How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?

If you've ever wondered what wedding dress alterations cost, you've come to the right place. Here's the sitch: The dress you say "yes" to in the wedding dress salon likely isn't the exact same dress you'll wear as you walk down the aisle. Chances are, your wedding gown will go through a number of changes from the time you buy it to when it's ready for you to wear it. According to Melissa Lynn Oddo, owner of deMelis Atelier and founder of Stitched Collective, "when wedding dresses are ordered, it is atypical that a person will fall exactly into the designer's size chart so alterations to one of more areas of the dress are to be expected." She goes on to explain that at the very least, most everyone will need some sort of hem and a bustle as well.

But just how much do these wedding dress alterations cost? Well, we're breaking down the answer to that question here. According to Melissa Lennie, owner of Sew Creative Bridal, "wedding dress alterations cost more than basic alterations on your everyday wear for several reasons," (we'll dive into those reasons later). Stick with us as we reveal the average price ranges for some of the most common dress alterations, then head to The Knot Vendor Marketplace to discover your nearest alterations specialist.

In this story:

• How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?
• Average Cost of Wedding Dress Alterations by Type
• Does It Cost More to Alter a Wedding Dress?

How Much Do Wedding Dress Alterations Cost?

According to Oddo, the average cost of alterations is typically between $700 to $1000. This price range reflects what she considers to be standard alterations, which would include a hem, bustle and some type of adjustment to the top or bottom of the gown. "Sometimes we have clients that fall below this window when they need fewer alterations or have simpler gowns, but it could also cost more if we are dealing with multiple pieces, complex changes, or high-level details," she says. Oddo explains that the cost of alterations can also be impacted by geographic area, cost of living and the atelier's level of expertise.

While you may not be able to predict the exact cost of alterations for your specific gown before you speak with a professional, we recommend factoring this estimated price range, along with your wedding dress cost, into your wedding budget early on in the planning process. That way, you won't be hit with unanticipated expenses in the event that your dress needs modifications.

Average Cost of Wedding Dress Alterations by Type

It should come as no surprise to learn that the different types of alterations will have different costs. Oddo explains that, "more difficult construction or details like beading can have a huge impact on the time it takes to deconstruct and reconstruct a garment." The total scope of work and the amount of time it will take to work on a gown are both factors that go into determining the cost. While the total cost of wedding dress alterations will vary for each to-be-wed, we've broken down a few of the most common services and their price tags to help you get a better sense of what you might pay.

Cost to Hem a Wedding Dress

Most wedding dresses come in a standard length, allowing nearlyweds to hem them to their unique measurements. Lennie reveals that the cost to hem a wedding dress usually ranges from $125 to $450. "Some gowns have simple hems, while others with lace and trims can be a bit more time-consuming and therefore will cost more," she shares.

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Cost to Take in a Wedding Dress

If you want your dress to best flatter your figure, you might decide to take it in or out on the sides. This process is similar to getting your dress hemmed, but it involves the bodice. According to experts, taking in a wedding dress should cost you between $100 and $200. However, just like with hemming, the price could be more if your dress features intricate details, such as lace or beadwork.

Cost to Add Straps to a Wedding Dress

Strapless looks can certainly be sexy, but they're not always the most secure. Thankfully, adding shoulder straps to a wedding dress is a fairly simple alteration. The cost to add straps to a wedding dress should be no more than around $200. Of course, if you're looking for something a little more detailed (ie: adding lace or beading to those straps), you can expect the price to reflect the additional time and labor the project will require.

Cost to Add a Bustle to a Wedding Dress

Wedding dress bustles are used to secure the train of your gown allowing you to walk (and dance) without tripping over fabric. Some dresses come with a bustle built in, while others may need to have one added. According to Lennie, "a bustle averages between $75 to $175, depending on how many layers your dress has, and the type of bustle you choose." She goes on to explain that gowns with many layers may even require multiple bustles, which will come at an additional cost.

Cost to Add a Corset to a Wedding Dress

Many wedding gowns come standard with a zip-up closure on the back, however, there are a number of reasons why you might choose to have the zipper swapped out with a corset. For one, corsets allow you to adjust the bodice of the dress to your liking. Let's say you need a little extra breathing room when it comes time to hit the dance floor. A corset closure can easily be loosened. Adding a corset to the back of your wedding gown is a standard alteration which typically costs between $100 and $300.

Does It Cost More to Alter a Wedding Dress?

As we mentioned earlier, wedding dress alterations will likely cost you more than alterations to your everyday attire. They may also cost more than bridesmaid dress alterations and suit alterations, and there are a few key reasons for this. Lennie explains that modifications to wedding gowns should only be handled by an experienced wedding dress seamstress. "That seamstress usually has many years of expertise and therefore the rate will be higher to compensate them appropriately," she says. "Bridal gowns are also constructed in a way that is very different from everyday clothing–there are many layers, seams and fabric types that go into each gown," she adds. However, Lennie reveals that the main reason for the difference in cost is the amount of time that is required to alter a gown compared to altering everyday wear.