Whether you’ve lost some weight or bought a dress in an incorrect size, altering a dress that’s too big can be an effective way to get a perfect fit without having to buy a new one. With a little attention to detail and patience, you can easily adjust the seams and darts of your dress to create a more flattering and comfortable silhouette. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to alter a dress that’s too big, ensuring it fits you like a glove.
Starting with the side seams is a recommended approach for altering a dress that’s too big. These seams run along the sides of the dress, from the armpit to the hem. By taking in the side seams, you can reduce the overall width of the dress. To do this, try on the dress inside out and mark the areas that need to be taken in with pins. Remove the dress and sew along the marked lines, using a sewing machine or by hand. Afterward, press the seams open to set the new shape.
Next, consider adjusting the darts of the dress. Darts are triangular-shaped fabric folds that are sewn in specific areas to create shape and fit. By altering the darts, you can further refine the fit of the dress. If the darts are too small or shallow, they will not provide enough shaping. Alternatively, if the darts are too large or deep, they can create excess fabric that gathers or wrinkles. To adjust the darts, unpick the existing stitches and reshape them as needed. Sew the darts back in place, ensuring they are symmetrical and balanced. Once the darts are complete, press them thoroughly to set the new shape.
How to Alter a Dress That Is Too Big
Altering a dress that is too big can be a daunting task. However, it is possible to do at home with a few simple tools and techniques. By following these steps, you can alter your dress to fit perfectly.
- Determine how much the dress needs to be altered. Try on the dress and identify the areas that are too big. Use a measuring tape to determine how much fabric needs to be removed from each area.
- Mark the areas that need to be altered. Use a tailor’s chalk or fabric pen to mark the areas that need to be taken in. Make sure to mark the areas accurately, as any mistakes will be visible once the dress is altered.
- Pin the dress along the marked lines. Use sewing pins to hold the fabric in place along the marked lines. Make sure the pins are inserted perpendicular to the fabric, and that they are spaced evenly apart.
- Sew along the pinned lines. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to sew along the pinned lines. Sew slowly and carefully, making sure to stitch evenly. Once you have sewn along all of the pinned lines, remove the pins.
- Try on the dress and make any necessary adjustments. Try on the dress to make sure it fits properly. If there are any areas that still need to be adjusted, make the necessary changes and sew the dress again.
People Also Ask About How to Alter a Dress That Is Too Big
How much does it cost to alter a dress?
The cost of altering a dress will vary depending on the type of alteration, the size of the dress, and the experience of the seamstress. Simple alterations, such as taking in the sides of a dress, can cost around $20. More complex alterations, such as taking in the waist or adding a new bodice, can cost $100 or more.
How long does it take to alter a dress?
The time it takes to alter a dress will vary depending on the complexity of the alteration. Simple alterations can be completed in a few hours, while more complex alterations may take several days or weeks.
Can I alter a dress myself?
Yes, it is possible to alter a dress yourself. However, it is important to have some basic sewing skills before attempting to alter a dress. If you are not sure how to alter a dress, it is best to take it to a seamstress.
