It is very rare that I find clothing, especially online, that I feel compelled to have it right then and there. You know those types of purchases and when you stumble upon them, it always feels so good. It’s like the piece was made for you! While I wish this happened more often than it does, the reality is that clothing brands don’t typically make clothing that fits a girl who is 5’2”, wears a size 18/XXL, and follows certain modesty standards when it comes to clothing. While brands are making strides towards inclusivity, especially within the petite plus size/modest market, I still struggle to find clothing that is petite, plus size, and modest. Because of this, I regularly alter my clothes to fit properly and are up to my standards. And this is where today’s lesson comes in: why you should start altering your clothes.
Why You Should Start Altering Your Clothes
I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve gone shopping with friends and decided not to purchase something because it was too long or didn’t work for their body. While I understand how frustrating it can be, but we can’t expect a pair of pants, a dress, or a top to fit you perfectly right off the rack. Clothing is designed for the masses, not just for you!
While altering some clothing can get complicated, fixing an item that is too long, gaping in one spot, or needs to fit a little bit better is usually quick and easy to fix!
To Meet Your Modesty Standards
Not everyone’s modesty standards are going to be the same, but here are mine so you can see why I alter certain pieces of clothing:
- Necklines must cover my collarbone all the way around (think crew neck or very short v-neck)
- The hemline must hit below my knee
- Elbows must be completely covered (think 3/4 length sleeves)
Have Your Clothes Fit Properly
As I said, you can’t expect clothing that is made for the masses to fit you right off the rack. By altering your clothes, they’ll be able to fit YOUR body, not the other way around. When your clothing fits you properly, you’ll feel so much more confident in what you’re wearing.
What Types of Clothing Can be Altered?
Almost anything can be altered, whether you do it yourself or bring it to a tailor. The items I find I alter the most are basics and pieces I find wearing on a daily basis. For me, the most commonly altered type of clothing in my closet is dresses. If you’re trying to determine what you can tailor in your closet, consider the following:
- Your favorite pants
- High-quality basics and classics
- Designer items
- Skirts, dresses, or pants that are too long
- Your professional wardrobe
- Formal wear
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