Average alteration cost

I just went to my 1st fitting and nearly had a heart attack. To take it the top, do the bustle, and hem the lace bottom was $595. This was at the bridal store, and I'm in NJ.

View Quoted Comment Holy crap! Yeah I would’ve had a heart attack lol I’m in CT. Not sure how much pricing would be different here. I’ve only reached out to one seamstress so far and when asked if she had an idea of how much (She hasn’t seen the dress in person yet) she asked what my budget is. So here I am lol

I went to my first fitting and my estimate right now is around $295 and that's without a bustle. If I do that I'm thinking it may end up around 500....which is more than I paid for my actual dress lol. We will see when I go for my next appt!

I think the big companies are more expensive. I found a hidden gem. Small town seamstress with small town prices but still really good. To get my the sides taken in it’s $25, then if she has to take in in the back it’s another $25. Then for the hem to be taken in several inches about $120. For around 5 layers. She said max $180. Even though I want my train completely gone, she could have removed the bottom hemmed it and then put it back on. She did my FSILs dress like that and had a similar price. And FSIL said it fit perfectly. Very very reasonable. About an hour from St. Louis.

Mine are almost $700 😳😩 taking it in up top, hem (I’m fairly short), bustle, and making wider straps.

Two of tailors who specialize in bridal in my area, a large city, start at $350-$400.

I’m in NY. I had the straps shortened, cups added, sides taken in, hem, and bustle. Total cost $715, I was expecting to be more in the $500 ballpark but it is what it is

Always ask for quotes from sources other than the place you purchased or even try haggling. Bridal shops are notorious for overcharging for alterations and accessories. There are many small businesses that would love to do the work.

We are in Brooklyn, I had cups put in, sides taken in, one point bustle on my sheath lace cold shoulder dress. $150

Thank you all so much! All of your comments have really helped me decide on a budget! Thank you!!