You’ve heard the old sayings, “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” Or, “a sixpence in your shoe on your wedding day, a fortuitous marriage is guaranteed.” Well, getting married in a dress worn initially by another era’s bride can take care of several of those items all at once. Maybe you have your mother’s or even your grandmother’s dress that you love and want to wear on your wedding day. But, it doesn’t fit you, or you want to make it your own and more modern. Updating the vintage wedding dress is going to require some serious attention. Here is everything you need to know about making a vintage dress your own.
Start with a clean wedding dress
An older gown may have become discolored over time. Invest in a thorough and professional cleaning to be sure the fabric is in good shape. Also, to make sure it’s presented in the color it was meant to be.
The right fit
Most likely, you’re not an accomplished seamstress, or don’t have one among your family and friends. So, you should consider hiring an experienced tailor to alter the dress to fit you. For example, if the dress is too small, a corset back can be made out of the dress’s existing fabric to help you get the desired fit. On the other hand, if the dress is too big, a tailor can take it in and make you fit beautifully.
Update the vintage wedding dress
An experienced seamstress can also make changes or add embellishments that will further individualize vintage wedding gowns. Options include adding beading and lace. As well as, trimming the long trains or slimming a wide skirt. Also, using excess fabric from trims for sleeve additions and alterations.
The price of restoring vintage wedding dresses
The price of updating an antique or vintage wedding dress can vary greatly, and it depends on the dress and on the nature of the alteration. Some alterations can cost as little as a few hundred dollars, while others may require thousands and thousands. So, make sure to calculate how much this means to you, and how much a new dress would be before you make a decision. But, also, keep in mind that there is no price for heart-touching tradition. If it really means a lot to you and your family, any price is worth it.