Sewing - Our top 5 alterations

Outside image of the window of Boo Bridal Boutique in Hartley Wintney.  The window has a floral display which appears to be coming out of the glass, there are old fashioned sewing machines in the window along with two wedding dresses on mannequins

Our little boutique in Hartley Wintney, Hampshire

Well hello there! How did May manage to sneak up on us already? Needless to say bridal season is well & truly upon us and the Sewing Studio is a hive of activity. The girls are doing a fabulous job looking after the brides and introducing you to this years incredible gowns, whilst I busy myself with the alterations.

I thought it might be fun to share with you the top 5 alterations that have been popular with brides over the last few weeks, so that you can get an idea of the type of alterations your wedding dress might need.


Emma in her happy place - The Studio

1 - The hem

Almost all gowns will need the hem to be shortened. Whether is is a nibble or a good 6”, it takes the same amount of time and effort. You might have a dress that has a crepe lining, hem and outer layer, or you could have petticoats, organza, tulle and a lace border. Which ever style dress you have, each layer needs to be measured and pinned in place, which is why it is so important that you have your shoes.


2 - Shoulder lift

Now this could also be a spaghetti strap that needs to be shortened, or it could even mean a set of sleeves need to be taken out, the arm holes need to be lowered, the shoulders need to be raised, the sleeves need to be narrowed and then everything put back together again.


3 - Boob Job

Yes - you read it right. An instant boob job is on the fitting menu at Boo! We love the fact that you don’t have to wear bras with our dresses, no unnecessary stress about whether or not your straps are showing. We simply sew in bust cups to your gown and as if by magic, you have curves to die for. We can also dictate how much bust is visible - positioning the cups for maximum lift or cleavage.


4 - Bustles

This one is self explanatory! If you want to be able to dance the night away, you are going to need a few of these. Now as controversial as it might sound, I am not a fan of the over bustle. I honestly don’t think it is as strong and I don’t care how well hidden it is …… you can still see it. So I prefer to tuck them away, hidden beneath your skirts in a system of either ribbons & loops or buttons and loops. I like to keep it simple, it has to be champagne proof.


5 - Embellishments

We have been having a wonderful time with our creative brides who want to put their own personality into their dresses, and what better way than by adding some embellishments? You can add lace to the bodice, a tulle draped strap, even have names embroidered onto your veil or train! You can’t get more personal than that.


A close up of hands pinning lace appliqués to a bridal bodice

Ask your Stylist about ways you can personalise your dream dress.

If you have any questions about your fittings or alterations, let us know. We would be happy to help.


Lots of love, Emma & The Boo Team xxx


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Wedding Q&A with Leila