Making Thrifted Finds Look Brand New with Simple Alterations
We all love a good bargain. There’s nothing quite like finding that perfect piece of clothing at a thrift store for a fraction of its original price. However, sometimes these thrifted finds might not be the best fit or style for us. But don’t let that discourage you! With some simple alterations, you can transform those thrifted treasures into stylish pieces that look and feel brand new. In this article, we’ll go over some easy alterations that will make your thrifted finds look like they were made just for you. So, let’s get started!
The Importance of Alterations
When it comes to thrift shopping, alterations are crucial. Unlike buying from a regular retail store, thrifted items have most likely been previously owned and worn by someone else. This means that the fit and style might not be exactly what you’re looking for. By making some alterations, you can personalize and customize the clothing to your liking, ensuring that it looks and fits just the way you want it to.
Know What Alterations You Need
Before you start altering your thrifted finds, it’s important to know exactly what needs to be altered. Is the garment too big? Too long? Too loose? It’s always helpful to try on the piece and identify what areas need to be fixed. This will save you time and effort in the long run.
Let’s Talk About Fit
One of the most common alterations needed for thrifted clothing is adjusting the fit. If the garment is too big, you can easily take it in by sewing along the side seams. This will instantly give the piece a more tailored and fitted look. On the other hand, if the item is too small, you can try letting it out or adding some fabric to widen it.
Another fit-related alteration is adjusting the length of the garment. If the item is too long, you can hem it to your desired length. This is a quick and easy fix that can make a huge difference. You can also try cropping a longer top or dress to give it a more modern and stylish look.
Revamp the Style
While thrifted finds have a unique charm, they might not always match our personal style. But with a few changes, you can completely transform the look of the garment. For example, you can replace outdated buttons with more modern ones, add some embroidery or patches, or even dye the fabric to a new color.
You can also change the silhouette of the garment by altering the neckline or sleeve length. This can give an otherwise ordinary piece a whole new look.
Tailoring Tips for a Professional Fit
If you’re new to alterations or don’t feel comfortable doing them yourself, it’s always a good idea to take your thrifted finds to a professional tailor. They have the skills and expertise to ensure that the alterations are done correctly and give the garment a flawless finish.
Additionally, if you’re planning on making a lot of alterations, it might be worth investing in a sewing machine. This will not only save you money in the long run, but it will also give you the freedom to play with different styles and techniques.
Final Thoughts
Thrifting is not only a fun and sustainable way to shop, but it also allows you to be creative and experiment with your style. By making some simple alterations, you can transform your thrifted finds into unique and stylish pieces that look and feel brand new. So next time you hit up your local thrift store, don’t shy away from that piece with a not-so-perfect fit – with a little bit of love, it can become your new wardrobe favorite.
Remember, alterations don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With some basic sewing skills and a little bit of patience, you can revamp your thrifted finds and make them look like they were tailored just for you.
Happy thrifting!
