What to Bring to Your Bridal Fitting – A Complete Guide

Your wedding dress fitting is one of the most exciting moments leading up to your big day. This is when your gown truly becomes yours, tailored to fit you perfectly. But to make the most of your fitting, it’s essential to come prepared. Bringing the right items ensures a smooth process and helps your seamstress create the best possible result. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to bring to your bridal fitting, what to expect, and expert tips for a stress-free experience.

Must-Have Items for Your Bridal Fitting

1. Your Wedding Dress

It may seem obvious, but don’t forget your gown! Whether you purchased it new, secondhand, or had it custom-made, your seamstress will need the actual dress to make any necessary alterations. If your dress has multiple layers, a long train, or delicate beading, bring a garment bag to keep it protected.

2. Proper Undergarments

The right undergarments are essential for your bridal fitting because they directly impact how your wedding gown fits and feels. Many alterations are made with your specific undergarments in mind—whether it’s a strapless bra, shapewear, or a corset—so changing them later can alter the fit of your dress.

For example:

• Support & Structure – A different bra could change your bust positioning, affecting the way the bodice fits.

• Shapewear & Silhouette – If you plan to wear shapewear, it helps smooth and contour your figure. Switching to a different style
later might make the dress too loose or too tight.

• Hemline Length – Even your underwear choice can affect how a dress falls, especially if it’s a form-fitting silhouette.

To ensure the most precise fit, always bring the same undergarments you plan to wear on your wedding day to every fitting. If you’re unsure what works best, your seamstress can offer guidance on the ideal options for your gown! Depending on the style of your gown, you may need:

• A strapless or backless bra or body tape

• Shapewear for added support and a smooth silhouette

• Seamless nude underwear to prevent visible lines

If you’re unsure what will work best, ask your seamstress for recommendations before your fitting.

3. Wedding Shoes (or Shoes of the Same Heel Height)

Your seamstress needs to see how your dress falls when you’re standing in your wedding shoes. The hem length, bustle placement, and overall fit depend on the height of your heels (or flats!). If you haven’t found the exact pair, bring a similar heel height for accurate alterations.

4. Accessories & Veil

If you plan to wear a veil, jewelry, or other bridal accessories, bring them along. Seeing the full look during your fitting helps you visualize how everything comes together and ensures there are no last-minute surprises on your wedding day.

5. Hair Ties or Clips

Bringing a hair tie or clip is especially useful if your dress has a detailed bodice or delicate straps. Pulling your hair back allows your seamstress to make precise adjustments without obstruction.

6. A Trusted Friend or Family Member

Bring one or two people whose opinions you trust, such as your maid of honor, a parent, or a close friend. Too many voices can make the process overwhelming. Choose someone who will be supportive and constructive throughout your fitting.

7. Inspiration Photos (Optional)

If you’re considering custom alterations—such as adding sleeves, adjusting the neckline, or modifying embellishments—bring inspiration photos. This will help your seamstress understand your vision.

8. Payment & Scheduling Information

Most bridal seamstresses require a deposit at your first fitting, with the balance due before pick-up. Make sure to bring your preferred form of payment. Also, confirm your fitting schedule—alterations typically take 2-3 months, and multiple fittings may be needed.

What to Expect at Your Fitting

Your first fitting is all about assessing how your dress fits and determining what alterations are needed. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Trying on the dress – Your seamstress will evaluate the fit and note adjustments.

2. Pinning and marking – Changes such as hem adjustments, strap alterations, or bodice tweaks will be pinned.

3. Discussion of customizations – If you’re considering adding sleeves, modifying lace, or making other custom changes,
now is the time to discuss them.

4. Scheduling follow-up fittings – Most dresses require 2-3 fittings before they’re ready for pickup.

Final Tips for a Successful Bridal Fitting

• Avoid wearing makeup or getting a spray tan – This helps prevent stains on your gown.

• Speak up – If something doesn’t feel comfortable or you don’t like how something looks, let your seamstress know!

• Bring a bustle buddy – If your dress has a bustle, bring someone to learn how to bustle it properly.

• Book early – Bridal alterations specialists book up fast. Aim to schedule your first fitting at least 3 months before your wedding
to ensure enough time for adjustments.

Bringing the right items to your bridal fitting ensures a stress-free and productive experience. From the perfect undergarments to a trusted opinion, being prepared makes all the difference. If you haven’t booked your alterations yet, schedule your fitting as soon as possible to ensure your dress is ready in time for your big day!