Tailors

[Oogabooga]

Hi!

How “safe” is it to have work done on clothes by a tailor? I have some of my favorite pants I’m considering getting slim down a bit by a tailor. I’d really not enjoy getting them back to be unwearable.

Are tailors generally very good and reliable for this type of thing?

Thanks as always. Hope you all are staying well?

 

[breakaway01]

Sounds obvious, but some alterations are easier than others. Some alterations are not possible (e.g. lengthening when there isn't enough material). Some alterations are reversible and others are not (or not easily).

When you say "slim down" what exactly do you mean? Just the waist or elsewhere? By how much? What kind/style of pants?

For example, taking in dress trousers at the waist is very straightforward. Reducing the diameter of the trouser leg is also simple. Whenever possible, have the tailor pin the proposed alterations so that you can see how they look in the mirror.

 

[Oogabooga]

Thank you breakaway.

I want to reduce the legs. Waist is fine, but too baggy elsewhere, looking to reduce it all by an inch or two.I guess it’ll be easy.

 

[Phileas Fogg]

There’s a difference between a tailor and an alterations tailor. Perhaps that’s what you mean, but some tailors aren’t fond of doing alterations work on garments they did not make.

Provided the alterations tailor is skilled, there’s not a problem. I wouldn’t just leave it to the nice lady at your local dry cleaners. They are good for hemming pants and fixing zippers, but for slimming down pants and other, more complicated alterations, find someone else.

There is someone I use and recommend in Chicago. If we knew where you lived, some members may be able to give you assistance.

 

[Oogabooga]

I’m in NC, a bit outside asheville area.