Dress doesn’t feel the same

First picture is my dress now, second pic is the sample

This seems to be a somewhat frequent issue based on the sheer number of Instagram/TikTok stories where brides share their experiences. Some stores’ associates measure incorrectly and order an incorrect (usually much larger) size so they can make bank from the in store alterations. It’s not the brides measuring themselves which is physically impossible, or someone at home who is not able to read a measuring chart exactly vs the size chart provided. Then the store fights the bride that she measured herself and insisted on a different size than what she actually fits into and wanted, and the store refuses to rectify their error.


Typically a sample dress is stretched out from being tried on so many times, unless it’s brand new. I’m some situations, the store will let you buy the actual sample. Either way, contact the store management to dispute this because that is a violation of customer service. If the manager won’t do anything, contact corporate and write reviews on Yelp to warn future brides, because that cannot be removed at the vendor’s request which TheKnot does.

It does seem a better bet (for anyone getting the opportunity) to buy the sample if it is just right. The excuse to get bigger sizes based on the idea it stretched seems to be stretching the truth. Also, the idea would be that you could get that same size and stretch it anyhow. Hopefully others will see this pattern of boutiques and be ready to walkaway. The other option is require them change the sales terms to refund or compensate you for dress excessively oversized

Sorry this is not specific to your situation.

Yes, your seamstress can absolutely take the bodice in more. Have you showed her the picture of you wearing the sample dress?

Hi everyone,

The store has offered to trade me the sample dress for my dress. Obviously I paid for a new dress but it is already almost $800 in alterations without the bodice. I am leaning toward exchanging it. Obviously after thoroughly inspecting the dress, is this a good idea? I'm so confused.

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I have, and she said she is sure it doesn't need to be taken in more. Also, alterations are already at $800 without doing anything with the bodice

View Quoted Comment Yes it is a good idea to exchange it. And demand a refund of the price difference. It’s their fault, not yours, for intentionally ordering the wrong size. Speak with the manager as necessary. They know that you they can charge you extra for extra alterations without batting an eye. Take the dress elsewhere to an independent seamstress on Yelp for alterations who isn’t charging that much. $800 for alterations alone is the equivalent an entire dress restructuring, which is the plan behind ordering the wrong size. Once you get the sample dress and the refund, you walk away and don’t come back. Get the alterations done elsewhere.

View Quoted Comment In addition to inspecting it for flaws, I would also make sure to try the dress on again and ensure it fits the way you want it to.