How do you alter a prom dress?

Answer 1

Alterations on a prom dress can be very complicated, as some dresses have multiple layers and intricate detailing. Unless you have sufficient knowledge in sewing, I would not recommend attempting this on your own. Prom dresses are typically very expensive and if you ruined the dress with inexperienced sewing you would be out a lot of money. I recommend finding a local seamstress to alter your dress. This can be as inexpensive as $10 depending on the area and alterations needed. Check the yellow pages, online, or local bridal stores to find a seamstress in your area.

Answer 2

The first step is to select the pattern for the dress you want. On the back of the pattern there will be a list of materials needed (type of fabric and how much fabric), thread, zipper, buttons, etc. to make the dress. The back of the pattern should also recommend what type of fabric will work best for that particuar pattern. Assuming you don't know how to sew, find someone who does, and have them sew it for you.

If you are not an accomplished seamstress, a prom dress is certainly not the project for you to learn on. And even though you can save a lot of money by doing it this way, as well as being more likely to get one you really like, and get a custom fit, keep in mind that you will have to pay the seamstress for sewing it for you. Also, ask the seamstress for references; if she is good at what she does, she will have no problem giving you some.

But there is another alternative to making the dress from scratch, too. You can buy a secondhand dress (or use one you may already have) and embelish it with 'bling'; remove straps to make it a strapless dress, then add a lacy shawl; remove sleeves from a 'dressy' dress for an updated look, or add sleeves to a sleeveless one using a sheer or lacy fabric.

Just use your imagination and the possibilities are endless.