Anyone had BM dresses made by a dress maker?

My local dressmaker charges £150-£180 max for bridesmaids & £750-£800 max for bridal- no alteration costs as all included. I thought this was pretty good as shops were all £180-£240 plus alterations which you will have to get a dressmaker to do anyway. Not sure how this compares?

Thank-you.

I haven't contacted any yet as I didn't want to embarrass myself if they were ridiculously expensive!

I will do now though, as like you say, those prices compare with bridal shops!

I really wouldn't worry about that! Honestly I think dressmakers are much better value and you can take in pics of what you want and they will do it for you or you can pick one of the styles they will have on show. I have called some shops up to check what price range their dresses are before booking an appointment and some said their bridesmaids were £400 region and one was £5000 for brides! Too much for me. I think I'll get my wedding dress from a shop as I have seen one I like but bm's from dressmaker!

Thanks :-)

Do you usually need a picture of what you want before they will give you a price?

I know the style I want and material, but don't know exact design just yet.

ExcitedEssexBrideToBe can I ask the name/details of the dressmaker near you? I'm looking for one in Essex that is reasonable.. Thanks!

Hi, No I asked and the lady said she didn't need any pics at first stage, just pop along and get an idea of colour and material. If you already have that then your halfway there! I think dressmakers are generally flexible and will discuss ideas with you- then you can develop the dress together. You may get some inspiration from others made. I was recommended the one I'm using by others and she makes christening gowns and mother of bride too. Teresa at Www.polkafashions.co.uk. Email ******@*************.**.**. If you have something very detailed in mind it maybe more expensive but best to contact and go from there.

Fantastic, Thanks so much!

I've hired a dress maker & she's quoted £75-85 for full length dresses!

Wow that a great price! Where is she based? It's interesting to know as I wasn't sure what dressmakers charge generally.

She's near me in the West Midlands hun. I still can't believe the price, I'm so pleased. I've seen her work before, that's how I got her number x

Could you pass on her details to me please SarahW73? I also live in the West Midlands, so sounds perfect! x

My friend had her BM dresses made, they were £160 each