How long do alterations take?
PLEASE NOTE: Our books are currently closed to clients that are not Belle Atelier brides.
We can only accept projects that are 12 weeks from your booking date.
Please email us if you have a rush wedding date to see if we can add you to our Workroom list hello@theworkroomatbelle.com
We only take alterations appointments on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
Regular Alterations: We budget three to four weeks for ready-to-wear alterations. Your first consultation and fitting usually suffices and you can pick up your clothing at your next appointment.
Bridal Alterations: Bridal alterations typically need 12 weeks. If you need a quicker turnaround, we can usually accommodate the request, but may have to charge a rush fee if it is during our busy season, always check with our staff through email before booking a rush.
After our initial consultation, where we determine exactly what you need and want done to your dress, we will schedule 2-3 additional fitting appointments. The first fitting involves work on the upper part of your dress, the hem and bustle. The Second fitting is there for clients who require more work. The third visit is only for clients whose gowns have extensive work, we do our best to get the work done in 1-2 fittings (3 visits total). Our goal is to finish your dress two weeks before your wedding or sooner depending on your request.
Fitting and appointments for Bridal alterations:
Consultation 12 weeks before wedding
First Fitting: 3-4 weeks after consult
Final Fitting: 3-4 weeks after first fitting
Pick Up/Additional fitting: 2-4 weeks later
Price: Pricing depends on how extensive the work is. If you are only needing work on the bodice that is typically $475-$675. If you are only needing your hem and bustle that is typically $475-$775. If you are needing both bodice and hem/bustle the range is $850-$1,300 and up.
What does the custom design process look like?
We require at least 6 months for custom work. If you need something quicker there may be additional rush fees. We start by looking at pictures or other inspiration you have provided. After taking your measurements, we determine the type of fabric we will use to complete the garment. We have relationships with quality fabric stores in both Chicago and New York, so we can source the exact fabric you're looking for. We then create a basic cotton muslin version of your masterpiece to make sure it fits you perfectly before we start cutting into your chosen fabric. We create as many appointments as necessary to ensure you have that perfect, tailored fit.
What do you charge for alterations and custom design?
Our services are $150 an hour. Pricing varies, depending on the time and effort required for each particular job. We are certain that we will be able to accommodate your customized needs at a fair and competitive price, and that you'll be thrilled with the end results and value of our expert, quality workmanship. The price that is quoted at your initial consultation will always be the price we honor, unless more work is requested or we contact you to approve a price increase.
Do you provide cleaning and pressing services?
We cannot professionally press or steam our garments, we recommend that our clients go to the best in the city, Davis Imperial Cleaners. They will pick up your garments from our Wicker Park location and hand deliver them to your door when they are finished. They service Hyde Park to the South Loop, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, north to Lake Forest, and west to Barrington. FabricareByMail™ service available nationwide upon request.
Feel free to contact us directly with any additional questions.
hello@theworkroomatbelle.com