FAQs
-
The ideal time frame for booking your bridal gown fitting is about 12-14 weeks before your wedding date to ensure enough time for the alterations process. A turn-around time of under 8 weeks may require additional fees for the rushed service. You should schedule your fitting even if the gown hasn’t arrived yet, as booking fills up months in advance.
For any questions or concerns about timing your first fitting, it is best contact DXN to discuss the most appropriate time frame.
-
The cost of bridal and formal gown alterations can vary greatly depending on a number of factors and is a reflection of the time, expertise, and intricate sewing techniques required to achieve your desired fit. Gowns are often made of high-quality fabrics such as silk, satin, and lace, which can be time-consuming to work with. Additionally, intricate beading, lace, and multiple layers add to the cost of alterations.
On average, bridal alterations are between $500-$800 but can be up to $1500. Other formal-wear alterations average between $50-$150. Higher alterations costs are associated most often with extensive sizing alterations for off-the-rack gowns, major customizations, custom-made sleeves and/or accessories.
Full payment for alterations will be due at the conclusion of your first fitting appointment.
For a specific cost estimate, book a consultation appointment or send pictures of the gown listing the alterations/customizations you’re expecting. You may text photos to our number at (660)262-4181 or email at info@designsxnadine.com. -
We accept the following forms of payment: credit/debit cards, exact cash, checks and we now offer Afterpay!
Afterpay allows you to break up your payments into 4 through the app. During the checkout process, we will instruct you how to download the app and request the approval for the payment amount. We will offer further instruction for this payment method in-person!
Please note: there is a 3.5% fee applied on credit/debit card transactions.
-
The typical turn-around time for a bridal gown is usually around 8-12 weeks. We prefer this time frame specifically as it gives enough time for multiple fittings (if needed) while not allowing too much time for body changes to occur after alterations are completed.
Rush alterations are accepted when completion can be guaranteed by DXN with an associated rush fee. If you are in need of a turn-around time less than 8 weeks, please contact us for confirmation.
-
The number of guests a bride should bring to a gown fitting is a personal decision. Some brides prefer to keep the experience intimate and private, while others enjoy having a larger group to share in the excitement. The most important thing is to choose guests who will provide support and offer helpful advice during the fitting process. Our fitting room can seat 4 people, at most.
If you have several friends and family members who are eager to share their opinions, consider limiting the number of guests to just a couple who you know will provide constructive feedback and make you feel most comfortable.
-
There are a few important items you should bring with you to ensure that the fitting goes smoothly and that you get an accurate idea of how the gown will look and fit on your wedding day:
Payment: Payment for alterations will be due at the conclusion of your first fitting appointment. Accepted methods of payment include: Credit/Debit cards, check or exact cash amount.
Undergarments: It's important to bring the undergarments you plan to wear with your gown, including a bra (if needed), any shape-wear or Spanx you plan to wear and a petticoat/slip (if desired). This will help to ensure a more accurate fit of the gown. You may not want or need those items but a similar underwear to what you will wear is recommended.
Shoes: Bring the shoes you plan to wear with the gown, or similar shoes in the exact same heel height, to ensure an accurate hem length. Precise hem and bustle length cannot be pinned without the shoes. Failure to bring the shoes can effect the timing of your alterations process.
Veil or hair accessories: If you plan to wear a veil or hair accessories, you may bring them to the fitting so that you can see how they look with the gown.
Notes and photos: If you have specific alterations in mind or if you want to refer to specific design elements from a photo, bring these notes and photos to the fitting.
The items above do effect the fit and alterations in most case; they are important for your fitting. For specific questions about shoe and undergarment needs, do not hesitate to contact DXN prior to your appointment.
-
If your garment is in need of dry-cleaning, please have this completed prior to bringing it in for a fitting. Dry cleaning a garment before alterations is needed for several reasons, including cleanliness, ease of alterations, improved appearance, and preservation. It's important to choose a reputable dry cleaner who uses gentle cleaning methods and has experience working with delicate fabrics. This helps to ensure that the garment is clean and ready for alterations.
Dry-cleaning is most often needed only for gowns purchased off the rack and vintage gowns.
In addition, please ensure the garment bag is in clean condition and free of pet hair.
-
No, bra cups are available to be sewn into the gown if a bra is not wanted or needed.
-
If you do not have your exact shoes for your fitting appointment, it is only an issue if the length of your gown is needing adjusted. If you need the length adjusted and are not able to bring the exact shoes, you must bring shoes that are VERY similar to your final shoes. Whether they are going to be flats or heels, a similar sole/heel height is the best way to achieve the most accurate length without having the final shoes present.
Questions or concerns about shoes can be discussed prior to your appointment.
-
Projects such as vintage gown re-works, custom designs and extensive garment repairs should be discussed at a Custom Design Consultation appointment. The viability of your request will be determined at this first appointment and should the request be accepted, additional appointments will be required.
To inquire about a custom project, please send a text to 660-262-4181 or an email to info@designsxnadine.com.
-
YES! We have a parking lot directly in front of our building with a ramp leading to our front door.
The bathrooms, however, are not handicap accessible from our level of the building.

