Bridal Gown Alteration Timeline Checklist: The Fifi's Perfect Fit Guide
December 14, 2025
Shelly Bouse • December 14, 2025
Bridal Gown Alteration Timeline Checklist: The Fifi's Perfect Fit Guide
Planning your wedding is exciting, but scheduling your gown fittings can be stressful. At Fifi's Bridal and Custom Tailoring, we simplify the process. This checklist ensures your gown is flawlessly fitted and ready for your big day without the stress of rush fees.
Phase 1: Preparation & Booking (12 to 6 Months Before Wedding)
| Timing | Action Item | Notes & Fifi's Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| 12-10 Months | Order Your Gown | Ensure your dress is ordered well in advance, especially if ordering custom colors or non-standard sizes. |
| 8-6 Months | Source Shoes & Undergarments | Purchase the exact shoes, bra, and shaping garments you plan to wear. You MUST have these for all major fittings. |
| 6 Months | Book Tailor/Seamstress | Crucial: If you purchased your gown elsewhere, book your first alteration appointment with Fifi's Master Tailors now. Quality tailors book up fast! |
Phase 2: The Fitting Process
(4 to 2 Months Before Wedding)
This is the core alteration period. We recommend 2 total fittings.
1. The First Fitting: Structural Adjustments & Bustle
| Timing | Action Item | Fifi's Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 4 Months Out | First Fitting | Bring: Gown, Shoes, Undergarments, & Accessories (veil, belt, jewelry). Goal: Set the baseline, discuss all structural changes (major body fit, taking seams in/out), and establish the final hem length. |
2. The Second Fitting: Structural Adjustments & Bustle
(2 Months Before Wedding)
| Timing | Action Item | Fifi's Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 2 Months Out | Second Fitting | Goal: Check that the major structural adjustments (bodice, waist, hips) are correct. Finalize the bustle design (how the train is held up) and mark all embellishment/lace re-placement points. |
| 2 Months Out | Check Final Fit | Move, sit, and dance! Ensure comfort and mobility. |
3. Final Check & Take Home
| Timing | Action Item | Fifi's Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 2-1.5 Weeks Out | Gown Pick-Up | Goal: This is the final inspection. The fit should be perfect. Try the gown on one last time to confirm all details, buttons, and zippers function flawlessly. Take your gown home! It will be professionally steamed, pressed, and carefully packaged for travel. |
❗ Critical Reminders for Brides
| Reminder | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight Fluctuations | We recommend scheduling your final fitting close to your wedding date (1.5-2 weeks out) to account for any natural body fluctuations. |
| Rush Fees | Gowns brought in less than 8 weeks before the wedding will likely incur rush service fees. Book early to save! |
| Design Changes | If you plan on adding sleeves, changing the neckline, or restyling a vintage gown, notify us immediately upon booking, as this requires extra time in the schedule. |
| Shoes & Bra | Your shoes and exact wedding day undergarments are non-negotiable! They must be present at every fitting to guarantee the hem and fit are precise. |
| Who to Bring | Bring the person who will be helping you dress and managing your bustle on the wedding day. We will teach them how to secure the gown! |
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