Quick answer: Even a made-to-measure outfit can benefit from a final local fitting — bodies change, and a tailor can perfect the fit in person. AÏNN London outfits include a 3–5 inch alteration margin built into the seams, so a local tailor has fabric to take in or let out. Try it on as soon as it arrives, book a tailor 2–3 weeks before the event, bring the right shoes and underthings, and ask for small, reversible adjustments first.
A great outfit is one that fits you on the day. Here's how to get local alterations right after your AÏNN London piece arrives — so it's flawless for the event.
Why a final fitting helps (even with made-to-measure)
Made-to-measure gets you most of the way there, but a final in-person fitting handles the last 5%: posture, how you'll actually stand and move, weight changes between ordering and the event, and the exact shoes you'll wear. That's precisely why every outfit is made with an alteration margin.
The 3–5 inch alteration margin
AÏNN London builds a 3–5 inch margin into the seams, meaning there's extra fabric for a tailor to take in or let out the fit. This is your safety net — it's why ordering made-to-measure online is low-risk, and it gives a local tailor real room to perfect things.
Try it on the moment it arrives
Don't leave the box unopened until the week of the event. As soon as it arrives:
- Try the full outfit on with the shoes and underthings you'll wear.
- Check the key points: bust, waist, hips, shoulders, sleeve and overall length.
- Move around — sit, raise your arms, walk — to check comfort.
- Note anything that needs adjusting while there's still plenty of time.
Finding the right tailor
- Choose one experienced with South Asian wear — heavy embroidery, linings and structured cholis need specific skills.
- Ask to see examples of bridal or embroidered work they've altered.
- Book early: aim for 2–3 weeks before the event so there's time for a second fitting if needed.
- For heavy bridal, allow even more lead time.
What to ask for (and the order to do it in)
- Start with small, reversible changes — taking in a seam before cutting anything.
- Prioritise the bodice/choli fit — it's the most visible.
- Hem to your shoe height — bring the actual shoes.
- Be cautious near embroidery — a skilled tailor works around heavy work to preserve it.
If something looks off, tell us first
Because we send a video of your finished outfit before dispatch, surprises are rare. But if anything seems wrong when it arrives, contact us before you start altering — some things are better resolved with us than at a tailor.
Learn how to take your measurements for the best made-to-measure start, see the size chart, or browse bridal wear.
Frequently asked questions
Can AÏNN London outfits be altered locally?
Yes. Every outfit includes a 3–5 inch alteration margin in the seams, so a local tailor can take in or let out the fit for a perfect final result.
How much can the outfit be altered?
The built-in margin is 3–5 inches, giving a tailor room to adjust the fit. Beyond that, alterations depend on the garment's construction and embroidery placement.
When should I book a tailor?
Try the outfit on as soon as it arrives, then book a tailor experienced with South Asian wear about 2–3 weeks before the event — more for heavy bridal — to allow time for a second fitting.
What should I bring to the fitting?
Bring the exact shoes and underthings you'll wear on the day so the hem length and fit are set correctly.
AÏNN London makes every outfit to measure with a 3–5 inch alteration margin and sends a video of your finished piece before dispatch — duties included and free delivery over £500. Ask us about fit before you order.
Last updated: June 2026
