Off The Rack

tiffanyfc

I bought a dress off the rack for a VERY good price, but the dress is a size 12 and I'm more of a size 6. The bridal salon where the dress is from says that they can alter the dress to my size. I would really appreciate any advice on a few concerns I have, which include:

1. There is a lipstick stain from another person trying on the dress of which I didn't see until I got home and the bottom of the dress is slightly dirtied from its dragging on the floor. Is the cleaning of this dress their responsibility or is it something I have to take care of after they have altered the dress?

2. Would the dress look like a size 12 changed in to a size 6, with the bustier still looking like a size 12, or are seamstresses able to make it look as if I ordered a brand new dress in my size? 

I just want to know if I should forget this dress and buy a brand new dress without the hassle. Has ANYONE been through the same experience?!  

dewingedpixie

The cleaning of the dress depends on the salon. My salon cleaned my dress and is storing it till next year as part of the sale price.

As to sizing that depends on the cut of the dress and your seamstress. My dress was a 2 I'm a formal size 0. The middle of my dress had to be pulled in 4 inches at the fitting. I tried the dress on in early april before I start my spring training so I was at my fullest in my waist. I will be married in october next year when I'm typically my leanest due to fall racing and summer training. They anticipate pulling 5 inches from the waist, 1-2 from the bust and 2 from the hips.My seamstress will be the dress designer or her apprentice and I was well assured they could easily take the fabric out of my dress and make the alterations I wanted plus the hemline which due to the fabric of the underskirt has to be done at the waist. The seamstress has handled many many petite women. I chose a dress that is very tight through the mid thigh area. So this depends on the dress, and the seamstress. A good seamstress can do wonders but if the dress is certain cuts that wont matter.

itzMS

Usually, Off the Rack means "As Is". So you will be responsible for all cleaning and alterations.

I'm not really sure what would prompt you to buy a dress 3 sizes too big. However, your best bet would be to go to your Local Board, get suggestions for private seamstresses in your area and go that route. Otherwise, perhaps look on some of the sites like Ebay or Preownedweddingdresses to see if you can find the style in your size. The pricing of another used dress may actually be cheaper than altering a dress 3 sizes smaller.

HobokensFury

Normally dresses can not be taken in 6 sizes without losing structure and shape so you will probably not achieve the same look as the original dress.  Think about it- you're losing half the dress.  I know the bridal salon said they could but let's be honest- they were trying to make a sale and get you to pay their alterations prices. Even if it can be done all of your savings will be eaten up in alterations costs. I would suggest taking it to an outside seamstress now to see if it can actually be done that way you have time to find a new dress if you have to.

Liane28

If you find a good seamstress, she should be able to fix all of this for you without any problems.
I'm doing the same and I'm not worried

cayharrop

Yes, buying a dress as is means you are responsible for stains, tears, etc.  some salons have the ability to clean or fix onsite and others don't have those resources, so you will need to find a reputable cleaner and good seamstress who can fix just about anything.  But be prepared to pay these people to fix your dress if you want it done right.  Hope this helps you!!

Scaponigro

Are you a street size 6 and the dress is a size 12? Often a bridal size 10 is the same as a street size 6 so it would only be one size too big. Did you try it on?

Tabbie11

I also bought a sample, which was 75% off... Even with the alterations its an amazing score, most dresses need some alterations of sort. It was a size 12, an im norm a 4... An im not worried, I had my first fitting an the streamstress said its going to no issue with the structure. They are doing just a spot cleaning, to have it fully cleaned is my responsibility. If u need to take it to be cleaned, start alterations early so u have time to clean after.

tiffanyfc

Thank you all for your advice, it was all very helpful!!