Can you make a dress bigger with alterations?
Certainly! Altering a dress to fit better is a common and practical solution for those who find that their favorite garment doesn’t quite fit as well as they’d like. Whether it’s due to weight changes, a new silhouette, or simply a misjudgment of size at the time of purchase, making a dress bigger with alterations is not only possible but also a cost-effective way to extend the life of your wardrobe. Here’s a guide on how to go about it.
Understanding the Basics of Dress Alterations
Before diving into the specifics of making a dress bigger, it’s important to understand the basics of dress alterations. A good tailor will be able to assess the dress’s fabric, construction, and style to determine the best approach for making it larger. Typically, the following methods are used to increase the size of a dress:
1. Adding Length: If the dress is too short, a tailor can add length to the hemline. This is usually done by taking in the waist or side seams and then adding a pleat or a tuck at the hem to maintain the dress’s shape.
2. Widening the Waist: To make a dress bigger at the waist, the tailor will usually take in the side seams. This involves removing a strip of fabric from the side seams and then reattaching them, creating a wider waistline.
3. Expanding the Bust: If the dress is too tight across the bust, the tailor can take in the side seams and then add darts at the bust to create more room.
4. Adding Width to the Hips: To make a dress bigger at the hips, the tailor may add a panel of fabric to the side seams or simply take in the waist and then add width to the hips.
Choosing the Right Tailor
The success of your dress alteration largely depends on the skill of the tailor you choose. When selecting a tailor, consider the following:
– Experience: Look for a tailor with experience in dress alterations, particularly with the type of fabric and style of dress you have.
– Portfolio: Ask to see the tailor’s portfolio or examples of their work to gauge their quality.
– Reputation: Check reviews or ask for referrals to ensure that the tailor has a good reputation.
Preparation for the Alteration
Before taking your dress to the tailor, it’s helpful to do a bit of preparation:
– Try on the Dress: Ensure that the dress fits as well as possible before you take it to the tailor. This will give the tailor a better idea of how much altering is needed.
– Bring the Right Garments: Wear something comfortable that fits you well when you go to the tailor. This will help the tailor understand your body shape and size better.
– Communicate Your Needs: Clearly communicate what you want the dress to look like after the alterations. Be specific about the areas where you need the dress to fit better.
Post-Alteration Care
Once the alterations are complete, it’s important to take proper care of your dress to maintain its new fit:
– Wash According to Instructions: Follow the care label instructions to keep the dress in good condition.
– Store Properly: Store the dress on a wide, flat surface to prevent creases and maintain its shape.
– Regular Check-ups: Periodically take the dress to the tailor for a check-up to ensure that it continues to fit well.
In conclusion, making a dress bigger with alterations is a viable option for those who want to extend the life of their wardrobe. With the right tailor and proper care, your dress can be tailored to fit you perfectly for years to come.
