Formal dress alterations cost $60 to $200, depending on the fabric and what changes need to be made. The most common dress alterations are hemming the length, taking in the side seams, adding bra cups, and shortening the straps. More complex alterations like adding a corset back or increasing the entire dress size cost more.

Delicate fabrics must be hand-stitched, and each dress layer hemmed separately, increasing costs. Chiffon, taffeta, and satin skirts require a labor-intensive rolled hem which takes more time and costs more.

Heavily embellished gowns also require special care and stitching. In fact, many embellished skirts are shortened from the waist to maintain the hemline design which requires a more experienced seamstress to work with the delicate beading.

Tipping for dress alterations is not expected, but always appreciated. A general recommendation is 10% to 20% for exceptional service. Another option is to present your seamstress with a gift card to a local shop or restaurant as a gesture of thanks.

Many dress shops and bridal salons offer standard dress alteration services. Other options include a local tailor, seamstress, or even a dressmaker if lots of changes need to be made.

Finding an alteration service specializing in formal gowns is advised since the flowing fabrics and beading require more skill and precision than regular clothing.

A formal gown can be taken in 2 sizes pretty easily but taking in more than 3 sizes requires costly recutting and potential redesign to make it work. Making a drastic size reduction makes it difficult, if not impossible, to keep specific details of the gown.

If your dress needs to be taken in several sizes, be sure to ask about the sewer's experience with such alterations. You want to be sure an inexperienced sewer doesn't ruin the dress.

A dress that is too small can be altered to be bigger. Costs will vary depending on the fabric, dress style, and the time required to make the alterations blend in.

To let out the dress by a size or two, a seamstress releases the side seams or adds a gusset for more room. Adding a zipper extender or corset back adds up to 5 inches to the bodice if needed

Dress alterations usually take 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the number of fittings required to get the perfect fit. Alteration times may increase during the peak wedding season when shops are busier.

The number of alterations also affects the total time. A simple hem can often be done in a few days while taking in the bust and hips of a dress takes much longer.

There are numerous vendors available near you on Fash.com with the knowledge and experience to alter your dress to perfection. To narrow down the best alteration service for your needs, be sure to ask these important questions:

• How many years of experience do you have altering formal dresses?
• How much will the alterations cost?
• Do you charge a flat fee for alterations or charge individually for each service?
• How many fitting appointments will I need?
• How long will it take to finish the dress?
• What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
• Will you steam the gown after alterations?

Finding that perfect dress is hard enough but finding it in the right size may seem impossible. Luckily, an experienced dress alteration service can refit almost any dress. Consider these guidelines when choosing a dress alteration service:

• Search for a local seamstress with years of dress alteration experience.
• Read their customer reviews on Fash and Google.
• Make appointments with the most professional seamstress that fits your budget and timeline.
• Confirm the changes, alteration costs, number of fittings, and time required before leaving the dress to be altered.
• Try on the altered dress before making the final payment and taking it home with you.