So You Want a Slit in your Wedding Dress...How to Add a Slit to Your Bridal Gown.

Slits are beautiful, sexy, and they can make you feel like a red-carpet celebrity. Today I'm going explain to you the different types of slits, how to get one, and a few things you might want to consider when looking for a dress.

Discontinued gown from Stella York

Gown from Rosa Clara

The first thing to consider is just buying a gown with a slit. When you're shopping, tell the stylist exactly what you're looking for. Most bridal shops will have a range of gowns that either have slits, or can be special ordered with one. This is the simplest way to get a slit and the best option. But sometimes you fall in love with the perfect gown and, sadly, it does have a slit...yet!

Since I'm a seamstress and alterations are my business, most of the focus here is going to be on how to add a slit to a wedding dress that doesn't have one. To be clear, this is not a tutorial or a DIY. Please only have a professional cut your gown. Trust me, I've seen and heard too many horror stories...

Let's start with the classic princess seam slit...

Ellis Gown from Azazie

The princess seams are the two that run from the apex of the bust to the floor. Generally gowns with princess seams are more fitted throughout and don't have a waist seam. These are the easiest gowns to add a slit into and nearly any seamstress is capable of it. The only time a seamstress may turn you away with this alteration is if the gown is heavily beaded across that seam. Also, if there is a lot of lace applique over the seam, it may cost you extra. Otherwise, this is the simplest of slits and should be easy enough to get put in.

Now, onto the more complicated stuff...Let's talk about the center slit.

F221058 Gown from Jasmine Bridal

Front slits are here for the shoe lovers! Whether you're rocking a pair of glittery heels, leather cowboy boots, or some bedazzled sneakers, these slits make your feet the star of the show. Unfortunately they are a little trickier to put in. Because there is no center seam on most gowns, the slit will have to be cut into the material and there is no going back! 

Lange dress from Azazie

I'm not trying to scare you off from these, just trying to make the reader aware of the irreversibility of this type of slit.

Center slits tend to be more noticeable as there is a lack of fabric for it to fold into. Side slits can often not be too noticeable or disappear into the folds of the gown. These slits are quick literally the front and center and a statement in and of themselves. One cool thing about these slits is that they can be as narrow or as wide as you'd like, so if you want more of an opening than a slit it can often actually be easier for the seamstress. I could see a wider slit perfectly fitting into a country barn wedding with some cowboy boots...

Ballgown and A-line slits are best bought as part of the gown. I unfortunately struggled to find photos for this part, but for another example check out this link to David's bridal. 

I can't give you concrete advice about this type of slit, except to consult your tailor. Every gown is different and it takes a creative eye to come up with a solution. These are definitely going to be the most expensive slits and will take the most time. Depending on the skirt style, your seamstress may highly discourage you from adding a slit but, if you're willing to pay and have enough time, they will most likely do it for you. Consider this in the category of a re-design, however. It's definitely the most invasive operation of the bunch.

Now that you're educated on slits, I encourage you to do a little research and look at different styles. There are so many gowns out there with beautiful slits and if you know what you want it'll be easier to find or create what you're looking for. 

Happy Wedding Planning!
​Rosalie