One of the most common moments at a bridal appointment is finding a gown that's almost right. Maybe you love the skirt but want sleeves, or the bodice is perfect but you'd like more coverage. At our Paramus boutique, that usually doesn't mean starting over. Many designer gowns can be customized.
What can be changed
Sleeves and straps, from delicate straps to full couture sleeves.
Necklines and coverage, including raising a neckline or adding coverage.
Back designs, reshaped or refined to suit you.
Trains and skirts, adjusted in length and shape.
Modest details, for brides who want more coverage. See our modest wedding dresses for gowns that start close to that look.
Fabric, lining and texture, upgraded or changed.
Embellishment, added or adjusted by hand.
A matching veil, made to go with your gown.
Two ways it happens
Factory customizations are made by the gown's designer before it's produced. We coordinate the changes with the fashion house, so your gown is made with them from the start. That means they're decided when you order.
In-store customizations happen after your gown arrives. Our in-house designer can add hand-sewn embellishment or restructure parts of the bodice or skirt.
Many brides use a combination of both, and your designer will recommend the simplest way to get the result you want.
Customized or fully custom?
Customizing starts from an existing designer gown. A custom gown starts from a blank page: a sketch, a pattern drafted for you, a muslin fitted to your measurements, and then the final gown in the fabrics you choose. Custom gowns start at $5,000. Read more about both.
How to plan for it
Bring photos. Save pictures of sleeves, necklines or backs you love. They make it much easier to explain what you have in mind.
Mention changes early. Factory customizations are built into your order, so bring them up while you're choosing your gown. We recommend starting your search 10 to 12 months before your wedding.
Ask about cost first. Ask what each change adds to the price before you decide, so there are no surprises.
Start with the gown you love
Browse our designers, then book a consultation and bring the ideas you've saved. We'll show you what can be changed and how.