Very few individuals can wear formalwear or bridal gowns as purchased, the proper alterations make these special fashions fit. Exquisite restyling of heirloom gowns is offered, as is incorporating sentimental pieces into your ensemble, via headpiece, veil or flowers.
Cocktail Suit Skirt Hems (tapered with a lining and a vent) is $30. Sleeves shortened on a Cocktail Suit begin at $20.
To make Garments more fitted by taking in at Side, Sideback, Shoulder or Back Seams begins at $12 per Seam, additional cost for Lining, Topstitching and Intersecting Seam.
Any alteration involving the zipper closure will be an additional $15.
Altering the length of Formalwear gowns such as Prom or Maids begins at $40. Costs depend upon the amount of Layers, width of Skirt Circumference and Details
A traditional Bridal Gown hem begins at $100 - Ballgown hems without a train begin at $150
Bustling a gown, whether Traditional or French, is $12 per point.
Bust Cups $20 - Straps shortened $20 per pair
Altering Horizontal Seams to redesign or due to Pregnancy is charged at $45 per hour.
Steaming is available and a price will given when the dress is seen.
Custom Veils can be designed especially for you.
Full Slips, Mermaid Slips and Hoop Slips are available for purchase.
A note for the Bride:

As a formally trained seamstress and designer I have worked in the alteration and custom design field for over twenty years.

My enjoyment of working with non-traditional brides has led me to develop a line of gowns that adapts to the visions of a modern bride and her party. Your fabric and silhouette choices combined with artisanal details and bespoke tailoring will result in an exceptionally unique and personal dress, one worth treasuring forever.

If you are fortunate enough to have access to a family heirloom, consider having the gown re-created to fit or update the style. Honor your forbears by incorporating the heirloom into a headpiece or accessory.

Whether you are considering the social and environmental impact of your gown purchase, trying to avoid conspicuous consumption, or just desiring to play up your best features, utilizing the talents of your local designer will further make your wedding day exquisite.

Appointments for custom design should be made six months prior to your wedding date. Alterations on ready-to-wear should begin six weeks prior to your wedding date.

A consultation regarding the viability of wearing an heirloom gown should be made as early as possible, in order to keep remaining options available. Consultations are held in a private relaxed setting, there is no fee for a first consultation. Appointments are necessary.


In my opinion:

Big thighs can't wear a straight or mermaid style, potbellies need to stay away from bias cut gowns. Halters are the hardest to fit and the hardest to wear all day.

If a salon sales associate wants to order a size for you without actually measuring you, find a different salon. Breast implants will limit your design choices and make it harder to fit properly. Corset bodices will create a crease at your armpit that is not flattering, and there is nothing a seamstress can do about it.

If you order extra length on your train for additional drama going down the aisle, know that you will also be suffering some additional drama in the fitting room. Bustling an extra long train can be awkward and expensive.