The Real Talk About Wedding Dress Alterations in 2025: A Moondance Bride's Guide

Hey Moondance besties! Let's dive into a super important topic that every bride needs to know about - alterations! While we help you find your dream dress at Moondance Bridal, we want to make sure you're fully prepared for the next step in your dress journey: making that gorgeous gown fit like it was made just for you.

What to Budget for Alterations in 2025

Real talk: alterations are a crucial investment in your wedding look, and prices have evolved over the years. While every dress and every bride is unique (and that's what we love about our Moondance brides!), here's what you can typically expect to invest:

Basic Alterations: $300-500

• Simple hem adjustments

• Taking in or letting out the sides slightly

• Bustle addition

• Basic strap adjustments

Standard Alterations: $500-800

• Multiple areas needing adjustment

• Adding or removing cups

• Complex hem adjustments

• Multiple-point bustle

• Moderate bodice adjustments

Complex Alterations: $800-1200+

• Major resizing

• Working with intricate beading or lace

• Structural changes to the bodice

• Adding or removing sleeves

• Custom changes to the design

Pro Tip from Your Moondance Besties

While we don't do alterations in-house, we've built amazing relationships with skilled local seamstresses who know exactly how to handle our designers' gowns. We're always happy to recommend trusted professionals who'll treat your dress (and you!) with the care you deserve.

Timing is Everything

Here's something every Moondance bride should know: book your seamstress early! For 2025 weddings, we recommend:

• First fitting: 2-3 months before the wedding

• Second fitting: 3-4 weeks before

• Final fitting: 1-2 weeks before

Money-Saving Tips from Your Moondance Family

Want to keep alteration costs on the lower end? Here's what we've learned from our brides:

• Consider your height when choosing a dress (it can affect hemming costs)

• Be realistic about major changes - sometimes it's more cost-effective to choose a dress closer to your vision

• Keep your wedding shoes ready for all fittings

• Try to maintain your current weight through the alteration process

Remember, our Moondance mission is to help you look and feel absolutely amazing on your big day. While alterations are a separate service from our boutique, we're always here to guide you through the process and answer any questions about working with our recommended alteration specialists.