It’s inevitable - when planning an outfit for an upcoming event, I always go shopping for something new to wear. This behavior doesn’t do my pocketbook or the slew of clothing in my closet any favors. Truth is, I have plenty of clothing items to wear, but many of them just don’t fit exactly how I want. (A gaping waistline, the wrong inseam length, etc.)

Most of the items in question were found on sale, thus my “it’s not perfect, but it’s such a good deal” mentality. Yet these items end up gathering dust for reasons that, with the right tailor, could be very easily fixed. A snip here and a tuck there can instantly make a huge difference!

InStyle magazine recently published a piece on tailoring for perfection. Here are some tips for finding a skilled tailor, as well as what you can do to common items of clothing to create the perfect look.

When looking for a tailor, word of mouth is the best policy. Ask around! If that’s not an option, check out the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals. Once you’ve found a tailor, be sure to set up a consultation. Check samples to make sure they meet your standards. Ask questions about the process. Can the tailor replicate the stitch and thread of the original item? These issues will be important in the the long run.

Let’s take a look at some of the common, ill-fitting items you might have hanging in your closet right now.

Printed Shift Dress, Banana Republic

Shift Dress

• Bring in the bust - Be sure to wear the right bra to ensure proper alterations.
• Cinch the waist - If the garment twirls loosely, it’s too big.
• Take note of the hem - An inch above the knee is very popular right now, but hem to the best part of your legs. Don’t let trends influence you.

Classic Trouser, J. Crew

Pants

• Check the seat - Even loose-fitting pants should have shape in the seat. Make sure the fabric doesn’t bunch or gather.
• Narrow the inseams - With slimmer inseams, pants will fall gracefully from the hips without heavy breaks in the fabric.
• Raise/lower the hem - Bring the shoes you intend to wear, and have each pant leg pinned separately since legs aren’t always the exact same length.

Blazer, Martin+Osa

Blazer

• Slim the sleeves - For a more feminine look, taper boxy sleeves to add more separation between arms and the waist.
• Nip at the waist - Flaunt your natural curves by giving instant shape through the waist.
• Watch your wrists - Hem the arm length to hit exactly at your wrist.