Sew What's Up

Hi Everyone,
I am new to this format and do not sew therefore looking for your expert opinion on who I would consult on what type of piece I could have added to my daughters prom dress to the front bodice to provide her more coverage and give her a more secure feeling. It is a strapless dress and we think a halter strap might work but the issue is that the dress has a crystal bead embellished empire waist bodice so adding a strap may not be easy. There will be material to cut off from the bottom of the dress after it is alterered but not sure if this will look right or if we will need to try to find beading to match the bodice. We have 2 months until the prom so there is time but not much since we have to have it altered. Can anyone offer any recommendations as to how to get started? Thank you so very much. This is her first and last prom. She is a senior and has had medical issues and has not been able to go until this year so I want to make it special for her. Thanks again.

What does your alteration specialist recommend? Have you discussed this with her? She would be in the best position to know since she will be altering the gown. Changing the design of the gown is not an easy or inexpensive task.
Marty

If you are having fabric cut from the bottom of the dress, is it possible to have straps made from that? I had wider straps made for my mother of the bride dress this summer from the excess fabric cut from the bottom.

Without seeing the dress (or at least a photo), there's no real way to know what would look right, such as if you need beading or not. Marty's advice is good: Talk to the person who will be doing the alterations. And Marty is also right that a major change like turning a strapless dress into a halter top can be a lot more expensive than simple hemming....

~ Miss Fleecy

Morning momneedshelp,
I would suggest your local yellow pages first to find 'Alterations/Design' for wedding apparel. Fabric stores often have a bulletin board for business cards of sewers in the area. Good luck especially as this is a very special prom.

NanaBear

DD had a strapless wedding gown and she wanted something to help her feel more secure. The person that altered the dress suggested what looked like sleeves. They were drapey, half circle shaped and the top edge actually was a thin strap over her shoulder. It really added to the dress and to her security for her big day. Maybe something like that could be added using the fabric cut from the hem line.

I agree with Brockie. Only I was thinking more of a sleeveless bolero or short cape type arrangement.