The store where I purchased my dress has a flat fee of $225 for all alterations required. My dress will need to be shortened slightly(no beading or detailing in that area), be bustled, and have the bodice taken in(lace-up style) . Is this $225 price a rip off or a good deal? Can you give me a ballpark range of what alterations could cost in the Chicago area? I visited one tailor who refused to tell me any sort of price until I brought the dress to him. But if I take the dress away from the store where I bought it I doubt that I can go back to them for alterations.
While I can't provide you exact pricing of what bridal alterations cost in the Chicago area, I can say that if the location where you bought your gown is offering a flat fee of $225, that is reasonable and not out of line. Bridal alterations can run high, especially, when you buy your gown at one place and take it to another.
I hope this helps. Rhonda Allen, Bridal Consultant New Beginnings Weddings
Stupidly, I did not discuss alteration costs when I purchased my gown nor when I went for the fitting. I just received a call from the tailor that I will need to pay $300 for my alterations. My dress cost me $692 so I couldn't believe that my alterations were that much. I am still in shock and I am contemplating calling to demand a breakdown of the cost but I think that I'm probably overreacting. What should we be expecting to pay for alterations?!
(This post was
edited by rnm2005 on Apr 3, 2005, 12:34 PM)
Unfortunately, as I mentioned earlier, I can't tell you what you can expect to pay. Perhaps, I should explain why these costs aren't out of the ordinary.
Whenever someone alters a Bridal Gown, in essence they have to take it apart and re-stitch it. Given the detail and delicate nature of these beautiful creations, and the time consuming nature of alterations, you can expect to pay at least what you have been quoted. Also, a Bridal Gown is no ordinary piece of clothing. Hence, you shouldn't expect the alteration costs to be the same as with non-Bridal attire. Also, the longer you wait to have your alterations done, the higher the cost.
Much success to you, Rhonda Allen, Bridal Consultant New Beginnings Weddings
Alterations
