Common prom dress fit problems and how they are solved

Off-the-peg rarely means perfect

Prom dresses are made to standard measurements, but very few people match them exactly. Online purchases add another layer of uncertainty. The good news is that the common problems are familiar to any dressmaker.

The hem is too long

This is the most frequent issue, particularly with full-length gowns. Single-layer skirts are fairly straightforward. Multi-layered tulle or chiffon skirts need each layer shortening separately and slightly differently, so they fall evenly. Hems with horsehair braid or beading need extra care.

Straps slip or the bodice sits too low

Shortening straps lifts the whole bodice, often solving gaping at the neckline at the same time. Strapless dresses that slip down usually need taking in at the side seams, and sometimes extra support, such as stay tape, adding inside.

The bodice gapes or is too loose

Taking in the side seams or back is the usual answer. Where the dress has a corset back, the lacing can be adjusted. On beaded or sequinned bodices, embellishment along the seam is carefully removed, the seam altered, and the decoration replaced by hand.

The zip will not close or has broken

Cheaper zips can fail under strain. A replacement zip of better quality usually solves the problem. In some designs, a zip can be converted into a lace-up back, which gives a little flexibility in fit.

A practical checklist

Before the fitting, try the dress on at home and note:

• Where it feels tight or loose.
• Whether you can sit, walk and raise your arms comfortably.
• Whether the hem catches on your shoes.
• Any loose threads, sequins or beads.