1 Hem Length adjustment, including fabric type No hem needed $0 Plain fabric hem Single-layer, no embellishment from $150 Lace hem Lace appliqué preserved & re-laid from $250 Beaded / embroidered hem Beadwork removed & restored by hand from $375 Multi-layer / horsehair hem Ball gown, A-line with horsehair trim from $450
2 Bustle Lifts the train for the reception No bustle needed $0 American bustle (1–2 points) Train pinned over, classic look from $85 American bustle (3–5 points) Drapes the train into folds from $135 French / under bustle Hidden tie-up beneath the skirt from $135 Ballroom bustle (6+ points) Full-length lift, no train visible from $185
3 Bodice & side seams Take in or let out for body fit No bodice work $0 Minor adjustment Roughly one size; clean fit at sides from $95 Standard adjustment 1–2 sizes; may involve boning re-shape from $165 Major restructure 3+ sizes, full bodice rebuild from $295
4 Bust & cups Cup inserts or contour adjustments No bust work $0 Sewn-in cups Cup forms added to the bodice lining from $45 Bust contour adjustment Reshape cups for a smoother fit from $85
5 Straps Shorten, add, or convert neckline No strap work $0 Shorten straps Lift the bodice into place from $40 Add straps From stock fabric; spaghetti or wider from $85 Convert neckline e.g., strapless to off-shoulder from $145
6 Sleeves Shorten, alter, or add a cap No sleeve work $0 Shorten sleeves from $55 Add cap sleeves Short cap added to strapless gown from $115 Full sleeve alteration Long-sleeve restructure with lace from $165
7 Add-ons Optional services & timing Pre-wedding steam & press Final press before the ceremony +$85 Post-wedding preservation Cleaning + acid-free archival box +$295 Rush — under 4 weeks out Adds 25% to alteration labor +25% LEO / first responder household 10% off — ID verified at fitting −10%