How Much Do Clothing Alterations Cost?

At Readywear Cleaners, this is one of the first questions people ask before scheduling a fitting: what's this actually going to cost? Clothing alterations typically range from about $20 for simple work like hemming or minor repairs to $150 or more for complex alterations, while formalwear and wedding gowns can run several hundred dollars or more. The exact cost depends on the garment and the work involved - a basic pants hem is usually fairly straightforward, while altering a lined jacket or a multilayer dress can involve considerably more labor. Fabric, construction, lining, beadwork, and the complexity of the adjustment all play a role in what a tailor charges.  

Average Clothing Alteration Cost Ranges

For many everyday garments, common alterations fall somewhere between roughly $20 and $150 or more, depending on the work involved. A basic pants hem or small repair is usually toward the lower end, while adjusting a lined jacket, reshaping a dress, or changing several areas of the same garment can cost more. Formalwear and wedding gowns tend to run higher, since the work involved is often more detailed. 

These are general market ranges for alterations & tailoring; the garment itself has to be considered alongside the requested change — construction, fabric, lining, layers, and decorative details can all affect how much work is actually involved.

Alteration Cost by Garment Type

The type of garment and the work being done can change the price considerably. The estimates below can help set expectations before a fitting.

Note: Actual prices vary based on the garment, requested alteration, fabric, construction, lining, layers, decorative details, and other factors. An in-person fitting is needed for an accurate estimate. 



A simple hem tends to fall near the lower end, while a garment with lining, several layers, or more involved adjustments tends to fall toward the higher end.

How to Get an Accurate Tailoring Estimate

The best way to get an accurate price is to have the garment evaluated in person. Bring it along with the shoes and undergarments you plan to wear with it, especially for pants, dresses, and formalwear. During the fitting, we can see how the garment fits, examine its construction, talk through the changes you want, and confirm any upcoming event or deadline. 

We offer on-site tailoring by appointment at both locations. Schedule an alteration to have your garment evaluated and get an accurate estimate. For more on caring for your clothes between visits, see how often to dry clean your clothes, or call 630-443-7700 to speak with our team.