In every teenager’s life, Prom is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Everyone wants to look their best at this event, especially young ladies. They do special shopping on dresses but what to do with the dress once the event is over? Well, prom dresses can be worn on other occasions too. But sometimes, people struggle with their size, fit, and outdated styles. With some simple alteration tips, you can easily rock in your old short & long prom dresses.
Adding or Removing Bra Cups
Bra cups can be a lifesaver when dealing with a prom dress that doesn’t allow for a regular bra. Here’s why they’re a fantastic option:
- Support and Modesty: Bra cups provide the support you need and offer extra modesty.
- Ideal for Strapless or Open-Back Dresses: Strapless or open-back dresses can be stunning, but they often leave you wondering how to maintain the support and coverage you want. Bra cups are the perfect solution for these styles.
- Sewn-In Convenience: Sew cups seamlessly into the bodice of your short & long prom dresses. In this way, these won’t shift or move around.
Exercise caution when dealing with thin or sheer fabrics. In such cases, the cups might be visible through the material and will ruin the overall look of the dress. Choose an expert seamstress and consider options like backless body shapers or stick-on silicone bras for sheer dresses.
Adding a Corset Back or Modesty Panel
A corset back is trendy and lets you adjust the fit by tightening or loosening laces. It can make your dress fit perfectly. If your dress has a zipper but you want a corset, a seamstress can swap them. If your dress already has a corset, you can add a modesty panel underneath for extra cover. You might need matching fabric for it.
Altering Dresses with Embellishments
If your short & long prom dresses have embellishments such as beads, jewels, sequins, or embroidery, you might be wondering if it can still be altered. Here’s what you need to know:
- Placement of Details: The primary consideration is the placement of embellishments on the dress. The process can be more time-consuming if they are concentrated in areas that need alteration.
- Type of Embellishments: The type of the embellishments matters. Beads, jewels, and sequins are usually simple, while intricate embroidery might demand extra care and precision.
- Extent of Alterations: The level of alterations you want will also impact the cost and time involved. Simple adjustments like taking in or hemming are quicker and more affordable, while more complex changes, such as changing the silhouette or neckline, may require additional work.
Consult with an experienced seamstress or tailor to discuss your alteration plans. Their expertise will help you to get the best fit while preserving the beauty of your embellished prom dress.
Adding Illusion Mesh
If your prom dress has cut-outs, an open back, or a deep neckline but you want more coverage, you can add illusion mesh. It helps with school dress codes too. A seamstress can add it to hide skin and provide more coverage.
Adding a Dress Lining
A lining is like a built-in slip for sheer fabrics. It hides seams and gives a smooth finish. If your short & long prom dresses don’t have one, a seamstress can add it. They’ll pick the right fabric and consider closures like zippers and waistbands.
Changing the Dress Neckline
If you want a different neckline, a good seamstress can often change or redo it. Going from a straight or scoop neckline to a sweetheart or v-neck is usually easier than the other way around. They can also fix gaping necklines or add embellishments to your short & long prom dresses.
Sleeves: Adding, Removing, or Changing
When it comes to sleeves on your dress, it’s usually best to let the experts handle it. They can make sleeves fit better or even turn your dress into one without sleeves, like a tank top. If you want to add sleeves, it can be tricky and might cost more, especially if you need fabric matching your dress.
How to Deal with Wrinkles on Your Prom Dress
Wrinkles can ruin your formal dress’s look. You can either have a pro press or steam it. If you want to do it at home, check the care label first. Hang it in the bathroom during a hot shower to let steam remove wrinkles. If that doesn’t work, use a cool iron with a white cloth in between. When storing your short & long prom dresses, make sure it doesn’t touch other clothes to prevent wrinkles or color bleeding.
How to Remove Stains from Your Prom Dress
Act quickly before the stain sets in. Here are some basic tips:
- Treat stains ASAP.
- Rub from the back, not the front.
- Follow care instructions.
- Don’t dry or iron until the stain is gone.
- Blot or scrape, don’t rub.
- Use a clean white towel.
- Follow stain removal product instructions.
Use liquid detergent or laundry detergent with bleach for eye shadow, lipstick, and mascara stains. For concealer, foundation, eye, and lip liner stains, use laundry detergent or a paste of powder detergent and water. Nail polish stains may need nail polish remover. Other stains like ink, grass, coffee, tea, grease, oil, mud, perspiration, blood, and deodorant have specific treatment methods. Always consult professionals when possible.
Conclusions:
Your prom dress is an investment. Preserve it by having it professionally dry cleaned. Store your short & long prom dresses in a cool, dry place, and consider using silica gel packets to prevent moisture and mold. You can also repurpose your dress, pass it down, sell it, or donate it to charity. Proper care ensures it stays in great condition for future use.