Studio ILKA is a fashion and alterations studio. Our team of seamstresses are experts in bridal alterations on new wedding dresses, preloved bridal dresses, sale or sample dresses and vintage pieces. We have a design background and can problem solve to achieve the look you require with your outfit.
We are dedicated to achieving that bespoke fit that you desire. Whether you want your wedding dress taken in or let out, the hems taken up or a split added, we will make sure your bridal alterations flatter your shape and fit you beautifully.
At Studio ILKA we specialise in Bridal alterations, and subject to availability can offer suit alterations and general alterations (please email or call ahead).
Bridal alterations can be completed on plain, satin, silk, lace, beaded embellishment, pleated or gathered fabric gowns.
Our standard bridal alterations service includes size adjusments (1-2 sizes), hem shortening, straps, adding bustles, adding boning, and more.
We also offer custom design elements such as neckline re-design, sleeves, over skirts, vintage bridal re-design and full custom designed outfits.
Yes, we make veils, belts, gloves, sleeves and bridal accessories to order. We have samples available in store to try on, or feel free to email us with your inspiration.
We can certainly alter you dress to fit for pregnancy. Depending on the style and alterations/design changes required as well as your individual circumstances, we recommend for you to contact our team via email, with as much information as possible about your dress and timeframe for us to best work with you.
Depending on the stage of pregnancy and timeframe, the best option may be a rushed time frame (under 5 weeks) to get the optimal fit for you and your bump. Contact our team to book you in for your 1st fitting.
We understand bodies change, and a wedding shred might be on the cards. To prepare for these changes, we request for you to notify our staff before or at your 1st fitting. Our team will work to alter the dress to the body present on the 1st fitting, however the wokr can be split into multiple fittings for the dress to fit you to the T.
I’ve already had my 1st fitting with ILKA, and my body is changing shape, what do I do?
Firstly, don’t panic and secondly call or email our team. If you have noticed significant changes to your body, please notify our team ASAP. We will book you in for an additional fitting. For this service additional charges will apply for the fitting and any additional alteration works required.
Yes! Just like pregnancy, breastfeed and postpartum bodies can change in size and shape rapidly.
Breastfeeding: We would recommend fittings to be booked in at the same time or at the same fullness from previous visits, for each appointment. E.g If you have come in after you have feed, and your bust is smaller the dress will fit differently, to if you came in with full breast. If you need any assistance in this, please contact our staff.
Postpartum: It is important to have as much information as possible in regards to how your body may change. If you wedding is shortly after you give birth, please call our team to organise your fitting dates.
Yes, we welcome everyone to ILKA. If you have any question or concerns about your visit, please get in touch with us.
Our fitting rooms are upstairs, however with prior notice (5 days) we can facilitate a fitting in our downstairs studio. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss more.
It can be overwhelming and stressful planning a wedding, as well as being in a wedding dress. Some clients have found it beneficial to give our team prior knowledge of any conditions or concerns they have. This information will be held with the utmost privacy and professionalism. If you wish to speak with one of our team members, feel free to contact them before your fitting or speak privately at the time of your 1st fitting.
We don't expect our customers to know the in's and out's of garment construction, that's why we're here. Below are some terms you might find useful;
Bodice Reconstruction
This is where our team of experts reconstruct the bodice of your wedding gown to create a bespoke fit for you. This may include, but is not limited to: taking in or letting out the bust and/or waist, contouring the neckline, re-shaping armholes, adjusting or altering bra cup inserts, and shaping the bust area.
Skirt Reconstruction
This is where our team of experts tailor the skirt of your wedding gown. This may include, but is not limited to: taking in the waist, both the high hip measurement and the hip measurement, tailoring the back of the dress to accentuate the bottom, or adding darts into the skirt waistline to create shape.
Wedding Dress Hem adjustments
Our team will adjust straight hems, scalloped lace hems, hand rolled hems, beaded hems and tulle hems, to name a few. All adjusted hems are completed in the desired length and to the original design, so that the hem looks untouched.
Neckline modifications
This can include neckline reshaping, contouring to your bust, and neckline redesign, eg. lowering the back to the waist.
Bustles
A bustle is a functional alteration which keeps the train off the floor for you to dance the night away, free from having guests accidentally step on your wedding gown. We can create multiple types of bustles or a hand loop. Please note: depending on the style of dress, a bustle might not be achievable, but we are happy to discuss this at your fitting.
Converting back bodice into a lace-up
Is your dress too tight? Or do you love the look of a lace-up? Either way, our tailors can convert the back of your wedding dress into a lace-up.
Straps and Sleeves
We lengthen, shorten and offer custom straps or sleeves that can be created upon request. We also can create detachable sleeves to suit your dress.
Customisations
If you wish to change an element of your bridal gown, or you have a customisation in mind, we invite you to contact us via email with imagery of your gown and additional information about the customisation request. One of our team members will get in touch with you.
Redesign
We offer full gown redesign services. For this service, please email us at booking@weareilka.com.au with imagery for your gown and what areas you want to be redesigned. For this process more time is ideal for your wedding dress redesign, however short time frames can be accommodated.