How to Alter Men’s Dress Shirts
Are you tired of your dress shirts not fitting quite right? Whether it’s a bit too tight, too loose, or just not the perfect length, altering men’s dress shirts can be a simple and effective solution. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of how to alter men’s dress shirts, ensuring you have a perfectly fitting shirt for any occasion.
1. Assess the Fit
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s essential to assess the specific areas that need adjusting. Take a close look at the shirt and identify if it’s too tight, too loose, or if there are any other issues such as sleeves being too long or too short. This will help you determine the necessary alterations.
2. Choose the Right Tailor
Selecting a skilled tailor is crucial for a successful alteration. Look for a reputable tailor with experience in dress shirt alterations. You can ask friends or family for recommendations or search online for reviews and ratings. A good tailor will ensure that the alterations are done accurately and professionally.
3. Measure the Shirt
Before taking the shirt to the tailor, measure it to provide accurate dimensions. Use a soft measuring tape and take measurements of the following areas:
– Chest: Measure around the widest part of the chest, just below the armpits.
– Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of the waist.
– Sleeve length: Measure from the center back of the collar to the end of the sleeve.
– Shoulder width: Measure from the center of one shoulder to the other.
4. Communicate with the Tailor
When you take the shirt to the tailor, communicate your specific needs clearly. Explain the areas that need alteration and provide the measurements you took. The tailor may ask additional questions to ensure they understand your requirements and can provide the best possible results.
5. Choose the Right Alterations
Based on the fit issues you identified, the tailor will recommend the necessary alterations. Here are some common alterations for men’s dress shirts:
– Shortening the sleeves: If the sleeves are too long, the tailor can remove the excess fabric and re-sew the sleeves to the desired length.
– Taking in the sides: If the shirt is too loose, the tailor can take in the sides by removing fabric from the side seams.
– Letting out the sides: If the shirt is too tight, the tailor can let out the sides by adding fabric to the side seams.
– Shortening the shirt: If the shirt is too long, the tailor can remove the excess fabric from the bottom hem and re-sew it to the desired length.
6. Review the Results
After the alterations are complete, try on the shirt to ensure it fits perfectly. If there are any issues, don’t hesitate to return to the tailor for further adjustments.
7. Take Care of Your Altered Shirt
Once your dress shirt is altered to fit perfectly, take care of it properly to maintain its shape and longevity. Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer, and use a proper hanger to store it when not in use.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter men’s dress shirts to fit your body perfectly. Not only will you look and feel more confident, but you’ll also have a shirt that you can wear time and time again.
