8 Surprising Clothing Fixes You Didn’t Realize a Tailor Can Make
Updated: Jun. 04, 2021Think beyond a pants hem. Your tailor can also replace the collar on a favorite button-down or raise the neckline on a not-so-modest blouse.
Close up pockets
Pants pockets have a pesky habit of folding out at the hips—a part of the body where no one wants extra volume. Ask your tailor to close up your pockets for a more streamlined look. Here are more fashion tricks that can make you look thinner.
Add a zipper to the back of a dress
Got a dress that’s way too hard to get into? Add a zipper. Take into consideration that installing the hardware will make the body of the dress a bit tighter.
Adjust the shoulder of a coat or jacket
This alteration can get a bit pricey ($75 or more at some shops), so try to buy blazers and jackets with shoulders that fit properly. If you’ve got one you just can’t let go of, take it to your tailor. Ultimately, the shoulder seam should meet the sleeve of the jacket right where your arm meets your shoulder. The entire shoulder should lie flat.
Take in the body of a jacket or shirt
Your tailor will be able to take in an inch or so on most pieces. But keep it reasonable: the alteration will likely be limited to about one size down.
Replace a shirt collar or cuff
While this service isn’t available at all shops, it is possible to replace a worn-out collar or cuff on a favorite button down. The alteration is also expensive, so only do it on pieces you truly love.
Create a new neckline
If you love a certain shirt (or it’s made of a luxurious fabric you don’t want to let go of), but hate its neckline (it feels claustrophobic, its shoulders are wonky, it shows too much skin, etc) ask your tailor if he can change it up. A professional will be able to switch things around; say, adding a panel to cover up cleavage or removing the collar from a button-down.
