Now that you’re familiar with the basic alterations, we’d like to share some ideas to make your dress even more your personality and style! Kira talks about some of the things she has done and often recommends to brides who want to change their dress and make it unique!

What things can be done to a gown in alterations?
With an expert alterations specialist, you can completely re-design your gown if you like! You can add straps to many strapless gowns and make them look as thought they are part of the original design, like our beautiful bride, Margot, below! Many brides like to add covered buttons to the back of their gown. A common change is cutting a sweetheart neckline into a gown with a straight neckline. You can work with your alterations specialist to make it as deep or shallow as you want. On some gowns, it is also possible to raise the neckline! Another common change is taking out a layer or two of crinoline to make your gown less full. This is another change that you can work with your alterations specialist to make it just right! In some cases, it is possible to change the shape of a gown. Many a-line gowns can be taken in and made into a fit and flare or more mermaid shape. These special alterations depend on the construction of your gown, so make sure to check with your bridal consultant or alterations specialist before you purchase a gown.

Margot’s gown was beautiful before, but look how the gorgeous lace straps and bodice took it up a notch!

 

Are there good ways to customize my gown and make it more unique?
There are lots of ways to make your gown truly yours!! I make beautiful fabric flowers that some brides have chosen to add to their gowns. You can also add beaded or lace trim on the bodice or skirt to make your gown stand out. Do remember though that these changes can add up, so be clear about your budget during alterations.

How can I incorporate my mom’s or grandmother’s gown into mine?
There are a few great ways to use an heirloom gown without actually wearing it. We’ve had brides add lace from their mom or grandmother’s gowns or use the covered buttons from an heirloom gown. Many brides also choose to wear a family veil to add a meaningful touch to their wedding day look. Some brides even choose to wear a family gown, but redesign it! I’ve had a couple custom clients who wanted to wear their mom’s gown and made it into their dream dress.

Great ideas, Kira! Remember, you can contact Kira to be your expert alterations specialist! Visit her website at www.kiraelizabethdesigns.com

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We just received the most stunning gown….Rivini “Florissa”!  This gown is from their Spring 2012 collection and is 30% off in our boutique.  Schedule your appointment to try it on today!  Also, remember that we will ship too!

Was: $6490

Now: $4540

Image courtesy of weddinginspirasi.com!

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When it comes to alterations, every bride has A LOT of questions! A skilled alterations specialist can make your gown fit like a glove so it is comfortable and secure all day and all night! But, we have all heard stories of alterations gone bad… To ensure you make the most of your alterations experience, our expert couturier Kira of Kira Elizabeth Designs answers some common questions!

How long will it take to have my wedding gown altered?
We recommend scheduling your first fitting 6 to 8 weeks out from the wedding or your bridal portrait date. If you are doing more than the standard alterations (discussed later!), you may need more time.

How many fittings will I need?
If you are doing only standard alterations, plan for two to three fittings. If you are customizing your gown with special alterations, you may need as many as 6 or 7 fittings!

What will I need to bring for my first fitting?
The number one thing to bring is your shoes! This will determine the length your gown needs to be. If you haven’t decided on shoes, let your alterations specialist know and she will not pin the hem until your next fitting. Keep in mind that may extend the time needed for your alterations! If there is a specific undergarment your would like to wear, bring that as well. If you don’t know what you should wear under your gown, be sure to discuss that with your alterations specialist. She will have good advice on what to wear to make your gown fit the best! Also, if you are planning on losing weight, let your alterations specialist know. She may want to wait to finish the alterations until closer to the wedding when you start maintaining a weight instead of losing!


What are standard alterations?
Nearly every bride will need some alterations to her gown, no matter if she bought a sample or had it special ordered! The most common things are taking in the sides, hemming the gown, and adding a bustle. Gowns don’t come with a bustle because it depends on the length the gown needs to be. Hems are a cause of anxiety for many brides. If your gown has lace or a special detail on the hem, don’t worry! Most times, the hem lace or detail is appliqued on top of the other fabric, so the bottom part can be removed and reattached at the right length. Another option is hemming your gown from the waist. This is a good choice if your gown is too fitted at the hips for your taste because the wider part of the skirt is pulled up. Many brides also decide to add bra cups to their gown so they don’t have as many undergarments to worry about!

What is a bustle and why do I need it?
The bustle is the way a train is pulled up out of the way so the dress is the same length all the way around. Bustles usually use loops and ties, buttons, and snaps to pull the extra fabric up. You’ll want a bustle if you plan to wear your gown at the reception, especially if you will doing your first dance in your gown. The bustle is my favorite part of standard alterations because it can look beautiful, like it is on Lea-Ann Belter “Maya,” below!

Thanks Kira! We hope that this helps all you brides out there looking forward to your alterations process! If you would like Kira to alter YOUR gown, check out her website at www.kiraelizabethdesigns.com or e-mail her at kiraelizabethdesigns@gmail.com

Up Next: Special alterations! Kira talks about ways to make your gown the gown of your dreams!

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Spring Bridal Market in NYC has come and gone and left us with some great new trends in wedding fashion! Find some of the best trends here at Fab Frocks!

Peplums

Christos “Francoise”

Rivini “Nevia”

 
Illusion Necklines

Christos “Simone”

Pronovias “Festin”

Anne Barge “508″

 
Short Dresses

Lula Kate “Pearl Mini”

Lilly Pulitzer “Lexie”

 
Sleeves

Rivini “Oro”

Anne Barge “387″

Anne Barge “366″

 
Layering

Judd Waddell “4086″

Oscar de la Renta “22E35″

Romona Keveza “RK832″

 
Exposed Corseting

Monique Lhuillier “Magical Top and Skirt”

Vera Wang “121510″

 
Lace

Romona Keveza “L853″

Rivini “Leline”

Lazaro “3962″

And these are just a few of the gorgeous gowns we have in stock! Keep checking the website as we update it with new styles coming from our wonderful boutiques!

Up Next: Common alterations FAQ’s with the amazing Kira Elizabeth!

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We have just received two GORGEOUS new gowns!  Each dress is perfect for the Charleston bride!

Jim Hjelm 8958 is a stunning full Alencon lace gown with a v-neck and v-back.  This dress is perfect for the bride who wants a “vintage” look, or the bride with traditional tastes.  This gorgeous gown is only $2200!  This is a steal for full lace!

This simple Legends by Romona Keveza gown is perfect for a bride wanting simple elegance.  Even better…it is so lightweight and comfortable!   This gown can be yours for only $1350!

Give us a call to set up your appointment to try on these lovely gowns.  They are going to fly out the door, so hurry!

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Save an additional 10% off any gown in the store through Saturday, February 4th!
In celebration of our 2nd birthday, we are giving an additional 10% off all of our gowns!  Gowns are already reduced 30 to 50% off the retail price.

Some of our Designers include:

Monique Lhuillier
Vera Wang
Amsale
Christos
Anne Barge
Rivini
Judd Waddell
Watters
Melissa Sweet

Call 843.754.1855 to set up an appointment!  Visit www.fabulousfrocksofcharleston.com to view our entire selection of gowns!

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Designer: Rivini
Gown Name: Nevia
Condition: Sample
Color: Ivory
Dress Size: 10
Street Size: 8
Alterations: no
Original Retail: $4,300
Our Price: $1,800

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If you have spent any time at all lately flipping through bridal magazines or browsing wedding blogs, then you surely have noticed that short dresses have made an impact on the runway the last few seasons.  The best part about this wedding trend is that it could work for any bride and can be applied in many different ways!

For the Non-Traditional Bride, this trend works great because it is a way to steer away from the typical long dress that the most brides choose.  Once you have decided to go short, there are many avenues for you to explore.

Oh Vintage Bride, you can sail right back into 1950s or 60s with your short or tea length  gown.  A fitted bodice and a full skirt will help you on your quest back in time!  Don’t forget your bird cage veil or little white gloves to finish off the look that your sentimental heart desires.

Destination Bride, we haven’t forgotten about you.  This look is perfect for your great escape!  It can be dressy or casual; that part is all about the style of your getaway.  The major plus–they travel well!


For those brides who still want long for their wedding ceremony, there are several ways to incorporate this trend into your Big Day.

Party Girl Bride, get excited!  Having a reception or after party dress might just enable you have your cake and party too!  With a short dress, you will have no problem dancing the night away and even continuing on after the rose petals are thrown.

Classic Bride, you can participate too!  Your mom probably had a going away outfit.  In all likelihood, it was probably a cute dress, colorful suit, or maybe dress with a matching knee length overcoat a la Jackie Kennedy.  You can update this classic element, by heading off in a short white number!  Mom won’t be disappointed.

Not up for going short at the wedding, this trend can easily carry over into other wedding weekend events like the rehearsal dinner!

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Designer: Reem Acra
Gown Name: 4010
Condition: Sample
Color: Ivory
Dress Size: 10
Street Size: 6
Alterations: None
Original Retail: $7300
Our Price: $4500

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Unless you have been living under a rock, you know that America’s Sweetheart, Reese Witherspoon, is Legally wed!  Perhaps a nod to her pink obsessed character, Elle Woods, or maybe because Reese is ever the fashionista, the bride wore a blush hued Monique Lhuillier gown down the aisle when she wed her fiancé, Jim Toth, on March 26th at her home in Ojai, California.  Regardless of the reason behind her color choice, it was simply amazing!  (See below)

Top designers have really taken the adage “blushing bride” to a new level with these pink tinted gowns that hit the runways and this trend is really catching on!

Amsale Aberra, the designer of Christos, debuted one of the most talked about gowns of the season, “Kandace”, at her latest runway show.  It just so happens that Fabulous Frocks has this gown ready for you to try!  In addition to its fabulous color, “Kandace” features gorgeous floral detailing at the waist and a beautiful organza petal inspired textured ball gown!  Need something else to love about this gown?  It has a gorgeous organza sash to complement the bride’s waist!

Lea Ann Belter also has a great blush gown that is available at Fabulous Frocks. “Allison” is also a ball gown, and it has the most beautiful beaded neckline that makes this bodice to die for!

One of us at Fabulous Frocks has a bit of an obsession with pink! Okay, it’s me, Mary.  In fact, I am planning a May wedding that is Lilly Pulitzer meets Steel Magnolias (minus the pink bunting below).  Growing up I dreamed of the day that I could be like Shelby and announce “my colors are blush and bashful!  Two shades of pink, one is much deeper than the other…Pink is my signature color!” or shout out “My reception, my reception!”  It is no surprise to anyone that knows me that I think this trend is “too perfect for words!”  (Yes, I can quote this movie for days!)

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