Can a bridesmaid dress that's too small be altered without making it look different?

Question

I gave the measuresment to the bride and got back a dress that is too small. I don't know how the measurements resulted in their selection of this size. I could lose weight around the waist to fit into it, but I can only zip it up 1/2 way as it is. I'm already pretty thin too-- the dress is by an esteemed designer and is in a size 4.

I don't want to be an odd ball at the wedding by getting alterations that will make the dress look different. I'm clueless about bridal dresses so I'm not sure what's possible? How do I pick a place to get the alterations done when I don't know anyone around the new area I'm living in to give me a referral?

I'd appreciate ANY advice (even if its a web link or search terms I can use for the internet)

Thanks in advance!!

Answer 1

If you've ever gone to a seamstress, she will tell you that anything can be made smaller, but not everything can be made bigger. There is only so much extra fabric on smaller items, especially bridal type dresses. Unfortunately it sounds like you might have to get another dress and have that one fixed to fit the way it should. You can sell the size 4 online (say ebay or something) and get your money back, though, since you've never even worn it!!

Answer 2

I know a little about sewing as my mother was a seamstress. Something called gussets can be sewn in on the sides of the top part of the gown. To explain they are strips of the same fabric that are taken maybe from excess hem material and sewn in ato give more room to sides and waist. As far as getting it done, go into a good dry cleaning establishment and ask if they have a dressmaker. If not, then look into your yellow pages and I am sure you will find a dressmaker. Also ask around. My question is why can't you go back to the place where you bought the dress and ask if they have a dressmaker and have her put in the gussets. Also do a web search for local people in your area. But asking around is the best bet, as everyone knows a dressmaker. Good Luck

Answer 3

You can't take the dress out; there isn't enough material in the seams. You could order extra fabric and have it inserted by a seamstress, but that does change the look of the dress.

You need to get in touch with the bridal shop that ordered the dress. Compare your measurements with the measurements of the dress. It is possible that they ordered the wrong size, in which case they will exchange the dress. But it's also possible that you gave them the wrong measurements (very easy to do if you're measuring yourself). In that case, you need to either order the extra fabric or buy a new dress.

Answer 4

Talk to the bride and ask her if the dress is exchangeable first! If it's an esteemed designer, surely they have other sizes?

If not, you're looking at an expensive tailoring fix, but the alterations should be able to be made in the back, so that your dress looks the same in pictures, with anything different being only visible from behind.

Answer 5

see if you can order one in a larger size. wedding dresses and bridesmaid dresses run funny. i was measured for a bridesmaid dress 1 month after i got married and according to them i went up 3 sizes in a month!! i was so pissed becasue i know there was no way i had gained that much weight in a month. it also depends on the stlye and the maker of the dress. if the design is made for people with no shape to their bodys, and you are some one with curves, that could be a problem. you could also just contact the store where you ordered it and see what they can do. some of the time dresses have extra fabric sowen into them that can be let out if needed.

Answer 6

First off, I would check to see if the measurements you gave, are what the dress truly is. Maybe the dressmaker goofed things up. If so, then you go back to her to fix this, and/or possibly make another dress. You may also be able to let the seems out a little. There won't be much to let out, but anything would help. Maybe if you go to a really good dress maker, she would be able to put small panels on the sides to help you breath easier. I hope this helps. Good luck.

Answer 7

The same thing has happened to one of my bridesmaids (exchange was not an option because they were special order and took 3 months to come in!) but she went back to the store they bought them from and they could take the side seams out on hers. When the did that it fit perfectly and they made some other adjustments. I would call around and ask about getting it let out and check on pricing. By the sounds of things you shouldn't need much done.

Answer 8

your best bet is to take the dress to a professional taylor