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Alterations Expectations: Your Ultimate Bridal Alterations Guide for your Wedding Dress!

At White Lily Couture, we believe on your wedding day that your gown should feel like it was made just for you; sitting on your body beautifully, reflecting and enhancing your beauty, and ensuring that you look and feel your best! While we don’t offer in-house alterations, but we provide a list of trusted local seamstresses based on positive feedback from previous brides. You're free to use anyone you’re comfortable with.

Whether you're a Brisbane bride or travelling from afar, we’re here to guide you with warmth and care. Here’s everything you need to know about wedding dress alterations and how we’ll support you each step of the way.


We have created a playlist of essentials based on common questions, with the help of Nikki from Skilled Stitches.

Does White Lily Couture offer wedding dress alterations?


While White Lily Couture doesn’t offer alterations in-house, we empower our brides with a carefully curated list of highly skilled bridal seamstresses in Brisbane and surrounding areas. This list is based on consistently positive feedback from our past brides, ensuring you have options that you might like to go for when getting your dress altered.


When should I book my bridal alteration appointment?


The ideal time to book your bridal alteration appointment is as soon as possible, ideally at least three months before your wedding day. Seamstresses can book up quickly, especially during peak wedding seasons. We highly recommend looking at your wedding dress ETA email that we send out and booking in your appointment with your chosen seamstress ahead of time.


What are common wedding dress alterations?


Most brides require essential alterations to ensure a perfect fit. Standard services typically include:


- Hemming the gown to match your height

- Adding a bustle for your reception

- Adjusting the bust or waistline for a tailored look


Additional changes, such as reshaping the neckline, adding sleeves, or altering the silhouette, are also available and may require a separate quote.


How much do wedding dress alterations cost?


While pricing can vary, standard alterations generally range from $250 to $350. More complex adjustments may exceed $1,000, depending on factors like the number of layers, fabric type, and embellishments. You'll receive a personalised quote from your chosen seamstress at your first fitting.


How many sizes can a wedding dress be altered?


Completely depending on the style of the wedding gown, a dress may be altered down three sizes, and sometimes can be let out one size. This depends of factors including the style, fabric and how the gown is made. Certain styles, such as strapless gowns, are much more flexible in altering the style. We've witnessed brides undergo significant body changes and still achieve a beautiful, tailored fit, thanks to the expertise of skilled seamstresses.

 

Can I order extra fabric for custom details?


If you’re considering custom touches like sleeves, straps, or extra lining, we can assist in sourcing more fabric. Common materials such as tulle or basic linings are usually available. However, many designer gowns use exclusive fabrics that may be difficult to find after purchase. If you are particular about matching exact materials, it’s best to order any extra fabric at the time you buy your gown.

 

Ready to start your bridal experience? Book your appointment today.

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At White Lily Couture, our team is all about kindness, knowledge and professionalism. We aim to build relationships with our brides to better understand how we can help.