The essential touches for an impeccable dress

Have you finally found the perfect dress for a special occasion or do you simply want to update your professional wardrobe? Chances are it won’t fit like a glove right away. To obtain a refined and elegant look, some touch-ups are necessary! In this article I will share with you the essential steps to take to obtain a tailor-made suit.

Shoulder adjustment

The shoulder is undoubtedly the most important part of the jacket. An ill-fitting shoulder can make the jacket seem too big or too small and therefore detract from the overall harmony of your outfit. Here’s how to do it:

1. Evaluate the fit of the shoulder : Stand in front of a mirror and observe the natural fall of your shoulders. If you notice a crease at the joint between the sleeve and shoulder, there is an imbalance.
2. Get your shoulders touched up : Go to your tailor to ask him to adjust the shoulders of your jacket. This delicate operation consists of reducing or increasing the width of the shoulders, depending on the shape of your body.

Jacket size correction

For a flawless finish, it is essential that the jacket fits perfectly to the curves of your figure. It is therefore necessary to adjust its dimensions:

1. Evaluate the fit of the size : Button up the jacket and check if it fits your body shape without being too tight or open. If this is not the case, some changes will need to be made.
2. Reduce or expand the size : Depending on your needs, ask your tailor to cinch the jacket more (creating a slight curve starting from the hips) or to slightly flare the waist for a more comfortable fit.

Sleeve adjustment

The sleeves of the dress should fall just above the wrists, leaving about an inch of the shirt visible. Here’s how to do it:

1. Consider the length of the sleeve : Put on your t-shirt and jacket and stand in front of a mirror. If you notice that the sleeves are too short or too long, they will need to be altered.
2. Shorten or lengthen the sleeves : Tell your tailor the desired length to achieve an impeccable fit. He or she will be able to cut and sew your sleeves to fit your body shape perfectly.

Trouser fit

The cut and length of the trousers are also fundamental for an impeccable suit:

1. Evaluate the fit of the trousers : Wear the trousers with suitable shoes (in terms of heel height) and look at them in the mirror. If it is too tight or too loose at the hips, thighs, knees or calves, it will need to be adjusted.
2. Adjust your waist and hips : Your tailor will need to adjust the size, tightening or flaring it slightly depending on your needs. Likewise, you will be able to adjust the hips so that the trousers follow the curves of your body perfectly without compressing sensitive areas.
3. Have the length retouched : The ideal length of suit trousers is just above the shoe, with a slight “break” (crease) in the front. Tell your tailor your preferred length so he can cut and hem the bottom of your trousers correctly.

The last word

Now that you are aware of the alterations needed to achieve a flawless dress, do not hesitate to contact a professional to carry out these alterations. You’ll see, it will make a difference! A well-fitted dress will not only make you feel comfortable, but will also exude confidence and elegance that will not go unnoticed.

About the author

Clarisse Mercier

As a sewing lover, I manage the editorial side of ZoneCouture and share my discoveries and advice around this art here.