Alterations
Learn about dress alterations, fittings, timing and how we can help make your dress fit just right.
At a Glance
Almost every wedding dress needs alterations to achieve the perfect fit. Bridal gowns are ordered to the closest standard size, then tailored specifically to your body for a beautiful, comfortable fit.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
One of the biggest misconceptions we hear is, "If I order my size, I shouldn't need alterations." Even if your gown fits beautifully when it arrives, small adjustments are almost always needed. Over the past 50+ years, we've found that alterations are what truly transform a beautiful dress into your dress. Hemming the length, adjusting straps, taking in the bodice, or creating the perfect bustle all help ensure your gown fits comfortably and looks its absolute best on your wedding day. One advantage of shopping at Wendy's Bridal Columbus is that our experienced in-house alterations team works closely with our stylists. Together, they help ensure every detail is tailored to you from your first fitting to your final appointment.
Did You Know?
Wedding dresses are ordered based on your measurements, but they're intentionally designed to be professionally tailored for your unique shape.
At a Glance
Most brides should plan for approximately 3 months for alterations. Starting early helps ensure there's plenty of time for multiple fittings. For custom bridal gown changes, brides should plan for roughly 5 months.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Many brides are surprised to learn that alterations happen over several appointments rather than all at once. This allows your seamstress to make adjustments gradually and ensure everything fits perfectly before your wedding day. Your timeline may vary depending on the gown, the alterations needed, and your wedding date. That's why we recommend ordering your gown early and scheduling alterations as soon as your stylist advises. Our in-house alterations team works closely with each bride throughout the process, helping create a comfortable fit while preserving the beauty and design of your gown.
Did You Know?
Even simple alterations often require multiple fittings to achieve the best possible fit.
At a Glance
Alteration costs vary depending on the gown and the work being done. During your consultation, your alterations team will review exactly what's needed and provide an estimate.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Every bride—and every dress—is different, which is why alteration costs vary. Some gowns may only need a hem and bustle, while others require more detailed work like reshaping the bodice, adjusting sleeves, or customizing straps. At Wendy's Bridal Columbus, we believe it's important for brides to understand what alterations involve and why they're such an important part of creating the perfect fit. During your alterations consultation, our experienced team will walk you through the recommended changes and answer any questions you have. See our average price ranges for alterations here.
Did You Know?
The complexity of your gown's fabric, lace, beading, and construction often has a greater impact on alteration costs than the size of the dress.
At a Glance
Your first alterations appointment is where your seamstress evaluates how your gown fits and creates a personalized alteration plan based on your body, your shoes, and your wedding-day vision.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
This appointment is exciting because it's often the first time you'll see your gown begin to fit specifically to you. Your seamstress will carefully assess the bodice, length, straps, sleeves, and overall fit while discussing any custom changes you've chosen. You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions and understand what to expect during the remainder of your fittings. One thing our brides often appreciate is that our stylists and in-house alterations team work together throughout the process, creating a seamless experience from saying "yes" to walking down the aisle.
Did You Know?
Bringing your wedding shoes—and the undergarments you plan to wear— helps your seamstress achieve the most accurate fit.
At a Glance
In many cases, yes. Depending on your gown, alterations can often personalize your dress with details like sleeves, straps, neckline changes, bustles, or other custom touches.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
One of the most rewarding parts of the alterations process is helping brides create a gown that feels uniquely theirs. Over the years, we've helped brides add off-the-shoulder straps, detachable sleeves, adjust necklines, create custom bustles, and make other thoughtful changes that reflect their personal style. Because our alterations team works exclusively with bridal gowns, they understand how to preserve the integrity of the dress while making changes that enhance both the fit and the overall design.
Did You Know?
Sometimes a simple customization—like adding sleeves or changing a veil— can completely transform the overall look of your wedding dress.
At a Glance
A bustle secures your wedding dress train after the ceremony, making it easier to walk, dance, and enjoy your reception. Most gowns with a train will need one.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Many brides don't think about a bustle until alterations begin, but it's one of the most important finishing touches to your gown. After your ceremony and photos, your train is lifted and secured with discreet buttons, ribbons, or hooks so you can move comfortably throughout your reception. Our in-house alterations team creates a bustle that complements your gown's design while keeping it secure and comfortable. Whether your dress has a simple chapel train or an elaborate cathedral train, we'll help you choose the bustle style that works best for your gown and your wedding day.
Did You Know?
Your maid of honor or another trusted helper should attend your final fitting so they can learn exactly how to bustle your gown before the reception.
At a Glance
In most cases, yes. Wedding dresses can often be taken in and, depending on the gown and available seam allowance, may also be let out.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
One of the most common concerns we hear is whether a gown can still fit if your measurements change after ordering. The good news is that bridal gowns are designed with alterations in mind. Taking a gown in is usually straightforward. Letting a gown out depends on the dress's construction, fabric, and available seam allowance. During your alterations appointment, our experienced seamstresses will evaluate your gown and explain the options available to achieve the best fit.
Did You Know?
Every designer constructs gowns a little differently, so the amount a dress can be let out varies from one gown to another.
At a Glance
Small body changes are common during wedding planning. Your alterations appointments are designed to fine-tune your gown so it fits beautifully closer to your wedding day.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
It's completely normal for brides to worry about changes in their body before the wedding. Whether you've started a new fitness routine or simply experience natural fluctuations, your alterations process allows your gown to be adjusted for the best possible fit. We encourage brides to maintain healthy, realistic expectations and avoid making major body changes after alterations have begun whenever possible. If your size changes significantly, simply let your stylist or seamstress know so they can recommend the best next steps. Our goal is always the same—to make sure you feel confident and comfortable walking down the aisle.
Did You Know?
Most bridal gowns are altered much closer to your wedding date than when they're ordered, helping accommodate normal body changes.
At a Glance
Your wedding shoes determine the final length of your gown, making them one of the most important items to bring to your alterations appointments.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
The height of your shoes directly affects where your gown will fall. Even a small difference in heel height can change how your dress moves and where it should be hemmed. We recommend bringing the exact shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day whenever possible. If you haven't chosen them yet, let your seamstress know so they can help you plan your fitting timeline accordingly. At Wendy's Bridal Columbus, we'll also recommend bringing any shapewear or undergarments you plan to wear to help achieve the most accurate fit.
Did You Know?
Changing your shoes after your gown has been hemmed could affect the way your dress fits and moves on your wedding day.
At a Glance
Most brides have two to three alterations appointments, although the exact number depends on the gown and the alterations being completed.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Every wedding dress is unique, so your alterations schedule is customized to your gown and your needs. Your first appointment focuses on evaluating the fit and pinning the necessary changes. Additional appointments allow your seamstress to refine those adjustments and make sure everything fits perfectly. Your final fitting is especially exciting because it's when you'll see your completed bridal look come together. It's also the perfect time for your bustle demonstration and any final questions before your wedding day. Our in-house alterations team takes pride in making sure every bride leaves feeling confident, comfortable, and ready for one of the most memorable days of her life.
Did You Know?
Many brides say their final fitting is the moment their wedding truly starts to feel real.
At a Glance
Yes! Lace and beaded wedding dresses can often be altered, but they require extra care and experience to preserve the gown's original design.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Many brides worry that intricate lace or beading can't be altered, but that's rarely the case. The key is working with a seamstress who understands bridal construction. Our in-house alterations team regularly works with delicate Chantilly lace, detailed appliqués, intricate beadwork, and modern designer fabrics. Depending on the alteration, lace may be carefully removed and reapplied by hand so the finished gown looks seamless. After decades of specializing in bridal gowns, we've learned that patience and precision make all the difference. The goal is for no one to notice the alterations—only how beautifully your dress fits.
Did You Know?
Some lace patterns are individually repositioned by hand during alterations to preserve the gown's original design.
At a Glance
To achieve the best fit, bring your wedding shoes, undergarments or shapewear (if you're wearing them), and any accessories that could affect the fit of your gown. Payment in full will be due during your first appointment as well.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Preparing for your alterations appointment is simple, but bringing the right items makes a big difference. We always recommend bringing the shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day, along with your veil, sleeves, straps, or other accessories if they could affect the overall look. If you're planning to wear shapewear or a specific bra, wearing those items during your fitting helps your seamstress tailor the gown more accurately. At Wendy's Bridal Columbus, our alterations team will guide you through every step, so you always know what to bring and what to expect before each appointment.
Did You Know?
Even changing to a different pair of shoes after your final fitting can affect the length of your gown.
At a Glance
Yes! Your wedding dress should allow you to move comfortably throughout your ceremony and reception while still looking beautiful.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
One of the things we remind every bride is that you'll be wearing your gown for many hours—not just standing for photos. During your fittings, our seamstresses don't simply check how your dress looks. They'll encourage you to sit, walk, raise your arms, and move naturally so they can make adjustments that improve both comfort and fit. Our goal isn't just for your dress to look incredible—it's for you to feel comfortable hugging loved ones, walking down the aisle, and dancing the night away.
Did You Know?
A properly fitted wedding gown should feel secure without making it difficult to breathe, sit, or enjoy your celebration.
At a Glance
Your final fitting is where everything comes together. You'll try on your completed gown, confirm the fit, learn how to bustle your train, and leave feeling ready for your wedding day.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
This is one of our favorite appointments because it's often the first time brides see their dress exactly as they'll wear it on their wedding day. During your final fitting, your seamstress will make sure every alteration has been completed, answer any last-minute questions, and demonstrate how to bustle your train. We also recommend bringing the person who will help you get dressed or bustle your gown so they can learn alongside you. After working with thousands of brides, we've found that this appointment gives brides tremendous confidence heading into their wedding week.
Did You Know?
Many brides tell us their final fitting is when everything finally feels real—and they can truly picture themselves walking down the aisle.
At a Glance
A professionally pressed wedding dress helps ensure your gown looks fresh, polished, and photo-ready for your wedding day.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Even the most beautiful gown can develop wrinkles while being transported or stored. That's why professional pressing is such an important final step before your wedding. At Wendy's Bridal Columbus, pressing is performed with bridal fabrics in mind, helping protect delicate lace, beading, tulle, satin, and other specialty materials. Every fabric responds differently to heat and steam, so bridal gowns require specialized care. We also share tips for transporting and storing your gown after pressing so it arrives at your venue looking just as beautiful as when it leaves our boutique.
Did You Know?
The way a gown is hung, folded, and transported after pressing can make a big difference in keeping it wrinkle-free before the ceremony.
At a Glance
Store your wedding dress in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, pets, and moisture. Leave it in its breathable garment bag until it's time to get ready.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
One question we hear often is, "Can I take my dress out to look at it?" While it's tempting, we recommend handling your gown as little as possible after your final fitting. Our alterations team carefully prepares your gown so it's ready for your wedding day. Keeping it in its garment bag helps protect delicate fabrics, lace, and beading from dust, wrinkles, and accidental snags. If you have questions about storing your gown at home, we're always happy to walk you through the best way to keep it looking beautiful until your wedding.
Did You Know?
A breathable garment bag helps protect your dress while allowing delicate fabrics to breathe. Plastic bags should never be used for long-term storage.
At a Glance
Transport your gown in its garment bag, hang it whenever possible, and avoid placing heavy items on top of it during travel.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Whether you're getting married across town or traveling to another state, protecting your gown during transportation is just as important as storing it properly. At Wendy's Bridal Columbus, we provide guidance on how to safely transport your gown based on your travel plans. For local weddings, hanging the gown securely in your vehicle is ideal. For destination weddings, we'll share tips to help keep your dress protected throughout your journey. We've helped thousands of brides prepare for weddings near and far, and a little planning goes a long way in keeping your gown looking its best.
Did You Know?
Many brides are surprised by how well wedding dresses travel when they're packed and handled correctly.
At a Glance
It depends. Light steaming may be appropriate for some gowns, but delicate fabrics, lace, and beading require extra care. When in doubt, ask your bridal boutique before steaming your dress.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Every fabric reacts differently to heat and steam, which is why we encourage brides to be cautious. While a handheld steamer can safely remove light wrinkles from some gowns, others require a more delicate approach. When you pick up your gown, we'll provide guidance on caring for your specific dress and answer any questions about steaming or wrinkle removal. We want you to feel confident caring for your gown while avoiding unnecessary risks. If you're ever unsure, it's always better to ask than accidentally damage a beautiful fabric or embellishment.
Did You Know?
Holding a steamer too close to delicate fabrics or appliqués can damage them, even if it only takes a few seconds.
At a Glance
Your pickup appointment is your opportunity to inspect your gown, review care instructions, and make sure you feel completely prepared for your wedding day.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Picking up your wedding dress is one of the most exciting moments of your bridal journey. Before you leave, we'll review your gown, accessories, and any final details to help you feel confident heading into your wedding. If your gown has a bustle, we'll make sure you understand how it works, and we'll answer any last-minute questions about caring for your dress before the big day. At Wendy's Bridal Columbus, we want every bride to leave feeling excited, prepared, and ready to enjoy every moment leading up to "I do."
Did You Know?
Many brides choose to bring a family member or member of their bridal party to their pickup appointment so someone else is familiar with the gown and bustle before the wedding.
At a Glance
Many bridal boutiques offer alterations only for gowns purchased through their store, while others may alter outside gowns depending on availability and scheduling. It's always best to ask.
Stylist Insight from Wendy's Bridal Columbus
Altering a wedding dress involves much more than standard tailoring. Every designer uses different construction techniques, fabrics, and embellishments, so it's important to work with a team experienced in bridal alterations. If you're considering alterations for a gown purchased elsewhere, reach out as early as possible. Availability often depends on the time of year and the boutique's alterations schedule. No matter where your gown was purchased, we encourage brides to choose an experienced bridal alterations specialist who understands the unique craftsmanship of wedding dresses. Please call our boutique at 614-336-9100, to see if we are accepting outside bridal purchases for alterations.
Did You Know?
Bridal alterations calendars often fill several months before peak wedding season, so scheduling early gives you the most flexibility.
Still have questions? Head back to our Resource Center or contact our styling team.