How to Alter a Shift Dress
Are you tired of your shift dress not fitting quite right? Maybe it’s a bit too tight around the waist or the sleeves are a bit too long. Don’t worry; altering a shift dress is a straightforward process that can be done at home with a few simple tools and some basic sewing skills. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to alter a shift dress so that it fits you perfectly.
Step 1: Measure Your Dress
Before you start, it’s essential to measure your dress to determine where you need to make alterations. Take measurements around the bust, waist, hips, and the length of the sleeves. Write these measurements down so you can refer to them later.
Step 2: Decide What Needs to Be Altered
Based on your measurements, decide what changes you need to make. If the dress is too tight around the waist, you may need to take in the sides. If the sleeves are too long, you’ll need to shorten them. And if the dress is too large, you might need to take it in at the waist and hips.
Step 3: Gather Your Materials
To alter your shift dress, you’ll need the following materials:
– Sewing machine or needle and thread
– Fabric marker or chalk
– Scissors
– Seam ripper
– Pins
– Iron and ironing board
Step 4: Take in the Waist
If your dress is too tight around the waist, follow these steps:
1. Remove the dress from the hanger and lay it flat on your ironing board.
2. Mark the areas where you need to take in the dress with the fabric marker or chalk.
3. Use the seam ripper to carefully remove the side seams of the dress.
4. Trim the excess fabric, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
5. Pin the sides together and sew them back up, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
6. Iron the seams flat and you’re done!
Step 5: Shorten the Sleeves
If the sleeves are too long, follow these steps:
1. Mark the desired sleeve length on the inside of the dress with the fabric marker or chalk.
2. Use the seam ripper to remove the sleeve seams.
3. Trim the excess fabric from the sleeves, leaving a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
4. Pin the sleeves back together and sew them back up, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
5. Iron the seams flat and you’re done!
Step 6: Try on the Dress
After making the alterations, try on the dress to ensure it fits perfectly. If you need to make any more adjustments, repeat the process until you’re satisfied with the fit.
Conclusion
Altering a shift dress is a simple and rewarding project that can help you get the most out of your wardrobe. With a bit of patience and some basic sewing skills, you can easily make your dress fit like a glove. Happy sewing!
