What To Know
- With a few simple techniques, you can take in a slip dress and give it a new lease on life, transforming it from a faded memory to a fashion triumph.
- Put on the dress and pin the excess fabric on each side of the bust, creating a smooth and even line.
- Put on the dress and pin the excess fabric on each side of the waist, creating a smooth and even line.
The slip dress – a timeless wardrobe staple that effortlessly transitions from casual to chic. But what happens when your beloved slip dress no longer fits quite right? Don’t despair! With a few simple techniques, you can take in a slip dress and give it a new lease on life, transforming it from a faded memory to a fashion triumph.
Assessing Your Slip Dress: The First Step to a Perfect Fit
Before you grab your needle and thread, take a moment to assess your slip dress. This will help you determine the best approach for tailoring it to your current size.
- Identify the Fit Issues: Is the dress too loose in the bust, waist, or hips? Are the straps too long or too wide?
- Consider the Fabric: Slip dresses come in a wide array of fabrics, from delicate silk to sturdy satin. Understanding the fabric type will guide your tailoring choices.
- Check the Seams: Examine the seams for any existing alterations. If the dress has been taken in before, you may need to adjust the existing alterations.
The Essential Tools for Taking In a Slip Dress
Gather these essential tools before you begin:
- Measuring Tape: A must-have for accurate measurements.
- Sewing Pins: Securely hold fabric in place while you make adjustments.
- Fabric Scissors: Sharp scissors for clean and precise cuts.
- Sewing Needle and Thread: Matching thread is key to a seamless finish.
- Sewing Machine (Optional): A sewing machine can speed up the process, but hand-sewing is also an option.
- Iron and Ironing Board: Press seams for a crisp and professional finish.
Taking In the Bust: Achieving a Flattering Silhouette
A slip dress that fits snugly in the bust creates a flattering and feminine silhouette. Here’s how to take in the bust:
1. Pinning for Precision: Put on the dress and pin the excess fabric on each side of the bust, creating a smooth and even line.
2. Marking the Seam: Remove the dress and carefully mark the new seamline with tailor’s chalk or a pencil.
3. Cutting and Sewing: Cut along the marked line, leaving a small seam allowance. Sew the new seam, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
4. Pressing for Perfection: Press the seam flat for a clean and professional look.
Tailoring the Waist: Defining Your Shape
A cinched waistline accentuates your curves and adds a touch of elegance to your slip dress.
1. Pinning for a Smooth Fit: Put on the dress and pin the excess fabric on each side of the waist, creating a smooth and even line.
2. Marking the Seam: Remove the dress and carefully mark the new seamline with tailor’s chalk or a pencil.
3. Cutting and Sewing: Cut along the marked line, leaving a small seam allowance. Sew the new seam, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
4. Pressing for a Polished Look: Press the seam flat for a clean and professional look.
Adjusting the Hips: Creating a Streamlined Silhouette
If your slip dress is too loose in the hips, you can easily take it in to create a more streamlined silhouette.
1. Pinning for a Perfect Fit: Put on the dress and pin the excess fabric on each side of the hips, creating a smooth and even line.
2. Marking the Seam: Remove the dress and carefully mark the new seamline with tailor’s chalk or a pencil.
3. Cutting and Sewing: Cut along the marked line, leaving a small seam allowance. Sew the new seam, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
4. Pressing for a Polished Look: Press the seam flat for a clean and professional look.
Shortening the Straps: Achieving the Perfect Length
Slip dress straps often need a little adjustment for a perfect fit. Here’s how to shorten them:
1. Pinning for a Comfortable Fit: Put on the dress and pin the straps at the desired length.
2. Marking the Seam: Remove the dress and carefully mark the new seamline with tailor’s chalk or a pencil.
3. Cutting and Sewing: Cut along the marked line, leaving a small seam allowance. Sew the new seam, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
4. Pressing for a Clean Finish: Press the seam flat for a clean and professional look.
Embracing the Final Touches: Adding a Personal Flair
Once you’ve taken in your slip dress, you can add a personal touch to make it truly your own.
- Lace Trim: Add a delicate lace trim to the neckline or hemline for a touch of femininity.
- Beading: Embellish the neckline or straps with beads for a touch of sparkle.
- Tie-Dye: Give your slip dress a unique and vibrant twist with tie-dye.
The Transformation is Complete: Your Slip Dress Reborn
With a few simple adjustments, your slip dress has been transformed from a faded memory to a fashion triumph. It fits perfectly, flatters your figure, and reflects your personal style.
Beyond the Sewing Machine: A Word on Professional Alterations
If you’re not comfortable with sewing or if your slip dress requires more complex alterations, consider taking it to a professional tailor. They can provide expert advice and ensure a perfect fit.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I take in a slip dress made of delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon?
A: Yes, but it’s important to use a delicate needle and thread and to handle the fabric with care.
Q: What if the slip dress has a lining?
A: You’ll need to take in both the lining and the outer fabric to ensure a smooth and even finish.
Q: Can I take in a slip dress that has a built-in bra?
A: It’s possible, but you’ll need to be careful not to alter the built-in bra.
Q: What are some tips for maintaining a slip dress after altering it?
A: Hand-wash or dry clean your slip dress to preserve its shape and prevent damage to the seams.
Q: Can I take in a slip dress that has a different fabric on the bodice and skirt?
A: Yes, but you may need to use different sewing techniques for each fabric to ensure a smooth and even finish.
With a little patience and a touch of creativity, you can transform your slip dress into a wardrobe staple that you’ll cherish for years to come.
