Please be advised that the prices set out here are a guide only and will vary according to each gown. We therefore advise that you bring in your gown for a more accurate quote. All other alterations not listed will be individually priced. The prices quoted are general and should be used for guidance only. Intricate complex or heavily beaded gowns will carry additional charges which will be advised at fitting. It is important you bring with you the underwear and shoes you will be wearing on the day to get a perfect fit.
Average wedding dress alterations cost
Wedding dress alterations cost $150 to $600 on average, with most brides spending around $450.
Wedding dress tailoring costs $30 to $40 per hour. Bridal gown alterations require 2 to 3 fittings over 2 to 3 months.
National average cost | $450 |
Minimum cost | $50 |
Maximum cost | $1,000 |
Average cost range | $150 ~ $600 |
Wedding dress and gown alterations price list
Bridal gown alteration costs approximately $150 to $600, depending on the complexity and the seamstress’ time and rates.
Alterations that involve delicate fabrics and embellishments increase the cost.
Most brides need a hem, bustle, and side-seam work to take it in for a perfect fit.
Service | Average cost |
Bodice alterations | |
Add bra cups | $20 – $40 |
Corset – Replace zipper or buttons with corset closure | $100 – $200 |
Reshape neckline | $40 – $120 |
Take in/let out the side seams | $50 – $280 |
Sleeve & shoulder alterations | |
Sleeves – Add cap or long sleeves | $100 – $200 |
Sleeves – Alter or taper | $30 – $100 |
Straps – Add or adjust | $20 – $80 |
Shoulders – Raise or lower | $40 – $70 |
Skirt alterations | |
Hem | $70 – $360 |
Add Bustle | $30 – $200 |
Take in/let out the skirt width (skirt seams) | $40 – $120 |
Train – Remove or shorten train | $30 – $250 |
Embellishments | |
Add belt or sash | $20 – $40 |
Beading – Repair or add beadwork | $30 – $40 per hour |
*Price depends on the number of layers, the size of the skirt and amount of lace and beading involved.
Additional bridal gown alterations prices
Additional alterations cost $5 to $100 for improvements such as adding bra straps, buttons, a zipper, slits, or steaming.
While most alterations improve the bridal gown’s fit or style, some improve the gown’s comfort.
Service | Average cost | Purpose |
Add bra straps | $15 – $45 | Adds support |
Add buttons or a zipper | $40 – $85 | Adjusts size or makes dressing easier |
Add modesty panel | $20 – $60 | Makes the dress less revealing |
Move/add snaps, hooks-and-eyes (each) | $5 – $20 | Adjusts size or makes dressing easier |
Open or close slit (per layer) | $25 – $40 | Allows more freedom of movement |
Shorten belt | $20 – $30 | Removes excess belt length |
Steaming | $40 – $100 | Removes wrinkles |
*Price depends on the number of layers, the size of the skirt and amount of lace and beading involved.
Custom bridal veil cost
A custom bridal veil costs $50 to $400, depending on the length, number of tiers, fabric quality, and embellishments added.
The cost of labor to add embellishments like heirloom lace or pearls from your mother’s wedding dress is $30 to $40 per hour.
Custom veils by length | Average cost |
Fingertip (32-48 inches) | $50 – $180 |
Ballet/waltz (49-71 inches) | $50 – $220 |
Sweep/Floor-length (72-87 inches) | $50 – $250 |
Chapel (88-105 inches) | $70 – $350 |
Cathedral (106-126 inches) | $100 – $400 |
Add embellishments (crystals, pearls, antique heirloom lace) | $30 – $40 per hour |
*source: fash.com