Your first fitting is a big moment. It’s often the first time you’ll see your dress since you chose it, and the first time it starts to become truly yours. It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous, especially if you’ve never had clothes altered before.
So here’s exactly what happens when you come to see me, and how to get the most from the appointment.
What to bring
The more of your wedding-day outfit you bring, the more accurate the fitting will be. Please bring:
- Your dress – in its garment bag, with any loose pieces such as straps, belts or sashes.
- Your wedding shoes. This is the single most important thing. Your hem is measured to the exact height of your heel, and even a centimetre makes a difference.
- The underwear you’ll wear on the day – bra, shapewear, or anything else. These change the way a bodice sits, so we need to fit over the real thing.
- Your veil or headpiece, if it’s going to affect the back of the dress or the length of the train.
- Photos or ideas of anything you’d like to change, such as a different neckline or added sleeves.
- One trusted person, if you’d like support. A mum, sister or best friend is lovely to have there. A large group can make it harder to focus on how you feel.
What happens during the fitting
We start with a chat, not a tape measure. I’ll ask about your wedding: the venue, the season, how much dancing you’re planning, and anything about the dress that doesn’t feel quite right.
Then you’ll put the dress on and I’ll pin it to your body, section by section. We’ll look at:
- the bodice – is it secure without being tight?
- the straps and neckline – do they sit flat and stay put?
- the waist and hips – does the dress follow your shape?
- the length – can you walk without catching your toes?
- the train – would a bustle help you dance and move around the reception?
I’ll ask you to move around: sit down, raise your arms, take a few steps. A dress that looks perfect standing still isn’t much use if you can’t hug your guests.
Before you leave, we’ll agree what work will be done and book your next fitting.
How long does it take?
Allow about an hour. Some fittings are quicker, but your first one is not something to rush.
Questions worth asking
- How many fittings will my dress need?
- When will my dress be ready to collect?
- How should I store the dress at home before the wedding?
- Who should I bring to my final fitting to learn the fastenings and bustle?
Don’t worry about…
I hear a lot of brides apologise during fittings – for their bodies, for asking questions, or for changing their minds. Please don’t. Every body is different, and every dress needs some work to fit perfectly. That’s exactly what I’m here for, and nothing you say will surprise me after twenty years.
Whether your dress came from a boutique, online, or from your family, I’d love to help make it yours. Book your consultation today and we’ll get your first fitting arranged.
