How to Alter a Bridesmaid's Gown

Ensure that your bridesmaid ensemble is as flattering as possible.

An ill-fitting bridesmaid dress can result in an outfit that is not only uncomfortable but frumpy and unfashionable. In order to retain a picture-perfect wedding day look, alter your bridesmaid gown with classic tailoring techniques. A fitted silhouette can make all the difference between a flattering look and an unbecoming one. After all, just because the bridesmaids' gowns are all purchased with the "one style looks great on everyone" mindset doesn't mean that your gown can't benefit from some subtle alterations.

Things You'll Need

• Seam ripper
• Dressmaker's pins
• Sewing machine
• Needle
• Thread
• Scissors
• Tape measure
• Iron

Instructions

1. Fit a gown to your figure by turning it inside out and trying it on. If the dress is lined, you will need to separate the lining from the rest of the dress at the hem with a seam ripper before beginning. Pin along the gown's seams to fit the fabric close to your body. Do not pull it too tight, however, as a too-tight dress can be as unflattering as a baggy one. Keep the seams symmetrical to ensure that the gown still lays correctly when you wear it. Sew along the pinned seams and trim away the excess seam salvages. Replace the lining and hand stitch it invisibly into place.

2. Shorten a hemline by turning up the existing hem once or twice, depending on your requirements. Sew the hem in place by hand to the gown's lining with a diagonal stitch, as this will keep the stitches hidden from the outside. Press the new hem with a cool iron to ensure that the edge is crisp.

3. Lengthen a hemline by removing the existing hem stitching with a seam ripper. This should give you an inch or two, which may be enough for your requirements. However, if it is not, ask your gown manufacturer for a yard of extra fabric and lengthen it with a new panel across the hem. Begin this process by measuring the circumference of the gown's existing hemline and recording your findings. Add 2 inches to the measurement for seam allowances and divide the sum in half. Cut two panels of fabric, each measuring the width of the resulting figure. The length will depend upon how much additional fabric you require. Sew the two panels together along the short seams with right sides together to create a band of fabric. Sew the band to the gown's hemline, keeping right sides together. Press the new hemline with a cool iron to create a crisp effect.

4. Remove any unflattering waistline detailing. Though some detailing, such as ruching, can slim a waistline, others, such as pleats at the high waist or busy corsages can obscure a thin waist and make it appear bigger than it is. Remove any corsages from the waistline and replace them at the shoulder, hip or in your hair. To remove empire waist pleats, detach the bodice from the skirt across the front and turn the dress inside out. Try the dress on and replace the pleats with slimming princess seams. Pin these vertical seams in place and sew over them with your sewing machine. Sew the bodice and skirt back together, keeping right sides together.

Tips & Warnings

• If you intend to alter your gown before the bride's wedding, discuss your plans with her before you do so.

References

• Start Sewing; The Best Way to Alter a Dress or Top So it Fits; Angela Armes; July 2010