How do you alter maxi dress? Whether you’ve bought a maxi dress that’s a little too long or you’ve found a beautiful one that needs a few adjustments to fit perfectly, altering a maxi dress is a straightforward process that can enhance your wardrobe significantly. This article will guide you through the steps to successfully alter a maxi dress, ensuring it flatters your figure and suits your personal style.
Maxi dresses are versatile and elegant, but they can sometimes come in sizes that are too large or too small. Here are some common alterations you might consider, along with step-by-step instructions to help you achieve the perfect fit.
1. Shortening the Dress
If your maxi dress is too long, the first alteration to consider is shortening it. This is a relatively simple process that involves taking in the hemline.
– Begin by folding the dress up to the desired length, making sure it fits well on your body.
– Pin the dress at the new hemline to hold the fabric in place.
– Cut the excess fabric, being careful not to cut too close to the pins.
– Steam the hem to remove any wrinkles and ensure a smooth finish.
– Sew the hem by hand or with a sewing machine, reinforcing the stitching for durability.
2. Fitting the Waist
A maxi dress that’s too loose around the waist can easily be taken in to achieve a more flattering fit.
– Pin the dress at the sides, starting from the waist down to the hemline, where you want to take in the most fabric.
– Measure the amount of fabric you need to remove from each side, ensuring symmetry.
– Cut the excess fabric, then sew the sides together, taking out the excess as you go.
– Hem the dress as described in the shortening process.
3. Adding Pockets
Maxi dresses often lack pockets, but adding them can be a simple alteration that adds practicality and style.
– Choose the location for the pockets, ensuring they are placed where they will be functional.
– Measure and cut the fabric for the pocket pieces, leaving a seam allowance.
– Sew the pocket pieces together, then sew them onto the dress at the chosen location.
– Attach the pocket flap and sew it into place.
4. Adjusting the Length of the Sleeves
If the sleeves of your maxi dress are too long, they can be shortened to match your preference.
– Measure the desired length for the sleeves, taking into account the hemline.
– Pin the sleeves at the new hemline, ensuring they are even.
– Cut the excess fabric, then sew the sleeves by hand or with a sewing machine.
– Steam the sleeves to remove any wrinkles and ensure a smooth finish.
Remember, when altering a maxi dress, it’s always a good idea to try it on multiple times to ensure the alterations are meeting your expectations. With a little patience and some basic sewing skills, you can transform your maxi dress into a perfect fit that you’ll love wearing for years to come.
