Let's face it. Most of us aren't the ideal "beauty
queen" size that's often set forth in magazine or
television ads. We're not super models, but each of
our bodies is beautifully designed in a unique way.
What does this mean when it comes to buying prom
dresses? Alterations! If you need alterations for
your prom dress, don't worry. Many girls have to get
alterations for various reasons. Maybe the waistline
is a little too short or too long. Maybe the hemline
is too long. Perhaps the bust area needs to be taken
up or expanded. Alterations are a natural part of
buying a prom dress, wedding dress, or any other
type of formal wear, so you're not alone.
Even if
you've taken all the right measurements in all the
right places, alterations may very well be a
reality. Or, even if you've shopped around for the
perfect material and colors for you, and even if
you've tried on a similar dress before buying online
- you might have to get alterations no matter how
much you've tried to avoid it.
Think of eveningwear alterations as actually
custom tailoring a prom dress to get the perfect fit
for you. This doesn't mean your body has an awkward
size or shape. It simply means that prom dresses are
often designed (or molded) to fit a certain body
type, and no two persons are exactly alike.
When buying eveningwear online, take accurate
measurements beforehand to reduce the number of
alterations needed later. You'll save time and money
by requiring fewer alterations. This is money you
can spend on prom dress accessories such as jewelry,
shoes, hairpieces, make-up, gloves, etc.
Alteration Tips for Formal Dresses
Prom dresses are defined by their material,
style, and ornamentation. The first thing to do if
you need alterations is to find a tailor that knows
how to work with the specific material of your prom
dress. For instance, if your prom dress is made of
silk, you'll want an experienced tailor that knows
all about working with silk material. Choose a
seamstress that specializes in prom dress
alterations for the best results. If your prom dress
has special accents such as embroidery, beadwork,
lace, floral patterns, or ruffles, be sure to ask
how the alterations will affect the overall design
of the dress. Some types of alterations can cause
the patterns to look uneven, but an experienced prom
dress tailor will know how to work around it.
Get a quote in writing before leaving your dress
with the alterations person. A seamstress should be
able to give a definite dollar amount before getting
started. Alterations for formal dresses can be
expensive, but getting a price up front will help
you avoid a higher price later if complications
arise.
For your alteration fitting, wear your prom shoes
and the undergarments you plan to wear with your
dress. This will allow the seamstress to obtain
appropriate measurements without guessing. Take
photos of your prom dress (front and back) before
leaving it with the seamstress. This eliminates any
possible accusations against you if the seamstress
were to cause damage to the dress while it's in her
care.
Many online stores sell gorgeous prom dresses,
homecoming dresses, gowns, formal dresses, and other
types of eveningwear. Use your measurements to find
a prom dress with the perfect fit - and don't fret
too much if you do happen to need alterations!
