 "I hope you love the products I recommend! When you buy through links on maryjanesandgaloshes.com, I may earn an affiliate commission." 

Buying off the rack clothing is convenient, but the fit is not always perfect. Tailoring tricks that make store bought clothes fit like they were made just for you! With a few simple adjustments, you can transform an ordinary piece into a polished, customized wardrobe staple. Here are 12 must know tailoring tricks that will instantly elevate your off the rack clothing.

Hem Pants to the Perfect Length for a Polished Look

Most store bought pants are designed for average heights, which means they often run too long or too short. For a custom look, hem them to just graze the top of your shoes for dress pants or slightly above the ankle for a modern, cropped style. Use double sided fabric tape for a quick fix or take them to a tailor for a permanent, clean finish.

Taper the Waist for a More Flattering Silhouette

A well fitted waist makes all the difference in achieving a polished, tailored look. If your pants, skirts or dresses are too loose at the waist, take them in slightly for a sleek, curve enhancing shape. Pinch the extra fabric at the back, mark it with chalk and either sew it yourself or have a professional tailor adjust the seams.

Cinch Oversized Dresses with a Chic Belt or Hidden Elastic

Loose, boxy dresses can look unflattering if they do not define your shape. A simple trick is to add a belt for instant waist definition. For a more tailored effect, sew a hidden elastic band inside the waistline to create a gathered, custom fit silhouette without the need for a visible accessory.

Shorten Jacket Sleeves for a More Proportional Fit

Jackets often come with standard sleeve lengths, which may be too long for some people. Ideally, sleeves should end right at your wrist bone for a polished look. If a blazer or coat sleeve is too long, roll it up for a casual vibe or have it shortened by a tailor for a professional, clean finish.

Raise or Lower the Hemline for the Perfect Skirt or Dress Length

A dress or skirt that hits at an awkward length can throw off your entire outfit. Midi dresses might need a slight shortening to flatter your height while mini skirts can be lengthened by adding a lace trim or fabric panel. Adjusting the hemline to match your body proportions makes a huge difference in how polished an outfit looks.

Replace Cheap Buttons with High Quality Alternatives

Photo Credit: YuriArcursPeopleimages/Envato

An easy way to elevate the look of off the rack clothing is by swapping out the generic plastic buttons for something more sophisticated. Try pearl, metallic or unique vintage style buttons to instantly give your outfit a designer feel. This quick and inexpensive trick works wonders on blazers, shirts and coats.

Take in Baggy Sleeves for a More Streamlined Fit

If a shirt, dress or blazer has overly puffy or baggy sleeves, they can make the whole outfit look boxy and unflattering. A quick tailoring trick is to taper the sleeves slightly, removing extra fabric while maintaining movement. This subtle fix instantly makes your outfit look more put together.

Add Darts to Create Shape and Structure

Darts are small, stitched folds in fabric that help clothing conform to your body shape. If a blouse, dress or blazer looks too boxy, sewing strategic darts at the bust or waist can create a more flattering, structured fit. This trick works especially well for women’s tailored pieces.

Adjust Shoulder Seams for a More Fitted Look

Clothing that does not sit right on your shoulders can make the entire outfit look sloppy. If a blazer or shirt is too wide in the shoulders, taking in the seams slightly can create a sleeker, more refined silhouette. A well fitted shoulder instantly makes any piece look more expensive and custom made.

Use Invisible Stitching for a Clean, Professional Finish

Photo Credit: Kateryna_Maksymenko/Envato

If you are hemming, tapering or making any adjustments, use an invisible hand stitch or blind hem stitch for a professional touch. This keeps the fabric looking seamless and high end rather than visibly altered. A few well placed stitches can make any off the rack item look custom tailored.

elated Post: 15 Designer-Level Details That Make DIY Clothes Look Expensive

Shrink Slightly Loose Clothing with a Hot Water Soak

If a cotton or linen garment is just a little too big, try shrinking it by soaking it in hot water for 10-15 minutes before air drying. This method tightens the fabric slightly without major alterations, making it a great trick for minor sizing issues. Just be careful with delicate fabrics that may shrink too much!

Add Side Panels for a Custom Color Block Effect

If a dress, blazer or top is too snug, instead of discarding it, try adding contrasting fabric panels along the sides. This not only expands the fit but also creates a trendy, color blocked effect that looks intentional and stylish. It’s a great way to salvage an item that no longer fits while adding a designer inspired detail.

Off the rack clothing doesn’t have to look generic, a few simple tailoring tricks can make any piece feel high end and custom fitted. Whether it’s adjusting the waist, hemming the perfect length or swapping out buttons, these easy techniques ensure your clothes always look stylish, flattering and effortlessly put together. With just a little tweaking, your wardrobe can have that perfect, made for you fit, without breaking the bank!

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

Give Your Old Dresses a Stunning Makeover with These 15 Sewing Tricks

Why let your old dresses sit unused when you can breathe new life into them with just a few simple sewing tricks? Whether it’s an outdated dress sitting in your closet or a piece that no longer fits quite right, these 15 sewing tricks will help you transform your old dresses into something fresh, trendy and unique. It’s time to get creative and revamp your wardrobe without breaking the bank! Ready to give your dresses a stunning makeover? Here’s how you can do it.

Read it here: Give Your Old Dresses a Stunning Makeover with These 15 Sewing Tricks

12 Upcycling Ideas That Will Make Your Wardrobe Look Expensive

We all want a wardrobe that looks chic, stylish and high end, but sometimes, the budget doesn’t quite align with the vision. Do not worry, upcycling is your secret weapon! With a little creativity and some DIY skills, you can transform your old clothes into sophisticated, high fashion pieces that look like they came straight off the runway. Ready to elevate your style without breaking the bank? Here are 12 upcycling ideas that will make your wardrobe look expensive!

Read it here: 12 Upcycling Ideas That Will Make Your Wardrobe Look Expensive

Steal These 15 Designer Secrets to Elevate Your Wardrobe for Free

Want to look like you have just stepped out of a fashion magazine but don’t want to spend a dime? You don’t need a designer budget to elevate your wardrobe. In fact, some of the most chic, stylish looks come from clever, free styling techniques. With a little creativity and these 15 designer secrets, you can transform your wardrobe and bring high end vibes without spending a cent. Ready to elevate your style? Let’s dive into these simple yet effective tricks to give your wardrobe a major upgrade! clothing items.

Read it here: Steal These 15 Designer Secrets to Elevate Your Wardrobe for Free

You’ll love these related posts: