frequently asked questions
your top questions, answered!
Why is BeFitted the easy, right choice for me?
Our fav question! We differentiate ourselves in a number of ways:
Most importantly, we are simply the most experienced and talented set of hands you could entrust your dress to within the DC-VA-MD region. We only alter wedding dresses and women's formal attire. Our principal has over 30 years of experience sewing wedding dresses. You really can't beat that.
You can reach us through modern means - book an appointment online in < 1 min.
We're open on weekends, meaning you don't have to leave work in the middle of the day for a fitting.
We get most of our brides in and out in 3 total fittings (including the initial consultation) - we won't waste your time or ours by sewing while you're in.
We're a mother-daughter team. We're family. When you become a BeFitted Bride, you become family too. That means we'll always give you a truthful opinion with your best interest in mind.
Oh, and of course we are 5-star rated on The Knot, Wedding Wire, Google, and Yelp:)
How soon will my dress be ready?
For Wedding Dresses: The fitting process typically takes about 3.5 months. More complex dresses require more time to perfect. Rush fees come into play when we are under 3 months from the wedding at the point of the first appointment. The sweet spot for booking your first appointment is about 3.5-4 months prior to the wedding.
Should an emergency arise, we can sometimes accommodate brides who need their dresses sooner than a month. This is all dependent however on our schedule and capacity at any given time.
However, life happens, and we really do urge brides to meet with us early to be "safe rather than sorry."
Can I do a walk-in appointment?
No, all BeFitted clients are seen by appointment only. Meeting with our clients one-on-one allows us to get to know you better, hear your story, and get a stronger understanding of your vision for your dress and what is most important to you. It also allows us to give you our full attention!
There is a no-show/late cancellation fee of $50, which comes into play 48 hours before the appt. This fee covers our staff’s time and preparation.
Do you have a price list?
No, we do not, and we don't know of any reputable bridal tailoring company that does. Wedding dresses have a ton of variety and it’s nearly impossible to estimate how much work will go into tailoring a dress without seeing it and touching it with your own hands first.
We do not offer quotes over the phone or via email because every bride and dress is different. Most people fall between the $695-1600 range (though we do not have a price “floor” meaning your total may be below this range). Note that not all gowns can be completely resized (this includes sample gowns). We also take a very limited number of dress customizations a season if you are looking for a redesign or recutting project such as relining a dress, changing a neckline/backline, or adding sleeves.
If you are wondering how much bridal alterations cost, the best next step would be to book a consultation and meet with us. Estimates and consultations are complimentary for brides who put their dresses down that day; otherwise, the appointment fee is $50.
Consultation fees are waived if you proceed with your alterations order at the appointment’s conclusion, and estimates are only good for the day you come in (we cannot hold your dress for you so come ready with a budget in mind, ready to decide!). If you would just like the estimate, you can take your dress with you same-day and the appointment fee will be collected at the end of the fitting. No-show appointments and late cancellations will incur the standard appointment fee.
Your mileage will vary, but keep in mind that complexity has a direct correlation with costs. Dresses with delicate materials (silk, lace, dupioni, chiffon, scalloped edging, among many others) take hours of hands-on time and extra attention to detail. Beading is all hand-sewn (not all beaded dresses can be altered). Ball and full-train A-line gowns have a width and length that makes it difficult to use standard sewing techniques (and very rarely fall at the lower end of our price range). Dresses with several layers get hemmed sometimes 5 or 6 times. Trims and finishes (including rhinestones) are also “high-touch” materials.
Do you alter non-bridal or non-formal clothing?
We do not; we are a bridal and gown tailor only. We do not alter regular clothing or men’s wear, although some other great places in town could help you out! We also do not alter veils or work with vintage or heirloom pieces.
We also do not make custom pieces or make dresses from scratch or a pattern; we will do that in our next lifetime!
What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?
After booking a consultation request, you will receive an email listing what you will need to bring with you. Please have exact shoe and underwear pairings set prior to the appointment, and bring these with you.
Please try on your dress before you come into the studio. Trying on your dress before we start to pin you up can help you quickly prioritize what changes are the most important for your comfort and look! And come ready to decide! Any additional client-requested appointments (if available) incur an additional $50 fee, since that is a fitting we can’t offer to another bride.
What type of alterations can you do on my dress?
We are kind of like dress magicians. We can perform most alterations, including adding bra cups, taking the bodice in or out, fitting the hips, hemming, etc. Just remember, the more alterations you anticipate, the more time we’ll need to get it back to you before the big day.
There are however some things we can’t do, and we will be forthright about these limitations at your fitting. For example, if you are planning on wearing heels and want to change into flats, we would not be able to make your dress one length for part of the night and then another for the second portion of the party. We also do not make dresses and do not provide redesign or recutting services for major customizations. On rare occasions, some dresses have hems that cannot be altered without changing the design.
TIP: If you haven’t yet ordered your dress and are stuck between sizes, we would recommend sizing up. We can usually make larger dresses smaller, but it doesn’t always look as right when we have to make smaller dresses larger!
Are there restrictions on dresses you alter?
Not usually - we will alter most dresses regardless of where it was purchased, as long as the dress retains its structural integrity and can be worked with.
The only exception is vintage dresses. We take a very limited number of vintage, keepsake, or heirloom gowns. Gowns over 5 years old are considered in this category. Dresses that are older, samples, or previously altered may not support the changes you'd like to see. In those situations, we will be honest with you and let you know the limitations of how we can help. Alterations to these types of garments are usually priced at the top of our price range.
Please note that we do not offer recutting services (i.e., redesigning existing dresses to accommodate different neckline/waistline/backline, paneling, etc.); we work with existing seams on the dress to fit the gown closer to your body shape. We also do not create sleeves, though we may be able to attach existing sleeves you already have. If you have a customization in mind or your dress has a specific problem area you believe reconstruction will help with, please email us prior to your first fitting so we can get you some quick thoughts on the art of the possible.
Dresses that are pre-loved or a sample may need cleaning services. The client is responsible for covering dry cleaning expenses before the first appointment or will be required to pay for full cleaning services with us before we can begin tailoring. For the safety of our team, we will not alter a used dress that has not been cleaned. Please note that at this time, we are not offering alterations services for sample or pre-worn dresses.
Please also keep in mind that we review and triage each appointment request individually. Your appointment may be canceled if you book under our standard alterations range, request customizations that we cannot accommodate, or select an appointment type that differs from the alterations you need (e.g., booking a wedding dress fitting for formal gown). We will notify you by email.
What can I expect if my dress is a sample or very big?
If you bought a sample dress or have a dress that is two or more sizes too big or too small, we will do our best to help you but may reach the conclusion that we cannot guarantee the right fit for you. Dresses that are heavily beaded or include a complex inner structure are more difficult to resize.
We would encourage you to book an appointment with us to get an estimate. If you choose to just take the estimate, the $50 appointment fee will apply. We always recommend being measured for a dress; resizing alterations can add up quickly and usually begin at $1000+.
Remember that dry cleaning and spot cleaning are not included in any estimate we provide. For our team’s safety, we require worn dresses to be cleaned before we can alter them.
What if I plan on losing some weight before my wedding?
If you are planning on losing weight before your wedding, please plan on doing so before coming in for your first fitting. Weight fluctuations will change the way your dress fits, and sometimes a general diet and/or exercise routine will result in weight loss and weight gain in ways and places you can’t control!
If you want to try to hit the gym before the big day, please make sure to make any adjustments greater than 5 lbs before your first fitting. Refittings (if even possible) could incur additional fees (because when size is a moving target, it makes it nearly impossible for us to get a precise fit!). And don’t forget to make sure you’ve hit this goal weight at least 4 months before the wedding so we have enough time to alter your dress for you!
Can I have my dress steamed and pressed?
Absolutely, and you’ll be surprised what a difference finishing touches can make on the final look and feel of your gown. We can chat you through this at your second fitting if you are completing your alterations directly with us.
If you did not have your dress tailored with us, you can book a drop-off online. We generally need a minimum of one full week prior to pick-up, with the sweet spot for drop-off being about two weeks before needed pick-up date (not the event date!). We do not hold completed pressing orders for more than 3 weeks.
For existing alterations clients, wedding dress steaming begins at $165, pressing at $200, and veil steaming at $50. Cost is directly correlated with dress delicacy, composition, and complexity, as well as the time needed before pick-up date.
For clients who are looking for steaming/pressing only, this service generally begins at around $250+, and requires a minimum of 10 days.
Do you clean and preserve dresses?
We do and we would recommend that after the party you get your wedding dress cleaned to protect that investment of yours.
If you plan on keeping your dress long-term, we recommend that you have the dress fully cleaned and preserved after the wedding (we generally do not recommend full cleaning before the first wear). If you are planning on selling or donating a dress, you may just want to have your dress cleaned. Pricing will depend on the condition of the dress and fabric composition. You can read more about the full process here.
There are certain situations where we cannot clean your dress due to the material or fragility of the garment. In those cases, we will let you know at time of drop-off. Please note that some materials may experience slight discoloration or a change in texture after cleaning. This is normal, but worth mentioning up front. We always use the lightest blend of cleaning agents possible to get your dress as renewed as possible.
My wedding is local; can I have my dress delivered?
We may be able to deliver your dress if your wedding is within 10 miles of our boutique (think: Alexandria, DC, etc.). Wedding dress delivery means we will bring your wedding dress to your hotel or venue the day before your wedding (availability contingent and not guaranteed). Delivery includes full steaming and pressing. We will set up your dress for you and have everything set so all you have to do is literally step into your dress on the day-of!
How many guests can I bring with me?
Our studio is cozy; please limit yourself to one guest for a fitting. Guests will need to be seated for the entire fitting/pinning portion of our session to make sure we can give you and your gown proper attention.
Obviously, the decision to bring someone with you is up to you, but we have seen many brides, and we promise that having your mom + your sister + your best friend + your roommate + your long-lost cousin with you will never play out as dreamy as it does in your head. If you choose to bring someone along for the fitting, ask someone who knows you well and can be real with you. Please do not bring little ones with you if possible; our studio is not child-safe and we cannot be held liable for injuries. You will be held responsible for any damage done to our space.
The majority of brides come solo. We think this is a smart decision as too many cooks in the kitchen can sometimes leave you feeling more confused as opposed to trusting your gut. If you need an honest second opinion, we'll be happy to give it to you.
I haven’t ordered my dress yet - can I get my measurements taken?
Yes, and we would recommend that you absolutely do. Getting your measurements taken ahead of time can save you a whole lot of hassle later. Please bring the shoes you’d like to pair your dress with along with any photos/forms required before you ship them off to the dress designer. Measurements appointments cost $30.
How does payment work?
We accept cash, check, and credit card. A card is required on file. You will not be able to take a dress home with you if there is an outstanding balance on it, and all deposits are non-refundable. All orders under $300 will need to be paid in full on the day of the first appointment.
We no longer accept credit cards that are not physically present at time of appointment, so if someone is covering your payment for you, plan to bring their card or add it to your Apple Pay account.
What are the terms and conditions I must agree to before my first appointment?
You can always find the rules of the road on our website here. These terms and conditions are subject to change, and the latest version will always be on our website.
Please make sure you are certain about your dress before booking an appointment. Cancellations, no-shows, and estimates-only will incur the standard appointment fee ($50 for wedding dresses, $30 for all other appointments).
You can cancel your appointment up to 48 hours in advance without penalty. There will be a link in your confirmation email that gives you the option to do so. Your appointment may be canceled if you book under our standard alterations range, request customizations that we cannot accommodate, or select an appointment type that differs from the alterations you need (e.g., booking a wedding dress fitting for formal gown). We will notify you by email.
Does BeFitted stock veils and sashes?
We do have a number of sashes, and we may recommend one to pair with your dress if there is a visible seam line that we may want to cover. Our sashes are all sourced from small boutiques and makers. Most sashes range between $80-350.
Do you sell boob tape?
We do! We run through our supply fast. Our bridal clients will have priority access to any available stock. We would recommend that you order the Brassy Bra directly on their website (it ships pretty fast!!! :) Use the code “BEFITTED” for a special treat!
If we would recommend a boob tape pairing for your gown, we will tell you during your appointment and walk you through a quick tutorial in studio.
Where can I follow your adventures?
You can follow us Instagram at @befittedtailoringco! Tag us in your photos - we make sure to look and respond to each mention :)