Tell Me About Fittings!

Fittings? Of course you have LOTS of questions! Well here are some tips and information for you BEFORE you even call for your first appointment.

1) After I buy the dress, when should I make a fitting appointment?

You will want to choose a time period fairly close to the wedding in case there are weight gain/loss issues that might come up. Typically, a salon or home seamstress wants to see you for the first fitting approximately 6-8 weeks before the wedding. If they are a high volume shop and you are marrying in a busy time such as Spring (Prom/Easter/1st Communion/Graduation), they may suggest that you "get on the books" sooner so they can handle the volume and you are fitted in a timely manner.


2) How many fittings will I have?

Typically, there are two fittings, occasionally, three if the work was not to your satisfaction or new issues arise such as a pregnancy or significant weight change or heel height change. The second fit is most often scheduled 3-4 weeks prior to the wedding.


3) Am I supposed to bring someone with me?

You certainly don't have to, but many brides like to have these moments shared with their MOH, their Mom, etc., and it does help to have someone learn how to work your bustle when it is created and to give you moral support if you are less than happy with how you look at that first fit.


4) What about picture taking during the fitting?

AFTER you have purchased the dress, the majority of salons will welcome a camera being brought to the fitting area. This si another good reason to bring someone with you-to capture those moments when you are being "pinned up".


5) Am I supposed to bring anything with me for the fittings?

YES!!! Be sure to purchase these items BEFORE your fitting. It is vitally important that you are fitted in everything you plan to wear with the dress (minus veil and jewelry) for the fittings. The shoes you plan to wear must be worn to check for hem length and also for bustle height. The bridal slip is also important because the hemline is affected by the "lift" that a slip gives the gown. The bra is equally important because the bodice is the most crucial fit of all-it must be a correct fit and whether you choose to go with sewn-in cups, a corset, a strapless or long line bra, each one will cause the bodice to fit differently, so make sure you bring with you whatever undergarments you want to try with the dress.


6) Should I eat before my fitting?

Yes, eat a SMALL meal... the fitting can take some time and you don't want to feel lightheaded due to lack of food. Don't over indulge or you will fit a lot more snugly in your gown than you planned and can get uncomfortable.


7) How long will I have to stand there for my fitting?

Your first fitting will take the longest amount of time. Approximately one hour should be allowed for a gown. It can be a bit less if you need only minor alterations and it can be more if you have a full tulle gown with many layers that need to be pinned up for hemming or if you have alot of reconstructive work needed. You will want to consider when you choose your heel height-that you will be standing for a peiod of time and may be uncomfortable. One tip is to keep your knees bent and occasionally shift your weight to keep good circulation going. You can tell your bridesmaids to expect approximately a half hour depending on what alterations they need.


8) Anything else I show know before I go?

Yes! Go with a happy attitude and try not to be too stresses about how it go... your seamstress is there to help you feel the prettiest you can feel and it can cause some communication problems or personality clashes if the bride is weary of what to expect, how things will be done, if they will be done to her satisfaction, etc...

As a seamstress who fits an average of 25 clients a week, I can tell you to ask questions if you have concerns, realize that the fitter is there to help you and enjoy all the aspects of this incredible time in your life!