What To Do If My Prom Dress Is Too Big for Me?

So you’re recommend to purchase your standard size prom dresses a size or two bigger than they normally would. In terms of alterations & tailoring, it is much easier and more affordable to take in a dress that is too big than to try to create more room in the dress that is too small.

Now you’ve got the dress! And you’re wondering what should I do if my prom dress is too big for me. This is precisely what we’re aiming to answer in this post.

Don’t worry; you’ll be able to alter and take in your prom dress to fit you perfectly. Here are a few tips on what to do if your prom dress is too big:

In general, you can alter a dress 1 to 2 sizes. It’s usually easier to make a dress smaller than it is to make one larger, but both can be done.

How do I make my dress tighter without sewing?

If you really don’t want to tailor it, here are a few quick-fixed to try. However they are not going to look as good as having the dress taken-in by a professional.

1. Safety pins – pin inside the dress in key areas to tuck in some of the fabric. Try to do this in a streamline way that isn’t noticeable for an instantly form-fitting dress.
   However, be careful not to damage the fabric.
2. If the waist of your dress is too big, you can use the same bunching method on either side of your waist.
   Or, adding a waist belt to tighten the waist. A slim glitter or metallic belt to make the waist area look more tailored.
3. Use Shapewear Underneath: Shapewear can help to smooth out your figure and create a more defined silhouette. Look for shapewear that targets your specific needs, such as a body shaper or a waist cincher. If the top of the dress is too loose, a bigger bra (or stuffing) can help fill it out.
4. Accessorize Strategically: A bold necklace or statement earrings can draw attention away from any areas you’re self-conscious about.
5. Layer with a Jacket or Shrug: They can help to cover any loose areas and add a stylish touch to your outfit.
6. Add embellishments: Consider adding lace, beading, or other decorative elements to distract from the loose fit.
7. If your neckline juts out and doesn’t lay nicely flat against your skin, a basting string can slightly gathers the lining fabric so it lays more closely to your body. This can also be done around the arms, or anywhere else the fabric doesn’t lay as toughly as it should.

If you need your dress tailored more than a few sizes, it’s probably best to bring it to a professional.
A professional tailor can make alterations to fit the dress perfectly. They can adjust the seams, take in the sides, or add darts to create a flattering fit.

Common alterations can tailors do for a prom dress too big:

1. Taking in the side seams: This is the most common way to slim down a dress.
2. Adjusting the back seam: Can be altered to create a better fit, especially if the dress is too loose around the waist.
3. Adding darts: Can be sewn into the bodice to create a more defined shape.
4. Hemming the length: Most prom dresses need some length adjustment to fit properly with heels.
   The difficulty of the hem comes down to how wide its, how many layers, and if there is any applique or horsehair braid.
5. Adjusting length of straps: Can be adjust according your comfort and coverage you want.

For example, If the waist of your dress is too big, you can ask the tailor to add on a tie with thick ribbon or by taking it from the bottom or liner of the dress. Tying it tighter this way would look right if you know what you’re doing and help keep it on.

With all that being said, to make sure that your local alterations provider can accommodate your prom dress alterations, visit your seamstress or tailor as soon as you possibly can.

Having your shoes and undergarments with you during your initial fitting is a MUST for prom dress alterations.

Custom made is one of the way to make sure your dress looks perfectly tailored when you look back on your prom pictures in 20 years. If you’re buying customized prom dresses online, we encourage customers to visit your local tailor to have them take your measurements for you and help you with sizing.

How much does it cost to alter a prom dress too big?

It depends upon the style of the dress and how much it has to be taken in. It can be done!

It varies widely depending on what alterations you require and the construction of your dress. For example, if your dress has multiple layers, you’ll have to pay for each layer to be hemmed. ustline alterations can also be a bit complex.

On average, prom dress alterations can cost anywhere from $75 to $150.

Overall, keep in mind that the more you want to adjust the original construction of the dress, the more costly your alterations will be.
So make sure to factor in the average cost of alterations when you’re purchasing your prom dress.

Remember, the key is to feel confident and comfortable in your dress. With a few simple adjustments, you can transform a too-big dress into a stunning prom ensemble.
Make sure to try on your prom dress during your final visit. Because dress alterations can be complex, last-minute adjustments are not uncommon and, in most cases, necessary.

No matter you’re looking for standard sized or customize sized dress for prom 2025, Happyprom.co.uk will be you shopping destination.

You may interested in The Complete Guide to Find Best Prom Dresses

For more info about dress tailor, you can check this Wiki post about tailoring: