The temptation to buy a dress a few sizes too big in a sample sale is understandable, but it's not just a case of taking it in – you might not be able to keep the shape of the dress that you love, especially around the bust. "There is a lot that a creative tailor or seamstress can do with alterations to make a dress fit, but it all depends on the design and cut of the dress," says Richard. "With some strapless and sweetheart necklines, a dress three sizes bigger could be very difficult and perhaps impossible to alter and keep the bust shape the same."
Marina agrees that brides should proceed with caution when buying in sample sales. "Alteration costs can be much higher for sample dresses." It's possible that you could find that the cost of alterations wipes out any savings you made buying in the sale vs getting your actual size.