Silly question about alterations

MrsCross2B

I've ordered my gown (sorry about the poor pic quality), which I LOVE, but I have a concern about the bustline I never thought about until now.  When they did the measurements, they explained that they order the size of the gown that matches the biggest measurement (on me that would be my hips) and alter the gown down to fit the smaller areas of the body.  The bodice of my dress is covered in lace and jewels, will it still be possible to alter that down without messing up the details?  I'm sure they would have mentioned it if it wasn't, I'm just overthinking everything. (as usual) 

jessNlane52804

My dress is very similar, so needless to say, I love that dress! Is the dress designed to be fitted in the hips? Many times the hip measurement is ignored if the dress is loose in the skirt. Mine fit through the waist, so we didn't talk about how that would be taken in when I ordered, but it is a bit large in the bust and the shop told me that it is a very simple alteration. I'm no expert on alterations, but in the past when I have had dresses altered, the seamstress will take it in from the zipper area.

MrsCross2B

It is fitted in the hips......so that determined the size of my gown since I am a bit of a pear.  LOL  I've ordered it as a corset back instead of a zipper back so I am hoping that will help with customizing the fit a bit more.  If all else fails, I'll stuff my bra!  LOL! 

StarStruckDreamer

Your dress is beautiful! I LOVE it!

Your question is not stupid, don't worry. A lot of people have the same question when it comes to alterations. Luckily you ordered it in a corset back, as that should make it easier to pull in on top and possibly avoid the need for alterations all together!

My mother has been a seamstress for almost 30 years now and has altered a TON of dresses. When she has to take in a bodice with beading (and a corset back) she will take off the beading near the side seams first, then take in the dress the required amount at those side seams, she'll then sew it back up and re-bead if it is needed (although often only a few will need to be put back on as the fabric that is taken in obviously won't be rebeaded).

It really isn't a huge deal at all, as long as you have someone with experience doing it

Best of luck to you!

MrsCross2B

Star Struck- Thank you for the reassurance.  I'm glad to know that this sort of alteration is done all the time, and that there's a process for doing it that won't ruin my dress.  I know I am in good hands with the salon I purchased from.  I just tend to stress over little things sometimes.  And blow them up in my mind to something huge.   A little reassurance goes a very long way.  Thank you!! 

jessNlane52804

I see what you're saying with the mermaid thing. I agree, with a corset back you will probably be fine. That dress is going to be really stunning.

MrsCross2B

Thanks Jess!  I really appreciate it! 

gigia

You know, my dressmaker told me that being a seamstress takes courage!  And I think she was right.  Most people look at a wedding gown I think and the thought of taking it apart to rebuild it is so frightening to us, but not to a good seamstress.  My MOH had a wedding dress that had 100's of Swarovsky Crystals on it and she had to have quite a bit taken in.  It took a little extra time, but I swear you'd never be the wiser.  Just make sure you get references on the seamstress/tailor that you use.

MrsCross2B

Gigia, I bet you are right.  To us non-seamstress type girls it feels on par with performing brain surgery, but to someone with knowledge and experience it is an everyday thing.