5 Quick Fitting Amendments | Tips to Tailor Your Clothes for the Perfect Fit at Home
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Creating clothes that not only look good but fit you perfectly can be a challenge. We’ve all had the experience of crafting a beautiful garment, whether inspired by illustrations or online creations, only to try it on and realise that it doesn’t feel as great as we thought. If the fit isn’t just right, no matter how stunning the design or how carefully chosen the fabric, it won’t give you that flattering and confident feeling.
My name is Alexandra, and as a professional fashion designer, pattern cutter, and creative consultant, I help people like you design, draft, and create their dream wardrobes. The key to a great wardrobe isn’t only about picking the right patterns and fabrics. It's also about ensuring that the fit is perfect. You could pick colours that complement your complexion and add exquisite design details, but if the garment doesn't fit you like a glove, it won’t make you feel fantastic.
Why Fit Matters
Many of us begin sewing our own clothes because the High Street doesn’t offer the sizes or the styles we desire. In my own experience, as someone with scoliosis, I know how difficult it can be to find garments that fit properly, especially when commercial patterns are drafted for mass production and don't account for individual asymmetries. Whether it’s your posture, a slight imbalance in your shoulder slope, or other minor differences, a mass-market pattern won't work for you the way a custom piece would.
So, today, I’m sharing 30 quick fit tips with you. These tips cover everything from beginner-friendly advice to some of the industry secrets I’ve learned throughout my career. Whether you're new to fitting or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you achieve a perfect fit at home.
Day 1: Understanding Shoulder Measurements
A common mistake many people make when measuring their shoulder is that they measure too far over the rounded part of the shoulder, extending into the sleeve head. To accurately take your shoulder measurement, you need to measure from the base of your neck down to the crease of your armpit, where the armhole of the garment will lie. This is crucial because this is where the shoulder seam will sit, and measuring too far along the shoulder won't give you an accurate reading for your patterns.
Day 2: Armhole Depth – A Tricky Measurement Made Easy
Taking an accurate armhole depth can be incredibly challenging, especially if you’re doing it alone. One industry hack that will make this task easier is to use a tape measure to wrap it around your neck and under your arms, all the way to the back. Then, simply mark this measurement. This way, you’ll get an accurate reading without the usual struggle of trying to reach that awkward spot on your own.
Day 3: Adjusting Trouser Length without Bending Down
When it comes to adjusting trouser length, bending over to make the necessary changes can cause inaccuracies. As you bend, the length of the trouser leg rises, which can lead to a too-short hem. Instead, stand straight, roll up the trouser leg, and pin it in place. This way, you maintain a consistent length and can check your progress in the mirror without any awkward bending.
Day 4: Measuring from the Floor Up
Getting measurements like waist to hem or hip to hem can be tricky, especially when you’re measuring from the top down. A simple tip is to measure from the floor upwards instead. This method gives you a much easier and more accurate reading, as you’re working from a fixed point (the floor) rather than trying to guess the distance from a moving point (your waist or hips).
Day 5: Waist and Hip Adjustments
When it comes to fitting garments around your waist or hips, the key is to make sure the garment follows your natural curves. A common mistake is to make these areas too tight, resulting in a garment that pulls or feels uncomfortable. Start by gently pinning your fabric around your waist or hips and make sure to allow for a bit of ease, as this will give you a more flattering silhouette without compromising comfort.