Tailoring Tricks: Expert Tips for Tailoring a Dress Shirt
Dress shirts are a versatile wardrobe essential that can be worn for both casual and formal events. However, finding a dress shirt that fits perfectly can be a challenge, especially for those with body types that don’t conform to standard sizing. The good news is that with the right tailoring tricks, it’s possible to transform a shirt that is too big, too small or simply ill-fitting into one that looks and feels great. In this article, we will share expert tips and tricks for tailoring a dress shirt that is custom-made for you.
1. Invest in a High-Quality Dress Shirt
The first step to tailoring a dress shirt is to invest in one that is high-quality and made from durable fabric. Look for shirts that are made from cotton, linen or silk as these fabrics have a great texture and drape well on the body. When choosing a dress shirt, consider the fit and size of the shirt. A good rule of thumb is that the collar should fit snugly around the neck, the sleeves should extend to the wrist bone and the shirt should be well-fitted around the body without being too tight.
2. Assess the Fit of the Shirt
Once you have a dress shirt that is of good quality, the next step is to assess the fit of the shirt. Lay the shirt flat on a table or ironing board and smooth out any wrinkles. Check the shoulders to make sure that they are aligned with your own shoulders. If the shirt is too big or too small, the shoulders may be too wide or narrow. Check the sleeves to make sure that they are the right length. If the sleeves are too long or too short, they may need to be shortened or lengthened.
3. Take Accurate Measurements
The key to tailoring a dress shirt that fits perfectly is to take accurate measurements. Use a tape measure to measure the circumference of your chest, waist and hips. Take the measurement around the fullest part of each area. Measure the length of your arms from the top of your shoulder to your wrist bone. Take the measurement of your neck wrapping the tape measure around the base of your neck. Knowing your measurements will help you to identify areas where the shirt needs to be taken in or let out to fit properly.
4. Take In or Let Out the Shirt
Once you have identified the areas where the shirt needs to be altered, the next step is to take in or let out the shirt. If the shirt is too big, it may need to be taken in at the sides or back. If the shirt is too small, it may need to be let out in the same areas. Always make sure that the alterations are even on both sides. A good tailor can help you to make these adjustments and ensure that the shirt fits perfectly.
5. Hem the Sleeves
If the sleeves of the dress shirt are too long, they will need to be hemmed. The sleeve should end at the wrist bone, just below the hand. A tailor will be able to shorten the sleeves and maintain the cuffs so that the original look of the shirt is not compromised. If the sleeves are too short, they can be lengthened adding a cuff or more fabric to the end of the sleeve.
6. Adjust the Collar
The collar of a dress shirt is a crucial component that can make or break its overall look. A well-fitting collar should be snug around the neck without being too tight. If the collar is too big or too small, it may need to be adjusted or replaced. A tailor can help you to choose a collar that fits your neck and looks good with the style of the shirt.
7. Consider Customization Options
Customizing a dress shirt is a great way to make it unique and personalized to your style. Some customization options include adding monograms or personalizing the buttons. You can also choose to get a shirt made from scratch to your exact measurements and specifications. A tailor can help you to explore these options and create a shirt that is truly one-of-a-kind.
FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to have a dress shirt tailored?
A: The cost of tailoring a dress shirt can vary depending on the extent of the alterations and the location of the tailor. On average, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 for basic alterations such as hemming sleeves and taking in the shirt at the sides or back. More complex alterations such as adjusting the collar or creating a custom-made shirt will cost more.
Q: How long does it take to tailor a dress shirt?
A: The amount of time it takes to tailor a dress shirt can also vary depending on the extent of the alterations and the availability of the tailor. On average, you can expect to wait between one and two weeks for basic alterations. More complex alterations or custom-made shirts may take longer than this.
Q: Can you tailor a non-iron dress shirt?
A: Yes, non-iron dress shirts can be tailored just like any other dress shirt. However, some tailors may charge more for non-iron shirts as they can be more difficult to work with.
Conclusion
Tailoring a dress shirt can seem daunting, but with the right tricks and tips, it’s possible to create a shirt that fits perfectly and looks great. Start investing in a high-quality dress shirt and assessing the fit before taking accurate measurements. Work with a skilled tailor to make alterations where necessary, and consider customization options for a truly unique shirt. With these expert tips, you’ll never have to settle for ill-fitting shirts again.