Prom and Homecoming Dress Alterations: How Early to Come In

Every spring my studio fills up with prom dresses. Every fall, homecoming. And every season there are a few girls (and moms) who walk in three days before the dance with a dress that’s four inches too long.

We usually make it work. But it’s a lot easier on everybody when the dress comes in a little earlier.

How early should you bring in a prom dress?

Prom alterations at my studio usually take 5 to 10 days. That’s the work itself. In March and April, though, a lot of dresses arrive at once, so bring yours in as early as you can, ideally 2 to 4 weeks before the dance. That leaves time for a second fitting if we need one, and nobody has to panic.

For homecoming it’s the same idea, just in September and October.

The most common prom alterations

• Hemming. By far the most common. Almost every long dress needs it, especially for shorter girls.
• Taking in the sides or bodice. Store sizes are made for an average body, and nobody is exactly average.
• Straps. Shortening straps that slip, or adding straps to a strapless dress for girls who want to dance without pulling it up all night.
• Cups. Sewing cups into the dress so a bra isn’t needed.
• Slits. Adding one, closing one, or making one lower so it’s school appropriate.
• Bustles. Lifting a long train or skirt so it stays off the floor while you dance.

Bring the shoes. Really.

I say this to every client, but especially to prom clients. Bring the exact shoes you’ll wear to the dance. Not “about the same height.” The hem of a long dress is measured to your shoes, and if you change shoes after the hem is done, the dress will either drag or show your ankles.

Also bring the bra or undergarments you plan to wear. It changes the fit more than you’d think.

Parents, a note for you

It helps if you come to the first fitting. You can see what we’re changing, hear the price, and ask questions. I always give the price before the work starts.

What if something goes wrong right before the dance?

A broken zipper. A strap that pops. A hem that came down when someone stepped on it at the photos. It happens.

Call or text me. If I’m at the studio and can fit you in, I will. One homecoming client, Marion, wrote in her review that I “resolved the issue and saved the day in under 10 minutes.” I can’t promise that every time, but I always try.

Until you get to me, a safety pin on the inside of the dress and a little patience are your best friends. Please don’t try to glue a hem. I’ve seen it, and it doesn’t come out.

How much do prom alterations cost?

Prom alterations start at $150. A simple hem on a single-layer dress is different from a beaded gown with three layers of tulle, so the price depends on the dress. You’ll know it at your fitting before anything is done.