Your wedding dress is probably the most important garment you’ll ever have altered — and almost every dress needs something, whether it’s a hem over layered tulle, a bodice taken in, or straps adjusted so nothing slips during the first dance. Here’s how wedding dress alterations work at our Canberra City shop, based on the hundreds of gowns that have come through our door.
When should I book my alterations?
As early as you can — ideally 2–3 months before the wedding. That leaves room for:
- First fitting (8–12 weeks out): we pin the dress on you with your actual wedding shoes and undergarments, and quote the full price before any work starts.
- Second fitting (3–5 weeks out): you try the altered dress; we fine-tune anything that changed.
- Final pickup (1–2 weeks out): a last check, then the dress goes home with you, pressed and ready.
Closer to the day? Don’t panic — we regularly handle shorter timelines. Call us on (02) 6262 8988 and we’ll tell you honestly whether it’s doable.
What do wedding dress alterations cost in Canberra?
Every gown is different, but these are our real starting prices:
| Alteration | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Shortening, single layer | from $50–$70 |
| Each extra layer (tulle, lining, lace) | +$20–$30 |
| Taking in bodice / sides | quoted at fitting |
| Strap, sleeve or neckline adjustments | quoted at fitting |
| Zip replacement or repair | see our zip replacement service |
| Adding a bustle | quoted at fitting |
We always confirm the total price at your first fitting — no surprises. For everyday garments, see our full alteration price guide.
What should I bring to a fitting?
- Your wedding shoes — hem length is set to the exact heel you’ll wear
- The undergarments or shapewear you’ll wear on the day
- The dress itself, plus any veil or accessories that affect the look
Fittings happen in store at Shop 5, 143 London Circuit, Canberra City — no appointment needed for a first look, though calling ahead guarantees a fitting room is free.
Common wedding dress alterations we do
- Layered hems — shortening tulle, lace and lining without losing the shape of the gown
- Bodice fitting — taking in or letting out so the dress stays up without tugging
- Straps and sleeves — shortening, tightening, or converting strapless to strapped
- Bustles — so your train lifts off the floor for the reception
- Zips and buttons — replaced or reinforced so nothing gives way mid-celebration
We also alter bridesmaid dresses, mothers-of-the-bride outfits and grooms’ suits — see bridal party alterations and suit alterations.
Why brides come to us
We’re a family-run tailor shop in Civic with over 20 years of alteration experience. Every gown is pinned on you by an experienced seamstress, altered by hand in our shop (nothing is sent away), and checked with you before it leaves. Read our 5-star Google reviews, then visit us — we’d love to see the dress.
Quick answers:
- How long do alterations take? Usually 2–4 weeks depending on the work; rush jobs are often possible.
- Can you make a dress bigger? Often yes — letting out seams or adding panels; bring it in and we’ll assess it.
- Do you alter second-hand or vintage gowns? Yes, regularly. Older fabrics just need gentler handling, which is exactly what hand-finishing is for.