Swimsuits are an essential part of summer attire, but finding the right fit can be a challenge. Many swimsuits available in stores are either too loose or too constricting, leaving some people feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable. A more fitted swimsuit can provide a better fit, better support, and a more streamlined appearance.
However, finding a swimsuit that fits perfectly can be difficult, especially if you have a unique body type or specific fit preferences. In these cases, altering a store-bought swimsuit may be the best option. In this blog post, we will discuss how to make swim trunks tighter, including both DIY alterations you can make at home and professional alterations by a tailor.
Alterations You Can Make at Home
There are several alterations you can make at home to make your swim trunks tighter. Here are some options:
Using a Belt or Drawstring
If your swim trunks are too loose around the waist, you can use a belt or drawstring to cinch them in. Simply thread the belt or drawstring through the loops on the waistband and tighten as desired. This is a quick and easy fix that can give you a more fitted waist without any permanent changes to the trunks.
Taking in the Seams
If you have a little bit of sewing experience, you can take in the seams of your swim trunks to make them smaller. Start by trying on the trunks and marking where you want them to fit more snugly. Then, take them off and lay them flat. Use a sewing machine or needle and thread to make small, even tucks along the marked lines. This will bring the fabric in, giving you a more fitted fit.
Using Fabric Glue or Iron-on Patches
If the waistband of your swim trunks is too loose, you can use fabric glue or iron-on patches to reinforce it. Simply apply the glue or patches along the inside of the waistband, making sure to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. This will make the waistband more sturdy and less likely to stretch out over time.
Remember to test out your alterations before fully committing to them. You may need to make additional adjustments to get the fit you desire.
Professional alterations
If you want a more fitted swimsuit but are not comfortable making alterations at home, you can seek out a professional tailor.
Here are some tips for finding a tailor who can alter your swim trunks:
- Look for a tailor who has experience altering swimwear. While any tailor should be able to make basic alterations to your swim trunks, someone who has experience working with swimsuit fabric and construction will likely be more skilled and efficient at making the changes you desire.
- Discuss your desired fit with the tailor. Before you bring your swim trunks to the tailor, make sure you have a clear idea of how you want them to fit. Bring a photo or sketch of your ideal fit if it helps. This will give the tailor a better understanding of what you are looking for and allow them to make recommendations for how to achieve it.
- Consider potential alterations. Some alterations that a tailor may be able to make to your swim trunks include taking in the waist, shortening the leg length, and adding a non-elastic waistband. Keep in mind that some alterations, such as adding a non-elastic waistband, may be more involved and costly than others.
A professional tailor can provide a more precise and durable alteration than you might be able to achieve at home. However, keep in mind that alterations can be expensive, so be sure to discuss the cost with the tailor before proceeding.
Tips for a successful alteration
To ensure a successful alteration of your swim trunks, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Measure yourself accurately. Before seeking alterations, it’s important to know your accurate measurements. This will help the tailor determine the proper fit and make the necessary adjustments. Measure your waist, hips, and inseam, and bring these measurements with you when you visit the tailor.
- Choose a sturdy fabric. Swimming trunks are often made of lightweight, quick-drying fabrics that can be more delicate and prone to tearing during the alteration process. Look for a swimsuit made of a sturdy fabric that can withstand the alterations you desire. This will ensure that your swim trunks hold up well after the alterations are made.
- Be clear about your desired fit. Communication is key when it comes to alterations. Be clear about your desired fit with the tailor and make sure they understand exactly what you want. This will help ensure that you are happy with the finished product.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your swim trunks are altered to your desired fit and will hold up well over time.
Swimsuit Alteration Options
| Option | Description | Difficulty Level | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Using a belt or drawstring | Threading a belt or drawstring through the loops on the waistband to cinch the trunks in | Easy | Low |
| Taking in the seams | Making small, even tucks along the marked lines to bring the fabric in and achieve a more fitted fit | Moderate | Moderate |
| Using fabric glue or iron-on patches | Applying glue or patches along the inside of the waistband to reinforce it and prevent stretching | Easy | Low |
| Professional alterations | Seeking out a professional tailor to make alterations such as taking in the waist, shortening the leg length, or adding a non-elastic waistband | Varies | Varies |
Note: Difficulty level and cost are subjective and may vary based on the specific alterations being made.
FAQs
Most swimsuits can be altered to some extent, but some types may be more difficult to alter than others. For example, one-piece swimsuits with a lot of structural details, such as ruffles or pleats, may be more difficult to alter than a simple pair of swim trunks. It’s always best to consult with a tailor or seamstress before attempting to alter any type of swimsuit to ensure that it can be altered successfully.
The cost of altering a swimsuit will depend on the complexity of the alterations and the location of the tailor. Simple alterations, such as taking in the waist or shortening the leg length, may cost less than more complex alterations, such as adding a non-elastic waistband. It’s always a good idea to get a quote from the tailor before proceeding with the alterations to ensure that the cost is within your budget.
It is generally easier to alter a swimsuit to make it smaller than to make it bigger. However, some alterations, such as adding fabric to the waistband or leg openings, may be able to make a swimsuit larger. It’s always best to consult with a tailor or seamstress to see what options are available for making a swimsuit bigger.
It is possible to alter a swimsuit to change its style or cut, but this may be more difficult than making simple size adjustments. For example, it may be possible to turn a pair of swim trunks into a pair of swim briefs or jammers, but this will likely require more extensive alterations. It’s always best to consult with a tailor or seamstress to see what options are available for altering the style or cut of a swimsuit.
If you have basic sewing skills, you may be able to make simple alterations to a swimsuit at home. However, more complex alterations, such as adding a non-elastic waistband, may be best left to a professional tailor. If you are not comfortable with sewing or do not have the necessary skills, it’s best to seek out a professional tailor to make the alterations for you.
Editor’s Note
It sounds like you are looking for a swimsuit that is more fitted and has a heavier fabric. Some options you may want to consider include:
- A swim brief or jammers style swimsuit. These are similar to trunks but are more fitted and have a shorter leg length. They are often made of a more sturdy fabric and do not have an elastic waistband.
- A racing swimsuit. These are designed for competitive swimming and are usually made of a more durable, non-stretch fabric. They may be more fitted and have a shorter leg length than traditional trunks or board shorts.
- Custom swimsuits. As you mentioned, there are several companies that offer custom swimsuits for men. These can be made to your specific measurements and preferences, so you can get a swimsuit that fits perfectly and meets your needs.
- Swimming trunks with alterations. If you prefer the style of trunks but want a more fitted fit, you may be able to have a tailor alter a pair to your desired fit. This could include taking in the waist, shortening the leg length, or adding a non-elastic waistband.
Ultimately, the best swimsuit for you will depend on your personal preferences and body type. It may be helpful to try on a variety of styles and see which one works best for you.
Conclusion
Finding a swimsuit that fits well and feels comfortable is essential for enjoying your time in the water. If you are having difficulty finding a swimsuit that meets your fit and style preferences, making alterations to a store-bought swimsuit may be a good option. Whether you choose to make alterations at home or seek out a professional tailor, there are several ways you can make your swim trunks tighter and achieve the fit you desire.
Making alterations to a store-bought swimsuit can be a cost-effective and efficient way to get the perfect fit. It’s also a great way to customize a swimsuit to your specific needs and preferences. If you are having trouble finding a swimsuit that fits well, consider the alteration option. It may be just what you need to feel confident and comfortable in your swimsuit.
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