How to Alter a Bustle Dress: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you the proud owner of a stunning bustle dress that doesn’t quite fit as you had hoped? Don’t let that stop you from showcasing your beautiful gown. With a few simple alterations, you can transform your bustle dress into the perfect outfit for any occasion. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to alter a bustle dress, ensuring that it fits you like a dream.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. You will need:

– A pair of fabric scissors
– pins
– a measuring tape
– a needle and thread
– a sewing machine (optional)
– a dress form or a friend to help you fit the dress

Step 2: Assess the Fit

Take your bustle dress and try it on. Identify the areas that need alteration, such as the bust, waist, hips, and hem. Pay attention to any excess fabric or tight spots that might be causing discomfort or an unflattering fit.

Step 3: Mark the Areas for Alteration

Using a piece of chalk or a fabric pen, mark the areas where you need to make adjustments. Be sure to mark the exact spots where the dress is too tight or too loose. This will help you visualize the changes and ensure that you make the right adjustments.

Step 4: Cut the Dress

With your fabric scissors, carefully cut the dress along the marked lines. Remember to leave a seam allowance of at least 1/2 inch for each side. This will give you enough fabric to sew the dress back together after making the necessary alterations.

Step 5: Adjust the Bust and Waist

If the bust or waist area is too tight, take the excess fabric from the sides and sew it together to create a gathered effect. If the dress is too loose, you can remove the excess fabric by cutting it away and then sewing the dress back together. Be sure to keep the dress symmetrical and even as you make these adjustments.

Step 6: Adjust the Hips

If the hips are too tight, you can add width to the dress by creating a pleat or a godet. Cut a strip of fabric that is the width of the desired alteration and sew it to the hip area of the dress. If the hips are too loose, remove the excess fabric by cutting it away and then sewing the dress back together.

Step 7: Adjust the Hem

If the hem is too long, you can simply cut it to the desired length. If the hem is too short, you can add length by creating a pleat or a godet, similar to the hip adjustment. Be sure to measure the hem accurately to ensure that it is the correct length.

Step 8: Sew the Dress Back Together

Using your needle and thread, or a sewing machine, sew the dress back together. Be sure to sew the seams neatly and evenly, and to reinforce any stress points, such as the bust and waist areas.

Step 9: Try On the Dress Again

Once you have completed the alterations, try on the dress again. Make any final adjustments as needed, and enjoy your perfectly fitted bustle dress.

By following these simple steps, you can easily alter a bustle dress to fit your body perfectly. Don’t let a dress that doesn’t fit stop you from wearing it; with a bit of patience and some basic sewing skills, you can make it your own.