PRICE GUIDE · PERSONAL & LIFESTYLE

Dressmaker cost in the UK
£150–£500 per garment. Typically £180.

A dressmaker charges £150 to £500 per garment, and around £180 buys a simpler made-to-measure piece. Design complexity, fabric, the number of fittings and whether it is bridal or occasion wear decide the price.

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HOW MUCH IT COSTS

How much does a dressmaker cost in the UK?

DRESSMAKER PRICE · PER GARMENT · THE UK
Low end£150a simple skirt or top
Typical£180what most people pay
High end£500an embellished occasion or bridal dress
Typical £180
£150 low£500 high

Locufy guide prices for 2026–2027. Updated 2026. A national range, not a quote — enter your town above for real prices from the personal and lifestyle providers near you.

What moves the price

  • Design — a lined, structured dress costs more than a simple skirt or top
  • Fabric — silk, lace and beaded fabric add materials and sewing time
  • Fittings — more fittings mean more of the dressmaker's time
  • Pattern — a bespoke pattern costs more than adapting an existing one
  • Occasion wear — bridal, prom and cultural dress is priced higher
  • Location — London dressmakers charge more than dressmakers in smaller towns

WHAT YOU GET

What a dressmaker booking includes

Design consultationYour ideas, sketches and photos discussed.
Measurements and patternBody measurements taken and a pattern drafted or adapted.
Toile and fittingsA test garment and fittings to perfect the shape.
Making and finishingThe final garment sewn, finished and pressed.

Takes: Usually four to eight weeks with two or three fittings. Not included: Fabric, trims and embellishments are often charged separately, as are extra fittings.

WHAT PEOPLE BOOK

Common dressmaker commissions

Wedding guest dressA lined midi dress made to measure.
Prom dress in PudseyA fitted prom gown with a full skirt.
Bridesmaid dresses in GlasgowMatching dresses for three bridesmaids.
Cultural outfitA traditional outfit made for a family wedding.
Copying a favourite dressA worn-out dress copied in new fabric.
Made-to-measure skirtA tailored skirt for work.

KNOW THE PRICE? NOW SEE THE REAL ONES

Dressmaker near you, with prices shown

The personal and lifestyle providers that cover your area, nearest first, each with their price and one score from every review. No account needed to look.

Or post the job free and let them come to you.

How to pay less

  • Supply your own fabric if the dressmaker allows it
  • Choose a simpler design with fewer seams, linings and embellishments
  • Book the dressmaker early to avoid rush charges before your event

Before you book

  • Bring photos, sketches and fabric ideas to the first dressmaker meeting
  • Ask what the dressmaker's price includes, such as fabric, toile and fittings
  • Agree a timetable with dates for fittings and collection
  • Confirm the deposit and what happens if you change the design

Dressmaker cost: questions people ask

Usually £150 to £500, with about £180 for a simpler made-to-measure piece. Bridal and occasion wear costs more.

Usually four to eight weeks, including two or three fittings. Bridal gowns can take months.

Some dressmakers supply fabric and include it, while others ask you to buy it. Ask how they prefer to work.

Yes. Many will copy a favourite garment, which can cost less than a new design.

Fabric, trims, embellishments and extra fittings are often separate. Ask for a full estimate.

They are Locufy guide prices for the UK from national quote data and a published UK tailoring cost guide. Each dressmaker prices by design.