It doesn’t matter whether you shop on a high street or high end brands, there is a big chance that the clothes won’t fit you perfectly straight off the shelf.
I experience this all the time when we go through my client’s wardrobes:
They take out stuff which has been sitting in their closet for years and they feel that something is off with it but they just can’t put their finger on it.
I offer a very easy alteration idea which leads to them wearing this same piece of clothes all the time.
Check out 3 easy but transformational alterations to make you look incomparably more presentable:
1. Understanding Trouser Length.
When it comes to trouser length, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Let's explore three different examples to help you make the right choice.
Wide Trousers:
Look at the left side of the image. The bottom pair of wide trousers is the ideal length, hitting the middle of your heel and just grazing your foot at the front. This ensures minimal creasing.
If all the trousers you try on are too long, don't worry. Buying slightly longer trousers is an easy and affordable alteration. Simply take them to a seamstress and discuss the desired length. They can easily make the necessary adjustments for you.
Wide Trousers with High Heels:
In the middle of the image, you'll see wide trousers paired with high heels. If you prefer to keep your trousers long, aim for the middle of the heel and the same length at the front, just skimming your foot.
Unsure whether to alter for heels or flats? Consider how often you wear each. If you wear flats more frequently, alter the trousers accordingly. You can always buy another pair for heels in the future.
Tapered and Slim Fitting Trousers:
On the right side, you'll find examples of tapered and slim fitting trousers. The top pair is too long, creating unnecessary lines, while the bottom pair is just right, appearing smooth and polished.
To adjust the length of tapered trousers, aim for around halfway down your ankle. This prevents them from bunching up at the top of your foot.
Remember, if you're uncertain about the trousers you're buying, you can purchase two pairs and tailor each to cater to heels and flats separately. Additionally, leaving enough fabric when shortening trousers allows for future alterations if your preferences change.
Understanding these tips will help you choose the perfect trouser length and make necessary alterations to achieve the ideal fit for any occasion.
2. Mastering Sleeve Length
Achieving the right sleeve length is a simple and effective alteration that can greatly enhance the appearance of your outfit. Let's delve into the details:
Button Adjustment for Tighter Sleeves:
The left picture demonstrates sleeves that are too long, giving a drabby and unkempt look. They extend past the hands, creating an unfavorable appearance.
Moving the button can solve this issue. In the middle and right pictures, you can see how shifting the button slightly tighter around the wrist creates a neater cuff. This small adjustment significantly improves the overall look.
Addressing Excess Volume:
Sometimes, simply tightening the sleeve may result in excessive fabric volume.
To tackle this, seek the assistance of a knowledgeable seamstress. They can resolve the issue by cutting off a portion of the excess fabric.
By removing around five centimeters (or less) of sleeve length above the cuff and reattaching the modified sleeve, you can achieve a neater and more streamlined appearance without altering the cuff itself.
Mastering these sleeve length adjustments will enable you to refine the fit of your garments and showcase a polished and well-tailored look.
3. Perfecting the Waistline Fit
The waistline plays a crucial role in the overall fit and appearance of trousers and skirts. Let's explore the key aspects of waistline alterations:
Tailoring for the Perfect Fit:
Often, we find garments like trousers and skirts sitting unused in our wardrobes. However, with a simple adjustment at the waist, they can be transformed into flattering pieces.
Taking in the waistline is an easy alteration that can be done by a knowledgeable seamstress or tailor. It ensures that the garment sits in the right place and creates a neater look.
Evaluating Waistline Placement:
Take the time to assess where your skirts and trousers should sit on your waist. Ensure that the crotch of trousers is in the correct position, avoiding them being pulled too high or sitting too low.
If there is room for adjustment, consider raising the waistline slightly to eliminate unnecessary lines and create a more polished appearance, as depicted in the right picture.
The Importance of Professional Alterations:
While a slight difference in fit may be resolved with a belt, significant alterations require the expertise of a tailor or seamstress.
Don't consider professional alterations as a luxury. They are essential in achieving a well-fitted and flattering silhouette.
By paying attention to the waistline and seeking professional alterations when needed, you can revitalize your wardrobe and ensure that your trousers and skirts fit you perfectly, enhancing your overall style.