Fittings are an essential part of your preparations for any event. It’s the extra attention to even the tiniest details that gets you looking simply exquisite on your wedding day, bridal party, or formal black-tie event.

Many people make the mistake of leaving their fittings until the last minute or going for appointments with a seamstress unprepared. This only complicates the process and takes up even more time.

At Rachel’s Custom Sewing, we understand that fittings can appear daunting and stressful. Therefore we have written this article, which tells you what to expect, so you can be prepared.

First, Always Make a Booking

The very first step to creating the perfect outfit is setting up an appointment with your seamstress. The same applies if you want to make alterations to your wedding dress, bridesmaids’ dresses, or suits. The first appointment ensures your seamstress gets your exact measurement and understands what you want for your big day. You would need to choose a suitable time and date for you and your seamstress before you come to the fitting room.

To schedule an appointment with Rachel’s Custom Sewing, visit our booking page and fill the appropriate form. You would also need to provide some information to help us know how to prepare and the number of people to expect. Feel free to leave more details for us to work with in the form.

What to Expect at General Fittings

If you are simply booking a fitting for a regular outfit or need alterations made on some pre-owned but still loved outfits, then here is what you need to know:

• Come with your outfit or pieces of clothing. We have a fitting room for changing into your outfits, and this room is also where the fitting will be done.
• In the fitting room, our seamstress will note the areas that need adjustment in your garments, make notes or take measurements, and pin wherever necessary.
• After the fitting, you’ll receive a quote or invoice with details about the expected date your alterations would be ready.
• Finally, we’ll send a reminder text message with a link for you to make another booking to pick up your ready items.

What to Expect at a Bridal, Formal, or Suit Fitting

Below, you’ll find answers to some questions people frequently ask when they’re booking a fitting for formal, wedding, or bridesmaid dresses or suits:

1.      What do I bring?

You should come to the fitting with the outfit you need to be altered. Also come with everything you would wear on the day: shoes and undergarments, including your shapewear. This is essential for bridal outfits like wedding dresses or formal dresses so that we can make appropriate alterations.

2.     Do I need separate appointments for additional people?

Scheduling an appointment with us is crucial so that every customer gets enough time for their fitting session without accidental double-ups. So, yes, please make additional appointments for extra people such as bridesmaids.

3.     Should I book the appointment on behalf of my bridesmaids?

This depends on what you would like; the choice is completely yours! You can make a booking for them or send them the booking link to choose a suitable time for themselves. If your bridesmaids’ schedules work with yours, you may come together, but ensure you make double appointments instead of one. If you have trouble with doing this on the booking page, shoot me a text, and I’d be happy to fix it manually for you.

4.    How many people can come along with me?

If you choose to come with someone, that works for us. But it is important to know we have two seats for friends or family in the fitting room which isn’t quite large. Your children are also welcome to come with you. We have a big LEGO room that will keep them having fun and occupied during your appointment.

5.     How long does a fitting take?

Usually, it takes about 30 minutes for the first wedding dress fitting and 20 minutes for subsequent ones. It should take an hour maximum if there are any other factors or intricacies involved.

For bridesmaids or formal outfits, you need about 15 to 20 minutes, while general fittings take 10 to 20 minutes. Suit fittings usually take 10 to 15 minutes.

6.    How long will my alteration take?

This depends on the type of dress or alteration to be made. For wedding dresses, it could take up to 2 to 3 months. For others, 2 to 3 weeks is the usual timeline unless you make other specific arrangements for it to be done sooner.

Formal seasons are our busiest times, and it takes a longer lead-time. However, if it’s only a small item to be altered, 2 to 3 weeks is our average timeframe.

7.     What are my payment options?

Most clients prefer cash and bank transfer options. We also accept card payments, but you would need to pay an extra charge for EFT-POS. Bank details are included on your invoice for you to transfer at your convenience. We are happy to accommodate any payment option that’s convenient for you!

Book an Appointment

Now that you know what to expect at your fitting, booking an appointment should be quite easy. Contact us  for your first fitting, and let’s make your outfit look amazing!