Wardrobe malfunctions happen to the best of us. Maybe you’ve stumbled upon a vintage treasure, received a cherished hand-me-down, or experienced the natural ebb and flow of your body size.
Regardless of the reason, owning a skirt that is too small doesn’t mean it’s destined for the donation pile. Learning how to alter a too small skirt can save you money and allow you to maintain a sustainable and eco-friendly wardrobe.
With some basic sewing knowledge and a few tools, you can transform that ill-fitting skirt into a comfortable, flattering garment that complements your style.
In this guide, we’ll take you through each step of the alteration process, ensuring that your favorite skirt can once again become a wardrobe staple.
How to Alter a Skirt That Is Too Small? 13 Steps
Altering a too small skirt can save you money and help you get more wear out of your favorite clothing items. Whether it’s a vintage find, a hand-me-down, or a piece you can’t part with, making a too small skirt fit better is a practical and sustainable solution.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to alter a skirt that is too small:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you begin, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need the too-small skirt, a measuring tape, a seam ripper or small scissors, a sewing machine or sewing needle and thread, pins, elastic (optional), and an iron.
Having these items ready will make the alteration process smoother and more efficient.
Step 2: Measure Yourself and the Skirt
Start by measuring yourself at the waist, where you want the skirt to sit comfortably. Take note of this measurement. Next, measure the waist of the skirt itself.
Comparing these measurements will help you determine how much adjustment is needed to make the skirt fit you perfectly.
Step 3: Calculate Extra Width Needed
Now, calculate the extra width you’ll need to add to the skirt. Subtract your waist measurement from the skirt’s waist measurement. This calculation will provide you with the exact amount of fabric you need to add to ensure a proper fit.
Step 4: Prepare the Skirt
Turn the skirt inside out. This will allow you to work on the seams and make adjustments without affecting the visible exterior of the skirt.
Step 5: Open the Side Seams
Carefully use a seam ripper or small scissors to open the side seams of the skirt. Doing this creates openings on both sides of the skirt, which are essential for inserting additional fabric and making the necessary alterations.
Step 6: Cut Fabric Strips
Cut two fabric strips that are long enough to encircle the waist of the skirt, allowing for a slight overlap and wide enough to cover the extra width you calculated earlier.
These fabric strips will serve as the extensions to enlarge the skirt.
Step 7: Attach Fabric Strips
Pin one fabric strip to the inside of one side of the skirt, ensuring that the fabric’s right sides face each other. Use a sewing machine or hand-sew along the pinned edge, securing the fabric strip to the skirt.
Repeat this process on the other side of the skirt with the second fabric strip.
Step 8: Assemble the Skirt
With the fabric strips attached, the skirt will have two overlapping flaps. Lay one flap over the other, aligning the waist edges, and pin them together.
Then, sew along the pinned edge to effectively assemble the skirt with the added fabric strips.
Step 9: Check the Fit
Try on the skirt to check if it now fits comfortably. If the fit is still too tight or too loose, you can make further adjustments by sewing another seam down the center of the fabric strips to achieve your desired fit.
Step 10: Hem the Waistband
Fold over and hem the top edge of the added fabric strips. This creates an elastic band casing if you add one later, providing an adjustable waistband.
Step 11: Add Elastic (Optional)
If you want to adjust the waistband, measure a piece of elastic that fits your waist snugly. Thread it through the casing you created and secure the ends together by overlapping and sewing them or using a sewing machine.
Step 12: Finish the Skirt
Close any openings in the waistband casing with carefully sewn stitches. If necessary, hem the bottom of the skirt to ensure a clean and polished appearance.
Step 13: Press and Clean Up
Finally, iron the waistband and the entire skirt to ensure a smooth, neat finish. Trim any excess threads or fabric for a professional look. Your altered skirt should now fit comfortably and stylishly, ready to be worn and enjoyed once again.
How to Alter a Skirt That Is Too Small Without Sewing?
Altering a skirt that is too small without sewing can be a practical solution when you need a quick fix or want to make temporary adjustments.
While it’s important to note that non-sewing methods may not provide the same level of durability and precision as sewing alterations, they can still help you achieve a more comfortable fit.
Here’s a guide on how to alter a skirt that is too small without sewing:
Waistband Extensions
One of the simplest ways to make a small skirt more comfortable is to use a waistband extension. Take a hair tie, an elastic band, or a piece of ribbon and thread it through the buttonhole of the skirt’s waistband.
Then, pull it through and secure it around the button on the other side. This method instantly expands the waistband, offering a quick fix for a tight fit.
Belt It Up
A stylish belt can work wonders for a skirt that is too small. Choose a belt that complements your outfit and wear it around your waist, over the skirt.
This adds a fashionable touch and cinches in the skirt at your desired level, making it fit more comfortably.
Safety Pins and Elastic Bands
Attach safety pins to both sides of the waistband for a more adjustable solution. Thread elastic bands or hair ties through the safety pins and adjust the tension to achieve your desired fit.
Be cautious not to prick yourself with the safety pins while doing this.
Layer It
If the skirt’s length allows, consider layering it over leggings, tights, or another skirt or slip. This extra layer can add both comfort and coverage while accommodating the skirt’s smaller size.
Wear It Differently
Experiment with wearing the skirt differently to make it more comfortable. Try wearing it higher on your waist or lower on your hips to create a different fit that may feel less constricting.
Add a Fabric Panel
While a bit more involved, adding a fabric panel to the sides of the skirt can effectively increase its width. Use a matching or contrasting color fabric for a stylish and creative alteration.
Try a Waistband Extender
Consider investing in a waistband extender or expander, available in stores or online. These specially designed accessories provide extra room in the waistband of your clothing, offering a comfortable solution for too-tight skirts.
FAQs
Can I alter a skirt that is too small without sewing?
Yes, you can use methods like adding a waistband extender, wearing a belt, or using safety pins with elastic to make temporary adjustments without sewing.
What if my skirt is too tight even after alterations?
If the skirt is still too tight after alterations, consider using a waistband extender or reevaluating the fabric strips for a more comfortable fit.
Can I alter a skirt that is too small if it has a lining?
Yes, you can alter a skirt with a lining. Follow the same steps as you would for the outer fabric, making sure to sew through both layers when attaching the fabric strips and making adjustments.
Is it possible to alter a skirt that is too small for a specific occasion?
Yes, altering a skirt to fit for a specific occasion is a great idea. Just plan ahead to allow time for the alterations and fittings, especially if you have a deadline.
Can I alter a skirt with a zipper or buttons in the waistband?
You can still alter a skirt with zippers or buttons in the waistband. You will need to carefully open the seams around the waistband and reattach them after making your alterations.
To Recap
The art of altering a too small skirt is a valuable skill that empowers you to revive cherished clothing items and reduce fashion waste.
By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this guide, you can transform an ill-fitting skirt into one that fits comfortably and flatters your figure.
Whether it’s a thrift store find, a sentimental piece, or an investment in sustainability, modifying your wardrobe provides economic and environmental benefits.
Embrace the creativity and resourcefulness of DIY alterations, and with practice, you’ll expand your fashion horizons and contribute to a more sustainable and mindful approach to dressing.
So, don’t let a too small skirt gather dust – instead, give it new life and wear it proudly as a testament to your sewing prowess and style sensibility.
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