Last Updated on May 9, 2023 by Alterations Express Staff

So, how much DO dress alterations cost? The truth is: dress alterations can become complex and complicated. And because of this, providing cost estimates that encompass a wide range of dress styles, designs, materials, etc., can be a bit difficult. But we’re gonna try our best to provide you with the most in-depth information about dress alterations and pricing. Read on to learn how much it costs to alter a dress. 

Looking for the cost of wedding dress alterations? Check out more of our content here. 

Quick Links:

• Formal vs. Casual Dresses
• How much does it cost to alter a dress?

A Few Things to Consider: 

Here are a couple of things to consider before we talk about the price of dress alterations. Remember that garment construction is the most important factor in determining the cost of alterations. Regarding dresses and garment construction, consider these questions: 

• Does the dress have multiple layers? 
• Does the dress have a lining? 
• Is there a zipper? If so, how much material is parallel to the zipper? Where is the zipper located?
• Where are the seams of the dress? i.e. where can the material be taken in?
• Does the dress have a corset or boning? 
• Does the dress have beading or sequins? 
• What kind of material is the dress made out of? i.e. silk, chiffon, horsehair, cotton, wool, etc. 
• Does the dress have straps?
• Does the dress have vents or panels? i.e. a slit 
• How wide is the hem of the dress?

After you’ve considered all of these factors, then you can consider what your individual needs are for dress alterations. Is the dress too big for you? Too small? Is it too long? Does it fit you in the bustline? Are the straps too long? Do you have extra material on the sides that need to be taken in? 

A Little Advice..

Here’s a tip about pricing for alterations: Tailors and seamstresses will not charge you more if you’re having a dress hemmed 2 inches or 10 inches – the amount of material doesn’t matter because they’re performing the same alteration to get the same result, regardless of length. Alterations are priced based on the amount of time that a certain alteration takes a seamstress or tailor and the number of different alterations that are being performed on a dress. 

For example: If you need alterations done to a prom dress that has 4 layers and is made from horsehair, the alterations will cost significantly more than, say, a prom dress that has two layers and is made from silk and chiffon. 

Multiple layers on a dress require more time for the seamstress to hem the length of the dress. And horsehair is drastically harder to alter compared to other materials like silk. 

Formal vs. Casual Dresses

Another important aspect to consider about dress alterations is the type of dress and the occasion. Most alteration shops and tailors will price formal dress alterations to be more expensive than casual dress alterations. This is mainly because of the difference in garment construction between casual and formal dresses, as well as the different types of fabric typically used for formal dresses as opposed to casual. Most casual dresses are constructed out of cotton or rayon material, making alterations easier to perform. Formal dresses are usually made out of silk, chiffon, or polyester, which are typically harder to work with. 

When you’re forecasting the cost of dress alterations, make sure to consider the type of dress you are looking to get altered. And, also consider the fabric of the dress too.

Cost of Dress Alterations

Check out our cost estimates for how much alterations cost for formal and casual dress alterations below. 

Formal Dresses: 

Hem: $30 – $120

Taper: $25 – $65

Take-in: $25 – $135

Adjust Shoulders/Straps: $25 – $55

Shorten/Lengthen Sleeves: $30 – $55

Replace Zipper: $30 – $45

Casual Dresses: 

Hem: $18 – $65

Taper: $15 – $55

Take-in: $18 – $45

Adjust Shoulders/Straps: $15 – $45

Shorten/Lengthen Sleeves: $20 – $45

Replace Zipper: $20 – $40

On average, formal dress alterations usually cost anywhere from $45 to $150, depending on the amount of work that is needed. Alterations for casual dresses usually cost between $35 to $100 to complete. Visit Airtasker.com to find out more about dress alterations. 

Obviously, we’re a little partial — but we truly believe that alterations can transform your wardrobe and help you feel your best in your clothing. We hope this information helps you get a better idea about how much dress alterations will cost you. Learn more about how we can help with your formal dress alterations!