Review: Lolita Alteration by Strawberry Paper Doll
As a plus-sized lolita, I am always on the hunt for a dress I love in my size. There comes a time when you find a dress that you love, even though it isn't a great fit. This happened to me with Pinky Winky's Strawberry Sweet Cream JSK. After a long search, I connected with Strawberry Paper Doll.
I can't wait to share the results here and in my YouTube video!
The Dress
This dress has so many fun elements! There are strawberries, of course, but there are other lovely illustrations. Golden cutlery, strawberry blossoms, ribbons, lace, pearls, and frosting create a scrumptious-looking print! With illustrated lace and polka-dots on the skirt border, I couldn't resist! This JSK has a lot of the same aspects that I love about Angelic Pretty's Melty Berry Princess series.
Original Measurements:
Size "L"
Bust: 88-98 cm
Waist: 80-100 cm
Length: 96 cm
Finding A Tailor
While there are tailors in my area, I wanted someone familiar with lolita fashion. I needed a professional and service with a slot for my estimated delivery. I got a huge response on social media with suggestions! Strawberry Paper Doll, recommended by a friend, seemed like a great fit.
Contacting Strawberry Paper Doll
Strawberry Paper Doll's Facebook page's message section was super easy! The tailor was extremely easy to talk to. I sent photos of the dress and my basic measurements and cup size. While I know many lolita dresses can be altered, I wanted to make sure it was doable with the cut of the dress and my size. With the waist ties and two headbows, I hoped that would be enough fabric for the change.
My Dress Arrives
Everything was a go! It was recommended that I inspect the dress to make sure I was still interested in getting it altered. I was very happy SPD was so helpful, even during this initial stage.
The dress is a good quality
The size is correct
The colorway is correct
After sending my payment and packing my order, it was off to be altered!
Alterations
Using the fabric from a headbow, the bodice now matches my measurements! I was concerned that the bodice length wasn't long enough for my cup size. The tailor said that wasn't a problem!
With an extra two inches from the waist ties to drop the bodice, we are good to go! SPD even asked if I would like for them to use the waist ties or the other headbow. I'm amazed that they were able to add more length. With this adjustment, the dress will fall closer to my natural waist.
The Result
I am overjoyed with the result! Since this dress was made to my measurements, this is my most comfortable dress. The tailor did the most amazing job and the tag was even still on the dress!
New Measurements:
Bust: 121 cm
Waist: 110 cm
Length: 97.5 cm
Communication & Shipping
10 / 10
Strawberry Paper Doll had incredible communication throughout! From before I bought my piece until it arrived, all of my questions were answered. SPD explained each step of the service perfectly. Any concerns I had, such as the length of the bodice, were addressed. I felt very comfortable with this entire process and I even got WIP photos.
My dress shipped quickly and it was even sent in a garment bag! I received my package exactly one month after it was sent.
Quality and Price
10 / 10
The quality of this alteration is fantastic! I am still amazed that Strawberry Paper Doll could take a small dress and transform it into a comfortable and flattering piece for a US 18/20. The fact that even the bodice and shoulder straps were adjusted still blows me away.
I'm sure every dress alteration is different, but I am satisfied with the results for the price of $173. I will send Sugary Carnival to this service when it arrives, and I plan to send more in the future, too!
Final Thoughts
Everyone has the right to wear what they love and that includes your comfort. Whether you are like me and need some additional measurements, you need the dress lowered or shortened, or you just want your piece to fit you like a glove, I say go for it! It's your piece and it should fit you.
Stay Frilly~
“Hi Callista! Thank you for the article, it’s great to see people altering their pieces with great success!”