What we can do
Hems and layers
We’ll shorten the skirt to the length you love, working around its shape, lining and any lace or beading at the edge. Layered dresses get each layer finished so they all fall together.
Bodice, waist and hips
Taking in or letting out the seams can transform how a dress sits on your body. How much room we can add depends on the seam allowance, and we’ll tell you as soon as we’ve had a look.
Straps, sleeves and necklines
Slipping straps, sleeves that are too long or a neckline you’d like to change? We’ll pin it on you and talk through the options before we start.
Lace, beads and repairs
Loose beading, a split seam or a damaged detail can usually be fixed. Delicate fabrics get extra care, and we’ll show you how the repair is likely to look first.
How much does it cost?
The fabric, lining, number of hem layers, embellishments and how much fitting work you need all affect the price.
| Alteration | Indicative price |
|---|---|
Dress hemmingVery full, multi-layered or embellished hems are quoted in store.Extras
| $35–$120 |
These are guides for the named alteration on one garment, not fixed quotes or maximum prices. Listed extras are added to the guide price and can be combined. Fabric, finish, construction and any other extra work can change the price, so we’ll always check your garment and confirm the quote before we start. Express surcharges are extra.
Price guide reviewed 20 October 2026.
Planning your dress fitting
Day dresses, evening dresses and full skirts
Taking up a straight day dress is a very different job from shortening a full skirt or a lined evening gown. We look at each layer, the width of the hem and any lace or border you want to keep. Too short? We’ll look for spare fabric in the hem, or talk about whether an added panel would suit the design.
Balancing the bodice, straps and skirt
Shortening the straps lifts the bodice and changes where the waist sits. Taking in the sides can affect the zip, armholes or a decorative detail. That’s why we fit the whole dress on you. Tell us what feels uncomfortable and how you want it to look, and bring the shoes and undergarments you’ll wear, so we can plan the changes together.
Your questions
How early should I bring my dress in?
The sooner the better, especially if you have an event coming up. Once we’ve seen the dress, we’ll give you a pickup date that works with your deadline.
Do you alter wedding dresses too?
We sure do! Our wedding dress page covers bridal fittings, bustles and alterations for the whole wedding party.
Does the hem price apply to each layer?
No. The guide is based on the dress hems we’ve actually done, and it isn’t a per-layer charge. We’ll quote your dress once we’ve seen the fabric, lining, fullness and any embellishments. Complex hems can cost more than the guide.
Can you change a neckline or add sleeves?
Often, yes. Bring the dress and any inspiration photos, and we’ll work out whether there’s enough fabric or whether we’d need to add some.
Can I pin the dress at home?
Feel free to mark the spots that bother you, but please don’t cut or unpick anything. Bring the dress in as it is, so we can check how it hangs and moves and get the finish you want.
How long will the work take, and is express available?
Most simple jobs are ready in 3–5 days, and more complex work in 1–2 weeks. In a rush? Express options are available for an extra fee. Just tell us your deadline. Express rates are 30% for same-day, 20% for next-day and 10% for two-day work, or 40% for same-day and 30% for next-day on Saturdays. Express depends on how busy we are, so we’ll confirm it and your pickup time before we start.