How to Alter a Trapeze Dress

If you’ve ever found yourself in possession of a trapeze dress that doesn’t quite fit the way you’d like, don’t despair! Altering a trapeze dress can be a straightforward and rewarding process, allowing you to tailor the garment to your body’s unique shape. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to alter a trapeze dress, ensuring that it fits perfectly and flatters your figure.

1. Assess the Dress

Before you begin, take a moment to assess the dress and identify the areas that need alteration. Common issues with trapeze dresses include a too-tight bust, a too-long or too-short hem, and an uneven waistline. Make a note of these issues so you can address them during the alteration process.

2. Gather Your Tools

To alter a trapeze dress, you’ll need a few essential tools. These include a pair of sharp scissors, pins, a measuring tape, a sewing machine, and the appropriate thread color. If you’re not confident in your sewing skills, consider seeking the help of a professional seamstress.

3. Adjust the Bust

If the dress is too tight around the bust, you may need to take in the side seams. Begin by marking the desired points of reduction on the side seams, then cut along the marks. Remove the excess fabric, pin the sides together, and sew them back up, ensuring that the bust area is now the correct size.

4. Hem the Dress

To hem a trapeze dress, you’ll need to measure the desired length and mark it on the hem. Cut off the excess fabric, then fold the hem up by 1/4 inch and press it. Fold it up again by another 1/4 inch and press again. Finally, sew the hem in place, taking care to keep the stitching as close to the edge as possible.

5. Adjust the Waistline

If the waistline is uneven or too high, you can adjust it by taking in the side seams or adding a new waistband. To take in the side seams, follow the same steps as in the bust adjustment. To add a new waistband, measure the waist circumference, cut a strip of fabric to the desired width and length, and sew it into place around the waistline.

6. Final Touches

Once you’ve made all the necessary alterations, take a moment to press the dress and ensure that all seams are even and straight. If you’re happy with the results, you can remove any pins and enjoy your perfectly altered trapeze dress.

By following these simple steps, you can transform a trapeze dress that doesn’t fit into a garment that flatters your figure and makes you feel confident. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different alterations until you find the perfect fit for you.