
• Better bust support
• More confident fit

Simple Bra Cups:

• Time: 1 week
• Sewn-in padded cups
• Basic support only
• Quick addition
• Low cost

Boning Addition:

• Time: 2–3 weeks
• Structural support added
• Metal or plastic boning
• More complex work
• Better support

Full Corset Back:

• Time: 3–4 weeks
• Complete back restructure
• Lace-up closure
• Adjustable fit
• Most expensive option

Benefits:

• No bra needed
• Better support
• Smooth appearance
• Enhanced confidence
• Professional look
• Comfortable all day

Alteration Timeline by Complexity

Complexity Level	Examples	Time Needed	Fittings Required
Simple	Hem, strap shorten	1–2 weeks	1–2 fittings
Moderate	Take in sides, add bustle	2–3 weeks	2 fittings
Complex	Bodice restructure, add sleeves	3–4 weeks	2–3 fittings
Extensive	Multiple major changes	4–6 weeks	3–4 fittings

More complex alterations require more fittings and time. Simple alterations need fewer appointments and finish faster.

How Many Fittings Do You Need?

Multiple fittings ensure perfect fit. Each fitting serves a specific purpose.

First Fitting (4–6 Weeks Before Wedding)

What Happens:

• Wear dress with wedding undergarments
• Tailor pins all needed changes
• Mark hem length with shoes on
• Discuss all alterations needed
• Take initial measurements
• Estimate costs and timeline

Time Required:

• 30–45 minutes
• Longer for complex alterations
• Shorter for simple hem only
• Bring shoes and undergarments
• Wear hair up if planning updo

What to Bring:

• Wedding shoes (exact pair)
• Strapless bra or shapewear
• Any accessories planned
• Photos of desired fit
• List of concerns
• Payment for deposit

Questions to Ask:

• Total alteration cost
• Timeline for completion
• Number of fittings needed
• Rush fee if applicable
• Payment schedule
• Pickup date

Second Fitting (2–3 Weeks Before Wedding)

What Happens:

• Try on with completed alterations
• Check all pinned areas
• Verify hem length again
• Test movement and sitting
• Make minor adjustments
• Confirm final fit

Time Required:

• 20–30 minutes
• Quick check-in appointment
• Final tweaks made
• Less intensive than first
• Most alterations complete

What to Check:

• Hem touches floor correctly
• Straps do not slip
• Bust fits comfortably
• Can sit and stand easily
• Zipper closes smoothly
• No pulling or gaping

Common Adjustments:

• Hem up or down 1/4 inch
• Straps slightly tighter
• Minor side seam tweaks
• Bustle point adjustments
• Small comfort fixes

Final Fitting (1 Week Before Wedding)

What Happens:

• Pick up completed dress
• Do final walk and movement test
• Ensure everything is perfect
• Pay remaining balance
• Get care instructions
• Take dress home

Time Required:

• 15–20 minutes
• Quick pickup appointment
• Final inspection only
• No changes at this point
• Emergency fixes only

When to Skip Final Fitting:

• Simple alterations only (hem)
• Second fitting was perfect
• You trust your tailor completely
• Timeline is very tight
• Pickup only appointment

Emergency Issues:

If something is wrong at final fitting:

• Tailor fixes immediately if possible
• Rush work for wedding week
• May charge additional fee
• Communicate concerns clearly
• Allow 2–3 days for fixes

Alteration Costs by Dress Fabric Type

Fabric affects alteration difficulty and cost. Some materials are harder to work with than others.

Easy Fabrics to Alter

Chiffon:

• Cost factor: Standard
• Easy to hem and adjust
• Lightweight and flexible
• Forgiving of small errors
• Quick to work with
• Most affordable alterations

Cotton Blends:

• Cost factor: Standard
• Simple to sew
• Does not slip or slide
• Holds stitches well
• No special tools needed
• Budget-friendly option

Jersey Knit:

• Cost factor: Standard
• Stretchy and forgiving
• Does not fray easily
• Comfortable to work with
• Good for beginners
• Reasonable alteration costs

Moderate Difficulty Fabrics

Satin:

• Cost factor: +20–30% more
• Shows every pin hole
• Slips while sewing
• Must be very precise
• Water spots easily
• Requires experience

Tulle:

• Cost factor: +10–20% more
• Multiple layers complex
• Must align perfectly
• Delicate and tears easily
• Time-consuming work
• Needs patience

Lace:

• Cost factor: +30–40% more
• Must match patterns
• Cannot cut randomly
• Intricate detail work
• Hand-sewing often needed
• Specialized skill required

Difficult Fabrics to Alter

Velvet:

• Cost factor: +40–50% more
• Shows stitch marks permanently
• Crushes easily
• Special pressing needed
• One-shot precision required
• Expert tailors only

Beaded or Sequined:

• Cost factor: +50–80% more
• Must remove embellishments first
• Hand-sew back on after
• Very time-intensive
• Risk of damaging details
• Most expensive to alter

Silk (Pure):

• Cost factor: +30–40% more
• Delicate and stains easily
• Frays when cut
• Requires silk thread
• Professional skills needed
• Water spots show

How to Find a Good Bridesmaid Dress Tailor

Finding the right tailor prevents alteration disasters. Follow these guidelines.

Where to Find Tailors

Bridal Shops:

• Often have in-house tailors
• Experience with formal dresses
• Understand wedding timelines
• May require dress purchase there
• Higher cost but reliable

Independent Seamstresses:

• Work from home or small shop
• Often lower costs
• Flexible scheduling
• May have more availability
• Check reviews carefully

Dry Cleaners:

• Some offer alteration services
• Convenient locations
• Variable skill levels
• Best for simple alterations
• Not all do formal dresses

Department Store Alterations:

• Available at major retailers
• Standard pricing
• Professional service
• May have long wait times
• Good for basic work

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Experience Questions:

• How long have you been doing alterations?
• How many bridesmaid dresses do you alter yearly?
• Do you specialize in formal wear?
• Can you work with [your fabric type]?
• Do you have examples or portfolio?
• What is your busiest season?

Timeline Questions:

• How far in advance should I book?
• How many fittings will I need?
• What is your standard timeline?
• Do you offer rush service?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• When should I schedule my first fitting?

Cost Questions:

• What is your pricing for [specific alteration]?
• Do you charge by the hour or by project?
• Is there a consultation fee?
• Do you require a deposit?
• What forms of payment do you accept?
• Are rush fees negotiable?

Logistics Questions:

• Where is your location?
• What are your business hours?
• Do you have parking?
• Can I bring someone to fittings?
• Do you have a fitting room?
• How do I contact you for questions?

Red Flags to Avoid

Warning Signs:

• Cannot provide references or reviews
• No formal business location
• Vague or evasive answers
• Does not take measurements
• Promises unrealistic timeline
• Significantly cheaper than others
• Poor communication
• Messy or disorganized workspace
• No payment receipt provided
• Cannot explain alteration process

Trust Your Instincts:

If something feels off, find another tailor. Your dress is too important to risk.

Good tailors are busy during wedding season. Book 6–8 weeks in advance.

Alteration Cost-Saving Tips

Alterations add up quickly. Use these strategies to reduce costs.

Money-Saving Strategies:

Order Closer to Your Size:

• Reduces alteration needs
• Measure accurately before ordering
• Use size charts carefully
• Simple hem cheaper than major work

Do Simple Work Yourself:

• Shorten straps if capable
• Add bra cups at home
• Sew on missing button
• Basic repairs DIY

Combine Alterations:

• Schedule all work at once
• Some tailors offer package deals
• Bringing multiple bridesmaids together
• Group discount possible
• Saves 10–20%

Avoid Rush Fees:

• Start alteration process early
• Book 6–8 weeks in advance
• Do not wait until last minute
• Plan for unexpected delays
• Saves 50–100% rush fees

Shop Around:

• Get quotes from 3–4 tailors
• Compare pricing and reviews
• Balance cost with quality
• Do not choose cheapest automatically

Choose Simple Styles:

• Fewer embellishments cost less
• Plain hems are cheaper
• No lace or beading to work around
• Easier fabrics reduce cost

Use Bridal Party Discounts:

• Some tailors offer group rates
• All bridesmaids together
• Coordinated fitting times
• Loyalty discounts
• Saves 10–15% per person

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to alter a bridesmaid dress?

Simple alterations take 1–2 weeks. Moderate alterations take 2–3 weeks.

Complex alterations take 3–4 weeks or longer. Start the alteration process 4–6 weeks before the wedding.

Can I alter a bridesmaid dress myself?

You can do simple alterations like shortening straps or adding bra cups if you have basic sewing skills. Avoid DIY for complex work like hemming, taking in sides, or working with delicate fabrics.

One mistake can ruin the dress. Professional alterations are safer for anything beyond basic repairs.

When should I schedule my first fitting for bridesmaid dress alterations?

Schedule your first fitting 4–6 weeks before the wedding. This allows 2–3 weeks for alterations and 1–2 additional fittings.

For complex alterations, start 6–8 weeks before the wedding. Rush alterations cost 50–100% more.

How many fittings do bridesmaid dress alterations require?

Most alterations require 2 fittings. Simple hems may need only 1 fitting.

Complex alterations need 2–3 fittings. The first fitting takes 30–45 minutes, and follow-up fittings take 20–30 minutes.

Final Tips for Bridesmaid Dress Alterations

Start the alteration process 4–6 weeks before the wedding. This allows time for multiple fittings without rush fees. Test your dress by sitting, walking, and raising arms at fittings. Ensure comfort for all-day wear.

Ask about package deals if multiple bridesmaids use the same tailor. Group discounts can save 10–20%.Only DIY simple alterations if you have sewing experience. Professional work prevents costly mistakes.

Pick up your altered dress 1 week before the wedding. This allows time for emergency fixes if needed. Keep alteration receipts and tailor contact information. You may need emergency adjustments closer to the wedding date.