How to Find a Tailor for Bridesmaid Dress Alterations
Purchasing a bridesmaid's dress off the rack often requires alterations to achieve a flattering fit. An experienced tailor knows how to pin and mark the dress for sewing alterations and how to work with fabrics and embellishments used on wedding attire. A tailor can shorten or lengthen the hem and alter the fit of the bodice. Find an experienced tailor as soon as possible to ensure alterations are completed in time for the wedding.
- Try on the dress and decide what needs to be done before the alterations. A simple hem can be handled by a less experienced tailor; however, a difficult hemline with details requires specialized skills. Altering the bodice or waistline requires an experienced formal wear tailor. Remember to bring the shoes you will wear with the dress to fittings.
- Ask the bridal salon staff for recommendations. Most bridal stores staff a tailor or have a list of local, experienced tailors who specialize in wedding apparel. Look for a tailor who is accustomed to working with specialty fabrics and embellishments found on bridesmaid dresses.
- Look in the phone book under the headings “tailor” “seamstress” or “alterations” for local options. Ask to see some of their work when you meet with them. Avoid tailors who are inexperienced in formal dress alterations. A person who mostly performs hems on pants may not be able to handle complicated projects.
- Ask friends, family and neighbors for names of tailors they use. Some of the best tailors work from small studios in their home and rely on referrals instead of expensive advertising or storefronts. Schedule a consultation with a tailor who comes highly recommended from someone you know.
- Search the Internet for tailors in your area. Enter the keywords “dress alterations” or “tailors” into your Internet search engine. Search local, review-based websites that allow customers to rate their experience with tailors in your city. Contact the people with experience and proven track record with wedding attire.
- Look for a list of alteration experts at dry cleaners or specialty dress stores. Confirm their skill level before you hire them to alter your bridesmaid dress. Ask for a list of references or photos of before and after alterations if you question their experience.