Customizing Your Something White
Customizing Your Something White
When shopping for the dress, many brides fall in love with a gown that’s almost perfect. The great news? Most designers offer a range of customizations that can turn “almost” into “absolutely.” Whether you're seeking modesty, comfort, or just a personal touch, small changes can go a long way. Here are a few of the most popular bridal gown customizations to consider:
1. Adding Lining to a Sheer Bodice
Many modern wedding gowns feature illusion or sheer bodices—a beautiful look, but not for everyone. Whether you want more coverage or simply prefer a more traditional look, all of our designers can add a lining to the bodice.
Why brides love this:
Provides more modesty without sacrificing design.
Creates a more structured, supportive fit.
Can make the dress ceremony-appropriate for certain religious settings.
2. Adding Sleeves (or Modifying Existing Ones)
Sleeves are having a major moment, long lace sleeves, detachable puff sleeves, delicate cap sleeves, you name it. Whether your gown is strapless or has sleeves, many designers can add custom sleeves or modify the style of existing ones.
Sleeve options include:
Long illusion lace sleeves
Off-the-shoulder sleeves
Detachable tulle or satin puff sleeves
Simple cap or flutter sleeves
Why brides love this:
Adds romance and a timeless feel.
Offers more coverage for cool weather or modesty preferences.
Easily changes the entire silhouette and vibe of the dress.
Pro Tip: Ask your bridal stylist if the designer can customize sleeves. If not, no worries! We can order extra fabric for these to be fashioned during alterations.
3. Changing the Fabric
Love the silhouette but not the fabric? It’s more customizable than you may think. Some designers allow brides to change out fabrics to better suit their taste or season.
Common fabric swaps include:
Replacing satin with crepe for a lighter, sleeker look
Swapping tulle for organza for a more structured skirt
Choosing matte fabrics over shiny ones (or vice versa)
Things to consider:
Fabric changes may affect how the gown drapes and moves.
Timelines may be longer for custom fabric requests.
Some designers only allow fabric swaps within certain collections.
4. Mixing and Matching Bodices and Skirts (Within Certain Designers)
Some bridal designers allow brides to mix and match bodices and skirts within their collection to create a custom look.
Examples:
Pairing a structured satin corset bodice with a flowy chiffon skirt
Combining a sparkly beaded top with a minimalist crepe trumpet skirt
Swapping a lace A-line skirt for a dramatic tulle ballgown bottom
Why brides love this:
Allows for a fully unique design without going fully custom
Tailors the gown to your exact figure and style preferences
A Few Final Tips for Customizing Your Gown
Talk to your bridal consultant early: Not all customizations are possible for all gowns or designers.
Expect longer lead times: Customizations can add about 1 month to your gown’s arrival time.
Be clear on pricing: Customizations often incur additional fees—ask for a detailed breakdown.
Visualize the end result: Try to see similar styles in the store, or ask your stylist to see a photo of the customization if available.
Your wedding dress should feel like you, and a few smart customizations can make all the difference. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and get creative—after all, this is your moment to shine!