Most brides budget for the dress and forget the alterations, then find out at the first fitting that the dress needs a hem, a bustle and a slightly smaller bodice. Alterations are almost always part of the cost of a wedding dress, so it helps to know what drives the price before you’re standing in front of the mirror.
Why bridal alterations are quoted, not listed
Two gowns that both “need a hem” can be completely different jobs. One is a single layer of satin and a quick job. The other has a lining, three layers of tulle and a lace edge that has to come off and go back on by hand. That’s why we quote bridal alterations after seeing the dress on you, instead of using a fixed price list.
For simpler dresses, like a civil ceremony dress or a reception dress, our regular dress prices apply: shortening starts from $30 and taking in the sides starts from $35. Full prices are on our Pricing page.
What each alteration involves
Use this to estimate whether your dress is likely to be at the simpler or more involved end:
| Alteration | Simpler | More involved |
|---|---|---|
| Hem | One layer, plain edge | Several layers (each is hemmed separately), lace or beaded edge that’s removed and sewn back by hand, horsehair trim |
| Bustle | Short train, one or two pickup points | Long or cathedral train, several points, a French (under) bustle |
| Take in sides or bodice | Plain side seams | Boned or corseted bodice, lace that runs across the seam, beading along the seam |
| Straps and support | Shortening existing straps | Adding new straps or sleeves, adding boning or cups |
| Let out | Enough seam allowance to work with | Little or no seam allowance, may need extra fabric panels |
Most gowns need two or three of these. A hem and bustle together is the most common combination.
How to budget
Get a quote once we’ve seen the dress on you, not before. Photos help, but the price depends on how much the dress needs to change on your body, and that only shows up at a fitting. Leave room for one follow-up fitting as well. Small adjustments after the first round are normal, especially if your shoes or undergarments change.
Timing matters too. Book your alterations 4 to 6 weeks before the wedding so there’s time for a second pass. We cover the full fitting timeline in Wedding Dress Alterations in Toronto.
Cleaning and alterations together
If your gown needs cleaning before the wedding, get it cleaned first and altered after, so the final fit is done on the dress as it will look on the day. Cleaning starts from $200 and is covered in our wedding dress cleaning cost guide.
Book an appointent, or get a quote
The quickest way to find out what your dress will cost is to call us. Tell us what the gown is like and what it needs, and we’ll give you a rough idea and book a fitting for an exact quote.
You can also bring your gown to either location for a fitting, or book a pickup. More on what we alter is on our Alterations page.
