Tailoring Alterations Basics Guide
Marcus Reid·Published
Fit Is Everything
An expensive garment that does not fit looks worse than an affordable one that is been tailored. Learning which alterations are simple and which are complex helps you make smart buying decisions and communicate effectively with your tailor.
Easy Alterations (Low Cost)
- Hemming trousers — shortening or lengthening the hem. $10-20.
- Taking in side seams — making a garment narrower through the body. $15-30.
- Shortening sleeves — from the cuff end (simple) or shoulder end (complex). $15-40.
- Moving buttons — adjusting button placement for better fit. $5-10.
- Adding darts — shaping a boxy top or dress to follow body curves. $15-25.
Moderate Alterations (Medium Cost)
- Taking in shoulders — narrowing the shoulder seam. $40-80. This is the most impactful alteration for jackets and tops.
- Replacing a zipper — $20-50 depending on zipper type and garment construction.
- Tapering trouser legs — narrowing from knee to ankle. $25-45.
- Letting out seams — possible only if there is enough fabric in the seam allowance. $20-40.
Difficult/Expensive Alterations
- Restructuring shoulders — changing pad size or shoulder angle. $100+. Often not worth the cost.
- Shortening from the top — if a jacket is too long, shortening from the shoulder is complex and expensive.
- Recutting — fundamentally changing a garment's shape. Usually more expensive than buying new.
Communication Tips
- Bring the shoes you will wear with the garment (affects hem length)
- Be specific: "I want this taken in 2cm at the waist" beats "make it tighter"
- Ask for a pin fitting before cutting
- Get a written estimate before authorizing work
