We are currently immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of Plus Size Bridal Week at The Curvy Fashionista—where romance flourishes and fashion tailored for curves takes the spotlight. Throughout this enchanting week, we are honoring the beauty, diversity, and unique style of plus size brides. From our comprehensive overview of size-inclusive bridal brands to our detailed guide on shopping for your silhouette, this series is dedicated to empowering you to say “I do” to a look that truly represents you. Today, we are spotlighting a crucial aspect of your bridal journey: everything you need to understand about plus size bridal alterations.
Today, we are going behind the seams to explore a topic that often flies under the radar: plus size bridal alterations. While finding the perfect dress is just the beginning, ensuring it fits as if it was custom-made for your body is where the real transformation—and confidence—occurs.
To navigate this essential process, we connected with Pamela Nanton, a seasoned designer and alterations expert from PLY Apparel. With over three decades of experience in crafting gowns for fuller figures, Pamela possesses the expertise to make any dress work—and she’s ready to share vital insights about what plus size brides truly need to know.
Understanding the Importance of Bridal Alterations for Plus Size Brides
Let’s clarify: bridal alterations are essential, not optional. As noted by Brides.com, nearly every wedding gown—regardless of size—requires some form of tailoring to achieve that perfect fit (Brides.com, 2023). However, for plus size brides, the journey often involves additional intricacies that make alterations even more crucial.
Pamela frequently encounters this issue:
“Many brides are unaware that alterations CAN be performed. In most scenarios, individuals simply don’t know,” she states. “I wish more bridal shops and online retailers would educate brides about their available options. Budget-Budget-Budget! This process can be expensive. If you aim to keep costs low, be explicit about what you wish to prioritize.”
She also highlights that estimating the cost of alterations, particularly for bridal gowns, can be quite challenging:
“Many alterations are difficult to price precisely because we cannot determine what lies beneath the existing dress.”
Thus, while fit is paramount, so is choosing the right professional to handle the adjustments.
Navigating the Alteration Process: What Plus Size Brides Can Anticipate
If you’re stepping into the realm of fittings and alterations for the first time, there’s no need to panic—here’s the typical sequence you can expect:
- First Fitting (3–4 months before the wedding): Initial assessment and pinning of adjustments.
- Second Fitting (1–2 months before): Refinement and reshaping of the gown.
- Final Fitting (2–3 weeks before): Ensuring every detail is impeccable.
However, these timelines can vary significantly, especially depending on the gown style and the bride’s unique body shape.
Pamela explains:
“Oooo weee and yikes! That’s a tough commitment to make. Typically, if it involves reducing circumference and shortening the hem or straps—depending on current workload—it may take 2–4 weeks. If all the pinning is accurate, a second fitting may not be necessary. BUT—remember to wear your shoes and undergarments.”
Absolutely: bring everything you plan to wear on your big day. It makes a significant difference.
Essential Plus Size Bridal Alterations to Consider for Your Dress
Curves come in a myriad of shapes, which means that alterations must be tailored specifically for each bride. Here are some common alterations that Pamela frequently addresses:
- Adjusting bodices for enhanced bust support
- Adding or resizing sleeves and straps for comfort and style
- Shortening hems to accommodate petite plus sizes
- Incorporating bustles for ease of movement
However, it’s not merely about the technical adjustments—it’s also about honest communication. Pamela emphasizes the importance of transparency:
“Brides MUST be truthful about their size. The correct or closest size must be chosen. There’s no reason to waste anyone’s time by opting for a smaller size with the hope of losing weight… A seam is a seam, regardless of whether you are a size 2 or a size 20. Precision and care are essential in any sewing process.”
She also shares insights regarding different silhouettes:
“PLUS encompasses a variety of body types. If you’re high-waisted with a lower belly, empire waist seams and fuller skirts tend to look great. For those who are long-waisted with a larger bottom, a slimmer gown with a back ruffle or trumpet skirt could be an excellent choice. But brides should try on multiple styles, and do NOT go through this process alone.”
Selecting the Right Seamstress for Curvy Gowns
This aspect is crucial: finding the right tailor can significantly impact your experience.
Pamela advises:
“Look for someone who has been performing alterations for at least a decade. If they only sew, it’s vital to have another expert who specializes in fittings within the fashion design industry.”
She understands that trust is fundamental in the fitting room, especially for brides who may have faced challenges in the past.
“I strive to reassure my clients that I indeed know what I’m doing and that they are in capable hands. I’m an expert with over thirty years of experience. I take pride in being an excellent communicator—which is essential. It’s daunting when someone has a bad alteration experience or when a seamstress fails to respond.”
In fact, Pamela has even conducted remote consultations via FaceTime for brides who were in the midst of fittings with other professionals and felt that their plus size bridal alterations were not progressing correctly.
That exemplifies her commitment.
Inspiring Alteration Success Stories: Real Experiences from the Field
When asked to share a memorable moment, Pamela immediately recalled:
“It was back in 2016, and she was incredibly busty, traveling over an hour just to see me. Her budget was nearly non-existent. She had a dress that was too large—she was approximately a size 26—and the entire bodice required a complete overhaul, needing to be removed and reconstructed using new fabric. I made NO profit from this job, but her satisfaction was my reward.”
And that showcases the incredible impact of expertise in plus size fashion—and the heart behind the work.
Pamela’s Essential Advice for Plus Size Brides Navigating Alterations
We asked Pamela to share her top recommendations for curvy brides as they navigate the process of plus size bridal alterations:
- Be truthful about your current size. Wishful thinking only complicates the fitting experience.
- Bring all your wedding-day essentials—shoes, undergarments, shapewear—every time.
- Start the process early and budget realistically. Exceptional work requires time and skill—honor your timeline and your tailor’s expertise.
Alterations go beyond simply adjusting a dress—they involve forming it to you, with love, skill, and understanding. For plus size brides, having that level of support can be life-changing. The right alterations expert doesn’t just tailor your dress—they celebrate your beauty, your body, and your joy.
Pamela Nanton of PLY Apparel exemplifies the magic that occurs when expertise converges with intention.
Stay tuned for additional bridal insights throughout Plus Size Bridal Week, and don’t forget to follow us on IG and Pinterest for exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses and ample style inspiration.
