Annd.... it didn't zip up!! :(

girllygirll · November 2009

Hey ladies,

This is sadly my first post... I lurked for a while!

My dress came in earlier than expected... YAY... but when I went to try it on... the zipper wouldn't budge from my hips! Its a size 2..... we should have ordered a 4!

We don't have to do the fitting yet... the store said we could wait till the date gets closer.... possibly this spring but I'm so sad and scared!

The lady also said there was some extra fabric by the zipper that could let it out a bit... but it didn't look like a lot! She must have seen my disapointment even though I tried to shrug it off because she even said that worse comes to worse they can always make it into a corset! I REALLY don't want to change it to a corset.. it will take away so much from the detailing in the back!

I will admit that I gained about 5 pounds.... and I feel a little bloated....

Has anyone ever gone through this??

AmeliaMarie · November 2009

Was it the store's fault that the wrong size was ordered? If so you should definitely make them order the correct size. If it was your error, I would still see if they can exchange it.

girllygirll · November 2009

I was in-between sizes but closer to the 2 than the 4 so they said that was what I should I order.... and so I did. I don't think I can send it back as it was ordered from the manufacturer and I paid the deposit.

I really love it... there isn't anything wrong with it... just that I either gained enough weight to not fit into it or its made smaller than we anticipated. I'm just worried that its not weight gain but like my ribcage... lol there is nothing I can do if its my bone structure!

Just wondering if anyone had their dresses let out before? How much fabric is really needed for a one size- up? I'm just afraid the amount of fabric currently on the dress will still be not enough for it to zip and they will have to alter to a corset.

I can lose the 5 pounds... but anything less than that and I'll be a walking skeleton at this point!

AmeliaMarie · November 2009

Gosh, it still sounds to me like the store should be more helpful. If I were you, I really wouldn't want to wait until spring to see if they could take it out enough. I've never had to have a dress let out, but I think I'd ask to begin alterations early. I'd at least want them to be certain it would be possible.

jeanieg · November 2009

oh dear.

any chance you can wear a corset UNDER the dress?

good luck.

lemongirl · November 2009

Don't panic. Ask if you can meet with their seamstress soon and she'll be able to tell you exactly what can be done. Most wedding gowns CAN be let out to increase one size. The seamstress will be the best person to tell you what can be done and she might have a good solution that no one else has mentioned. Be sure to tell her that you do not want a corset back, too.

Vikki2pay · November 2009

If the store can't exchange the dress., I think adding a corset back would work out well.

girllygirll · November 2009

I thought about purchasing spanx or something underneath... but I've never worn them so I don't know if they are thick and may add fabric or will actually remove inches?

I did a rough measurement last night after posting, of my bust, waist and hips and compared it to the designer's sizing chart... and I'm up 2 inches in the waist, my bust is not an issue as its below and my hips are exactly the size of the 2. So I gotta figure out my waist and maintain the hips!

The only reason we decided to wait till February/March was because I have another dress coming in for the reception. That one is corset back so I'm not worried, but we figured if we waited till then, then maybe I can get my figure under control and get both done at the same time. However I'm starting to worry and am thinking maybe I should be getting this done now!

This is a picture of the dress and the back :

http://www.bestbridalprices.com/images/enzoani/2009/large/Belgrade.html

I'd hate to put a corset.... but if I must I must! She seemed confident that there was enough fabric by the zipper on each side that it could be let out without having to do so.

jeanieg · November 2009

that's great that she thinks it can be let out! about spanx, YES, they really do take off and not add on. they're not thick at all, but they're made to squeeze in your excess weight.

dianejo · November 2009

I had the same problem, except the dress fit every where but the bust. The dress zipped but was very tight and I actually tore the seam on the zipper the day of my wedding. (no good)
Your dress should have a 1/4- 1/2 inch seam allowance on both sides which could give you up to an inch of extra material. Wait till it gets closer to your wedding date and see what you can do about losing the 5lbs you put on. After that have them start the alterations - you should be fine. Ask the seamstress to let the dress out as much as possible before getting the corset.

jenn.daniel · November 2009

Your dress is gorgeous!

I've never used spanx, but I would guess they'd more more comfortable than a corset under your dress. Your best option is probaly to have the waist let out. I really like the back as it is.

Catwoman708 · November 2009

Unless you plan on letting it out AND losing weight, then get that dress exchanged ASAP!

Five pounds should not make that much difference. The most they can let it out would be maybe an inch or so, total, and control undergarments can only do so much. Besides, you are already a small size, so they will be hard to find anything other than "decorative" undergarments.

You almost always have to get larger sizes in wedding gowns than your regular dress size, that's a given. And if you are in between sizes you should always order the larger size, because it's much easier to take a dress in than to let it out.

Most bridal shops will let you exchange or "trade up" dresses, unless they have posted policies that state ALL sales final, and NO exchanges or refunds.

It was really irresponsible of the employee who told you to order the smaller size. Don't ASK if you can exchange it, TELL them you will need to exchange the size.

You might have to pay additional S&H charges or a restocking fee, but do NOT let them tell you to wait until closer to the wedding date to "fix" it. It will be too late by then! If they don't work with you, then it's better to be out the deposit, than the whole cost of the dress and still not have a dress that fits.

Catwoman708 · November 2009

If worse goes to worst, do what you can to let the dress out as much as possible, lose that 5 pounds, and take a diuretic in case it's water retention type weight gain. Midol or Diurex might help a tiny bit.

Plus a corset type undergarment, or spanx might help. But by the time you do and buy all that, and spent the money on alterations, you could have just exchanged the dress.

[Deleted User] · December 2009

5 lbs given the date to your wedding is not alot to loose. Alot of girls loose weight during the planning process just because of the extra stress.

After getting engagded I lost about 7 lbs on my 5'3'' frame so I am now around 110lbs. My dress in alterations still feels kind of tight so I am hoping to loose just a little bit more to have some eating space. The girls on my board keep saying it will happen inevitably.

5lbs isn't alot. Just stay healthy.

FutureMrs.McC · December 2009

I disagree with the poster who said 5lbs won't make enough of a difference. That would be true if you were a large girl but obviously you are small. I'm sure if lose the weight it will fit. They can probably add an inner corset to the dress. It won't change the look, will suck you in and you won't have to bother with other undergarments. I do think you should have alterations look at it now though to double check incase you need to order a new dress.

cukimerrydoll · December 2009

You have enough time get trim and lose those 5 lbs! My wedding date is 1 week after yours (yay!), and I'm definitely still trimming down.

Did you just try it on in the past few days?? I've been super bloated from Thanksgiving, so that might be a contributing factor too, especially if the main problem was in the waist.

Who did you speak with at your fitting? If it was someone in sales, they may be worried about the exchange process. But typically in a fitting, you would be working with an alterations specialist. They would absolutely know how to get your dress let out.

When did you order the dress? Was is around August? If so, then you were probably in similar shape to where you will be for your wedding (that's how we planned it when I was first trying on).

And Spanx are awesome, even if you don't really need them. They help keep things smooth under everything. And they have a lot of variety with sizing too, so I'm sure you'd be able to find something small enough.

Look into it, and definitely check with alterations.

The good news, you still have time. I just ordered my dress about a week and a half ago for my August wedding.

LisaAndJared · December 2009

Stores can ALWAYS take back the dress as long as it is unaltered. This is what I learned in my dress shopping. I paid extra to have my dress made to fit, hallow to hem and all. The dress came it and it was TOO SHORT!!! They kept showing me spots where they could bring down the skirt, but that's not the point. They sized me and the dress should have fit!!! After saying that we did not want it to be altered like that since we paid to have it fit, they finally backed down. Now, a whole new dress is being made. Don't back down, especially if it was their measuring!! Even if they tell you at first that they can't, they can always return the dresses.

PDXMartha · December 2009

one size isn't the difference between zipping up and not. sounds like a mistake in measuring you and then some bad advice!
I'm actually extremely surprise they actually RECOMMENDED the smaller size - dresses can be altered several sizes down but really can't be let out much at all.
Whatever happens, good luck!!! And until then, perhaps it's salads, veggies, and lots of water and tea for you! Cut back every indulgence and increase those workouts! (or see if they can swap dresses. Unfortunately, it boils down to you ordered that size, not them (though they recommended it, they did not make the decision) and while they CAN be nice and take it back or exchange it, I don't believe they are legally required to.)
I'd write up a crappy review for them online. Hopefully they don't give poor advice to other brides-to-be.

mrsstiles0810 · December 2009

Were you at all bloated when you went for your dress? I went to pick up my dress during "my special time" and was barely able to zip it up over my chest. Like pp, did you want to order the larger size? I ordered my dress from the largest section of my measurements (chest) and plan to take it in at the spots that are too big (although, when bloated, it is not too big

Rather than losing weight, I would advise getting a corset or spanx so you do not have to stress about losing weight and looking too little, especially if the weight loss will be more noticeable in your reception dress.

Kaikaleanae · December 2009

You are now voiceing my greatest dress fear...

I would meet with the seamstress ASAP. Unless she is 100% confidant she can let out the dress (NOT, "Well, I think if we do this, and you lose weight..."), don't get it altered. Because they said order the smaller size, I'd go with PP and get them to exchange it. Yes, ultimately you ordered the dress, BUT it is their job to make sure you order it right. Telling you to order the smaller dress, when it is industry standard to order the larger one, is their mistake, not yours. Most bridal shops have a policy which allows you to return an unaltered dress.

Dejinna · December 2009

I am getting married next November and I am also worried about my dress. The sizing is right, but the dress is a little too snug. I am thinking the sample was a little stretched out from all the others that tried it on and my ordered dress is not. The seamstress told me it could be let out if needed. I am going to loose just a few pounds and see if that works first before I spend a bunch of money letting my dress out for no reason. If that does not work they said they can let it out an inch with the seam material. I was told a little goes a long way. Ask them to show you what they can do before making it a corset. You ordered your dress without a corset for a reason. No need to change it if they can do a little sewing. Good luck.

jesunm2008 · December 2009

Im sorry, but the people at the store should have been smart enought to order the bigger size! Especially since most wedding dresses run a little on the small side. Since they said to order a 2 and it doesnt fit, I say they order you a new one in a 4 so that you can just alter it down to fit you perfectly. Your dress should fit you...not the other way around. They should make sure you are happy, you are paying a lot of money for this dress and this is supposed to be the happiest day of your life. Tell them you want a 4, it was their error and you do not want to compromise the look of your dress so that it will fit you.

Good Luck!!

csspencer · December 2009

I have a similar problem with a bridesmaid dress for a wedding i'm in in July. When i went to try on the dresses, there were no samples in my size, so i tryed on the size smaller which was snug, and the size larger which was way too big. the idiot sales person told me to order the larger size and not wear a long line bra, or spanx. actually he filled out the form when i was speaking to my mother...i think he was afraid i wouldn't order the dress till they have my correct size in stock to try on and then he would lose his commission. when the dress came in, it was way too big, even without my spanx or long line bra. so the store re-ordered it in the correct size. they apologized and agreed it was their fault.
so, to make a long store short...tell them you want the correct size, that they should have guided you correctly.

frecklered · December 2009

I wouldn't worry too much. Go get your self a pair of spanx and ease up on the extra calories. But don't do anything drastic to yourself or the dress, it'll just add more stress to the game. I know the holidays are coming around and we all tend to eat more especially when it's comfort food but I would just cut back and add some exercise to your routine. Good luck and I'm sure you'll look beautiful!!

sararv03 · December 2009

First of all, your dress is BEAUTIFUL!! I completely understand your frustrations. Coming from a small frame person 5lbs CAN make a world of difference. On the other hand I think the corset idea is not bad just to be safe. I think it would give it a sexy appeal to it. Better to have that and fit well and look llike it fits than be stuffed in a dress and be completely uncomfortable/self conscious. Good Luck, you'll look great!

PRLJMB · December 2009

Okay...so I went to my first fitting and mine was a bit tight as well.. I had a corset with me to put under it and believe it or not it made it even tighter, so I wouldn't recommend that. I am losing a couple pounds that I gained in the stress of planning everything now..but I feel your pain. I would start a good workout routine or amp it up if you are already on it. Also, I am very small as well a size 2 with the same exact issue! I was bummed too like OMG i can't possibly lose anymore weight I'd look sick! But...moving on...have you tried Dr. Rey's shapewear? It is super super thin and It sucked me in quite a bit for a dress I wore last summer...a combination of the two plus if you have to let it out I'm sure they can do it just right and I think you should be ok!

jjax214 · December 2009

That dress is absolutely stunning...

My advice...if you aren't a runner, become one. 5 pounds is not hard to shed and there are many many ways to do some without looking like a walking skeleton (I am in the same boat - if I lose weight my family gets really upset and asks if I've been eating at all and my fiance watches what I eat like a hawk).

Running will build up LEAN muscle mass - you'll lose inches and keep the weight and muscle the same...toned is good, anorexic is bad.

If you hate running then walk....walk, walk, walk EVERYDAY...change little things like parking farther from stores/the office and ALWAYS take the steps...I work at a gym and am totally underselling us but seriously, take 15 minutes out of your day and run up and down your house steps. Cut out junk food and only eat healthy snacks...

Thats the best advice I can give. Good luck!

smiley920 · December 2009

When i ordered my dress i was also in between sizes, but my store ordered the dress in the larger of the two sizes. it is easier to take a dress in than to let a dress out! If I were in your situation I would try a couple of things. First (after yelling at the store), i would try to lose the 5 pounds. I would also invest in some good shapewear, like Spanx or Wacoal. that may be enough to get that zipper up past the point where it is stuck. good luck!

AmeliaMarie · December 2009

I'm really not a fan of all the posts telling you to lose the weight. If you already wanted to lose it, fine, but the dress should fit you, not the other way around.

ks3pink · December 2009

I can't believe people are telling a girl in a size 4 (or 2 it seems) to lose more weight! The store gave you bad advice they should (and if it were me would) exchange the dress tomorrow! You shouldn't have to kill yourself to get into a wedding dress, especially when you're already small.

amberdawn1985 · December 2009

Hey girl! im so relieved to see ur post! I am going thru the EXACT same situation, so i feel your pain/frustration! It should be one of the happiest days when you get your dress in...and instead it turns into anything but a happy ordeal. I was FUMING the day i got my dress and when the dress people told me to wear spanks and do this and do that, it didnt help the situation. I went home and googled this problem and realized through research that every bridal store simply 'suggest' or 'recommends' a size, they dont tell you what size to get..so that makes it pretty much impossible to get any sort of a return or different dress. Its a buisness.
dont worry tho.. They told me at the wedding shop that my dress can be let out 1/2 an inch..thats not much but at least it will give a lil wiggle room. It sounds like our dresses have the same thing with the back..i do NOT want to alter the back as it is my fav. Can the sides of your dress be let out? my dress has a seem in the inside of the dress where im going to let it out. And yes I too was trying my dress on when 'Aunt Flow' was in town and was bloated and bigger then usual, size 2 is tiny and by no means should u loose any weight..we are both the same size and im sure our dresses would fit each other way differently. Change the dress, not your body. My friend is a seamstress and reassured me that dresses can be let out up to one to two sizes and im sure, no im positive, yours will work out also. Your gunna look beautiful!!

Annd.... it didn't zip up!! :(

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