When it comes to the professionals who work behind the scenes to make a wedding successful, tailors are unsung heroes. A good tailor can have a tremendous impact on your wedding day appearance. Let’s take a closer look at what tailors do for brides and grooms and what you should know about working with one.

IN YOUR CORNER

When you have a good tailor in your corner, you have an ally who’s going to be working to make you look good—and feel incredible—on your wedding day. Tailors have the expertise to create a perfect fit that accentuates your natural shape. That, in turn, boosts your confidence.

Beyond alterations, a good tailor is a problem-solver. They can accommodate unique body shapes, handle last-minute weight fluctuations, and address any other fitting challenges that could arise. Their expert advice extends beyond measurements; they can guide you on fabric choices, style options that flatter you, and provide tips on garment care to ensure your attire remains pristine for years to come.

Perhaps most importantly, entrusting your wedding attire to a capable tailor provides immense stress reduction. Knowing that your clothing is in expert hands allows you to focus on other aspects of your wedding planning, confident that you'll look and feel your absolute best on the big day.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT: SELECTING Your TAILOR

Put as much care into finding the right tailor as you would into selecting your photographer or florist: Their contribution to your wedding day matters. Start with some research: Look for tailors who specialize in wedding attire. If you’re overwhelmed with the choices in your community, ask for recommendations from friends or wedding planners. Once you have a few people in mind, read their customer reviews and check portfolios.

I’d also encourage you to meet with prospective tailors. You want someone who takes time to listen to your needs and communicates clearly about what can be achieved.

Of course, pricing will likely be a consideration, too. While quality tailoring is an investment, make sure the pricing aligns with your budget. At the same time, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true.

WHAT TO EXPECT: FOR THE BRIDE

Your tailoring experience, most likely, will begin with an initial consultation. This is when you’ll discuss your vision, try on your wedding dress, and talk about necessary alterations.

It’s common to complete two or three fittings leading up to your wedding, and possibly more if extensive alterations are needed.

The tailor’s work could include:

-Bodice alterations: This could involve taking in or letting out the waist, adjusting the bust, or altering straps and sleeves.

-Hem adjustments: The dress length will be perfectly adjusted to your height and shoe choice.

-Bustle addition: If your dress has a train, a bustle will be added for easier movement during the reception.

Your work with your tailor also will include a final fitting: a last try-on to be sure everything is perfect, usually one to two weeks before your wedding.

WHAT TO EXPECT: FOR THE GROOM

Before even considering a tailor, the groom needs to make a choice for his wedding-day apparel: renting, buying off-the-rack, or having a custom suit made.

Once he knows what he’ll be wearing, he’ll have a consultation with the tailor, too, when a thorough set of measurements will be taken for precise fitting.

If the groom has decided to have the tailor create a custom suit, he’ll need to select fabrics, colors, and style details.

The number of fittings the groom will vary, beginning with one or two with off-the-rack suits. He’ll probably need to go in for more with a custom suit.

Common alterations include:

-Adjustments: The tailor adjusts sleeve and pant length, takes in the waist, and ensures proper shoulder fit.

Grooms: Don't forget to discuss alterations for your shirt, waistcoat, or other accessories.

WORKING EFFECTIVELY WITH YOUR TAILOR

If you want to make most of your working relationship with your tailor, be honest with them from the beginning. Communicate openly about your preferences, concerns, and budget. And be sure to speak up, politely: If something doesn't feel right, say so. It's easier to make changes early in the process.

That said, while tailors have been described as wedding fairy godmothers, their magic is not without limits. You’ll need to be realistic about what they can achieve and understand that some changes just might not be possible without compromising a garment’s integrity.

More tips:

-Start the alteration process early to avoid rush fees and added stress.

-Wear the undergarments and shoes you plan to wear on your wedding day to each fitting.

-Think about bringing a trusted friend or family member for an extra opinion and support.

-If you plan to lose or gain weight, inform your tailor. Major body changes may require additional alterations.

-Understand that some fabrics are easier to alter than others. Discuss this with your tailor when making decisions.

-Ask your tailor for advice on caring for and preserving your wedding attire after the big day.

-If you're coordinating outfits for a large wedding party, choose a tailor who can handle group fittings efficiently.

-Discuss a plan for last-minute adjustments, just in case.

Since The Bell Tower on 34th opened more than a decade ago, it has earned a reputation as the best wedding venue in Houston.

Our southeast Texas venue with a chapel, waterwall, and beautifully tended grounds, can accommodate both small and large weddings.

Learn more about getting married here.

The Bell Tower on 34th

901 W 34th St, Houston, TX 77018

(713) 868-2355