Dress alterations - how much does it cost?

No one can really give you a guideline as to the anticipated costs of alterations because the costs can vary greatly depending on the dress itself (i.e. beading, lace, how many layers of fabric etc) and the alterations you need.

If it helps, I had a lace and beaded mermaid style gown and I had the dress hemmed, boning added to the bodice as well as straps custom made for the gown and a bustle added and that cost me $600 AUD (about $425 USD).

I went to a private seamstress who added an 8 point bustle, bra cups, and took up the straps and it was $290.

I went to a private seamstress my family has used for other alterations. She frequently has wedding dresses in her rack of items to be picked up so we knew she had experience altering them. I just needed the shoulders straps shortened and for the dress to be hemmed. No lace or detailing on the bottom edge but it is 7 layers in total (3 tulle, 2 crinoline, and two fabric). Total was $350. I'm in Virginia.

Some brides have skipped getting a bustle and been fine for the ceremony and reception. One used a loop on the end of the train for going across the lawn for pictures and a few other instances and was fine without the bustle.