How to Alter a Boxy Jacket: Transform Your Wardrobe with a Few Simple Adjustments
If you’ve ever found yourself with a boxy jacket that doesn’t quite fit the way you’d like, you’re not alone. Boxy jackets, while stylish, can sometimes be a bit too roomy or oversized for comfort. The good news is that altering a boxy jacket can be a straightforward and rewarding process. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to transform your boxy jacket into a more tailored and flattering piece that fits your body perfectly.
1. Assess the Problem Areas
Before you start altering your jacket, it’s important to identify the specific areas that need adjustment. Is the jacket too long, too wide, or does it gape at the shoulders? Understanding the problem areas will help you determine the best alterations to make.
2. Gather Your Tools
To alter a boxy jacket, you’ll need a few basic tools. These include a pair of sharp scissors, pins, a measuring tape, a ruler, and a fabric marker. It’s also a good idea to have a seam ripper on hand, as you may need to remove some of the existing seams to make adjustments.
3. Take Accurate Measurements
To ensure that your alterations are precise, take accurate measurements of your jacket and your body. Compare these measurements to determine where the jacket needs to be adjusted. Common alterations include taking in the sides, shortening the sleeves, or taking in the shoulders.
4. Take the Jacket Apart
Using your seam ripper, carefully remove the seams from the areas you plan to alter. Be sure to keep track of the order in which the seams were sewn, as this will be important when you put the jacket back together.
5. Make the Adjustments
Now it’s time to make the actual alterations. If the jacket is too wide, you can take in the sides by removing a small amount of fabric from the seam allowances. If the jacket is too long, you can shorten the sleeves or the body by cutting off the excess fabric and then sewing the new seam. For a gapping shoulder, you may need to take in the shoulder seams or adjust the shoulder pads.
6. Sew the New Seams
Once you’ve made the necessary adjustments, it’s time to sew the new seams. Be sure to press the seams open as you sew to help the fabric lay flat. If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, consider taking the jacket to a professional seamstress for this step.
7. Test the Fit
After the alterations are complete, try on the jacket to ensure that it fits well. Make any final adjustments if necessary, and then press the jacket to set the new seams.
8. Put the Jacket Back Together
Finally, re-sew the seams that you removed in step 4, using the original thread and stitch pattern. This will help ensure that the jacket looks as if it was never altered.
By following these steps, you can successfully alter a boxy jacket to fit your body better and enhance your wardrobe. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a stylish, tailored jacket that you’ll love wearing.
