What dresses should you get altered and why they need altering

Five dresses you should get altered

Whether it’s for a wedding, prom, cocktail party, or everyday wear, finding the perfect dress is only half the battle. The other half is ensuring it fits you perfectly. Alterations transform off-the-rack dresses into customised garments that flatter your unique shape and elevate your confidence. But how do you know which dresses need altering and why? Here's a guide to help you decide.

1. Formal dresses

Formal dresses, like wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, and prom gowns, are often designed with standard sizing in mind. These sizes rarely account for the nuances of your body, such as your height, proportions, or curves. Alterations can refine the fit, ensuring that your dress enhances your figure rather than highlighting ill-fitting areas.

Key adjustments

Hemlines - Long dresses often require length adjustments to prevent tripping or dragging.

Waistline - A nip at the waist can define your silhouette.

Bust fit - Cups or bodices may need tightening or loosening for comfort and support.

Straps - Strap adjustments prevent slippage or digging into your shoulders.

2. Everyday dresses

Even casual dresses can benefit from a touch of tailoring. Minor adjustments can take a dress from feeling “off” to looking like it was made just for you. A slightly baggy shift dress can turn into a chic, body-skimming outfit with the right alterations.

Key adjustments

Side seams - Taking in or letting out seams creates a closer fit without compromising comfort.

Necklines - Modifying a neckline can make a dress more flattering for your face shape or more appropriate for your style.

3. Vintage dresses

Vintage dresses are treasures, but they’re often tailored to body standards of the past, which may differ from modern fits. Alterations can modernise a vintage piece while preserving its charm.

Key adjustments

Zippers or closures - Replacing old fastenings ensures durability.

Sleeve changes - Adjust puffed or wide sleeves to a contemporary style.

Fit adjustments - Resizing a vintage dress to your measurements ensures comfort and wearability.

4. Dresses for life events

Dresses for significant events—like maternity dresses, graduation dresses, or dresses for anniversaries—often require tailoring to accommodate life changes or personal milestones. For instance, maternity dresses might need temporary adjustments to adapt to a growing bump.

Key adjustments

Expandable panels - Create space for growth without compromising style.

Shortening or lengthening - Adjust lengths to suit changing occasions.

5. Dresses that almost fit

If you’ve ever found a dress that almost fits, tailoring can make it perfect. Common culprits include dresses that are too tight in one area and too loose in another.

Key adjustments

Overall resizing - Transform a dress that’s one size too large or small.

Tapering - Adjust sleeves, skirts, or pants for a sleek, tailored look.

The importance of dress alterations

Getting dresses altered isn’t just about fixing flaws—it’s about enhancing your wardrobe. A properly tailored dress elevates your confidence and ensures you feel comfortable and polished. Remember, it’s not your body that needs to conform to a dress; the dress should conform to you.

Take the time to assess which dresses deserve alterations, and you’ll see how these small changes make a big difference.

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