How to Compare Dressmakers and Bridal Alterations

When searching for a wedding dress, the two main options are generally to buy a gown from a bridal boutique and have it altered to fit your body or to work with a dressmaker to create a custom-made dress. There are several benefits to both options, so it is up to you to decide what will be best for you and your budget. There are a few things to consider as you compare dressmakers and bridal boutique alterations.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Work with a dressmaker if you are on a tight budget but are hoping for a designer look. Finding a dressmaker who can copy a design from a catalog or magazine image will generally cost about half as much as a designer gown would if it was purchased in a store.

2. Ask to view a portfolio or pictures of previous clients and garments, whether you are considering working with a dressmaker or a bridal boutique. If you plan to work with a dressmaker, you will want to confirm that she has significant experience creating bridal garments. At a bridal boutique, ask to see pictures that compare the same dress on different clients and get an idea of how effective the store's alterations are in customizing gowns for different body types.

3. Take into account the experience that most bridal boutiques have with alterations of the gowns they sell. Though alterations at bridal boutiques are generally more expensive than working with a dressmaker, it is often worth the extra money to work with an expert seamstress. In addition, most bridal boutiques agree to take financial responsibility for any mistakes or damage that may occur during the alterations, which may not be the case when working with a dressmaker in a small, independently owned shop.

4. Ask the dressmakers and bridal boutiques you are considering for initial estimates of the full costs of your gown and all the related expenses and compare prices. Consider additional costs that may be added if you change your mind about embellishments or other styling elements at the last minute.

5. Purchase a different dress from a dressmaker or bridal boutique as a trial to see how well the garment is customized to fit you and to learn more about what working with the seamstress is like. For example, if you will be attending a wedding or other formal event as a guest, have a dressmaker or seamstress make or fit a dress for you. This is a good way to do a test run with the seamstress before you trust her with the task of working on your one and only wedding gown.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask for references from previous bridal clients for both bridal boutiques and dressmakers. A well-known and experienced designer or seamstress should be able to provide the names of satisfied clients.
• Verify each bridal store and dressmaker's refund-and-cancellation policy for all wedding-dress orders. Though you will probably not need to cancel your order, it is possible that there could be mistakes. When signing a contract, be sure that you are aware of your liability for paying for the dress, regardless of any problems with your wedding gown.