Women's Wear Alterations
Welcome to City Tailors services
Dress Alterations
Expert Dress Alterations in Brighton & Bath
A dress should sit smoothly, feel comfortable, and fall at the right length – especially once you add the shoes and underwear you plan to wear.
At City Tailors, we carry out dress alterations in Brighton and Bath with careful fitting. We pin the changes on you, explain the cleanest options, and finish the work so it still looks like your dress – just fitting far better.
If you’d rather start from scratch for a special event, we can also make a dress made-to-measure (and offer true bespoke if you need a one-of-one design) – ask about our Ladies’ Made-to-Measure & Bespoke service.
Common fit problems we fix
- Dress too long or too short
- Loose or tight waist
- Pulling across bust or hips
- Straps slipping or digging in
- Uneven hemline
- Gaping neckline or back
- Zip or fastening issues
- Uncomfortable fit when sitting or moving
What to Expect at Your Dress Alterations Fitting
We’ll check how the dress sits, pin the adjustments, and talk you through the options (for example, different hem finishes).
You’ll get a clear quote and timescale before we start any work.
Our services
- Dress hemming (plain, lined, layered)
- Taking in or letting out dresses
- Waist, bust, and hip shaping
- Strap shortening or reshaping
- Sleeve shortening or removal
- Neckline and back reshaping
- Zip replacement or repair
- Adjustments for casual, formal, and evening dresses
Typical starting prices
Prices vary with fabric, lining, construction, and the finish you choose. These starting prices are a practical guide - we confirm the quote after we see the garment (or your design brief).
| Service | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
|
Shorten (unlined) |
from £20.00 |
|
Shorten (lined) |
from £35.00 |
|
Take in side seams (unlined) |
from £25.00 |
|
Take in side seams (lined) |
from £45.00 |
|
Straps shorten |
from £25.00 |
Available in Bath & Brighton
We offer in-person fittings at both branches. Choose the most convenient location and book one consultation appointment (same booking flow for both).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do dress alterations take?
A: Most standard dress alterations take 5-10 working days. Urgent services may be available-please ask during your fitting.
Should I bring my shoes?
A: Yes – bring the shoes you plan to wear. Heel height can change the hem length noticeably.
Do you alter delicate or embellished dresses?
A: Yes. We regularly work with delicate fabrics, lace, sequins, and beading, and handle them with care.
Do you work on designer dresses?
A: We do. We’ll match the original finish where possible and keep changes discreet.
Can you do it quickly?
A: Yes, if you need an express turnaround, ask at booking and we’ll confirm what’s realistic.
Can you copy my favourite dress?
A: Often, yes. Bring the dress in and we can discuss fabric options and recreate a similar shape and fit (with any tweaks you’d like).
Do I need an appointment?
A: Walk-ins are welcome, but we recommend booking a consultation so a tailor is free to give you and your garment proper, unhurried attention for an accurate fitting.
Book Your Dress Alterations
Bring the dress in, try it on, and we’ll pin the fit properly. You’ll leave knowing exactly what will be done, what it will cost, and when it will be ready.
