Altering a vintage or used wedding gown???

I bought two dresses, one was never worn vintage and one was second hand vintage. The first one needed some alterations (hems coming apart, split zipper). It didn't need anything major, like you are talking about, but it cost me a good bit more than I thought.

The second dress only needed minor alterations, which was done for free.

I guess my advice is that alterations can cost a good bit, especially when you have a well-seasoned seamstress. So even if you find an "inexpensive" gown, it may cost you more in the long run.

Also, depending on how old it is and what condition it's in, you may want to take it to someone who specializes in restoring wedding gowns.

I'm considering an older dress too. We're paying for the whole wedding ourselves and we have really bad luck, so we need the cheapest options possible.

@Sydney, try looking for a local bridal consignment store

I got a 40 year old gown from a vintage clothing shop. I had the train cut off and the dress hemmed to tea length. It was taken in on the sides and the sleeves were shortened a bit. Alterations totaled $25 -- BUT, that was 29 years ago!

Keep in mind that depending on what alterations need done, this y not be a cheaper option.

Also depending on the age of the dress it could get dicey trying to take it apart.

Whatever you decide make sure you use a good seamstress who works with bridal gowns a lot

I wanted to do that with my moms dress but unfortunately they wanted 4000 to alter it I was very disappointed since that is about 3000 over my budget.

I got a 2nd hand dress off Craigslist. I am currently altering it myself since it was a few sizes too small. Believe me when I say I had a panic attack cutting a beautiful dress in half! The fabric I'm adding cost me about $2.60.