A prom dress is often the first truly special outfit a young person chooses. It deserves to fit beautifully, so they can enjoy the evening rather than tug at straps or worry about tripping on the hem.
Golden Button offers prom dress alterations from the workshop at 41 Bargates in Christchurch, and welcomes families from Highcliffe, Southbourne, Bournemouth and the surrounding area.
What we can help with
- Hems on single and multi-layered skirts
- Shortening or adjusting straps
- Taking in the bodice and side seams
- Replacing or repairing zips
- Converting a zip to a lace-up back where the design allows
- Working around sequins, beading and embellishment
- Small repairs to tulle and chiffon
When to plan the fitting
Arrange the first fitting once the dress has arrived and the shoes are chosen. Prom season is busy for dressmakers everywhere, so leaving a comfortable margin before the date is always wise. Ring to talk through timings.
Delicate fabrics take extra care
Sequinned and beaded fabrics often need embellishment removed along a seam and then hand-replaced once the alteration is finished. It is slower, careful work, which is why a conversation at the first fitting is so useful.
What to bring
Please bring the dress, the shoes and any underwear or shapewear that will be worn on the night. A parent or friend is very welcome to come along.
The photograph on this page is illustrative. Golden Button will add photographs of real prom work in due course.
Frequently asked questions
Can a prom dress bought online be altered?
Usually, yes. Many online dresses need hems and straps adjusting. Bring it in as soon as it arrives so the fit can be assessed.
How many fittings will we need?
Often one or two, depending on the work. Dorota will suggest what is sensible at the first visit.