Shirt Alterations 101: The Secret to a Perfect Fit

When it comes to fashion, fit is everything. You could wear the most expensive shirt on the market, but if it doesn’t fit well, it won’t do you any favours. That’s where shirt alterations come in — the unsung heroes of style and confidence.

Why Alter a Shirt?

Off-the-rack shirts are made to fit an average size. The problem? None of us are average. Whether it’s an overly baggy sleeve, a collar that feels like a vice, or a hem that hits at the wrong spot, small details can ruin an otherwise great shirt. Alterations allow you to tailor a shirt to your body, enhancing comfort, appearance, and personal style.

Common Shirt Alterations (And Why They Matter)

1. Taking in the Sides
   Got a shirt that billows like a sail? Slimming the sides gives your silhouette a cleaner, sharper look. It’s one of the most requested alterations and makes a massive difference, especially with dress shirts.

2. Shortening the Sleeves
   Sleeves that hang too low can look sloppy. Ideal shirt sleeves should stop just past your wrist bone. A tailor can shorten them from the cuff or, in some cases, from the shoulder — depending on the shirt’s construction.

3. Adjusting the Shoulders
   This one is tricky and often not worth the cost unless the shirt is high quality. Shoulder adjustments require a significant amount of work and can alter the overall balance of the shirt.

4. Darting the Back
   Adding darts (subtle, sewn-in tucks) can taper the shirt for a more fitted look without taking in the sides too dramatically. It’s a great middle-ground for those who want a tailored look without losing comfort.

5. Collar Adjustments
   If your collar is too tight or too loose, it can be uncomfortable and look off. Collars can sometimes be resized or replaced, though it’s not a common alteration due to the cost and complexity.

6. Shortening the Hem
   Want to wear your shirt untucked? The hem should sit around mid-zip level. Tailors can shorten the length to ensure your shirt looks intentional — not oversized.

When to Alter (And When Not To)

Alterations make sense when the shirt is good quality, has sentimental value, or fits well in most areas but needs fine-tuning. However, if a shirt is several sizes too big or made of a delicate fabric, it might be best to skip the tailor and shop for a better fit.

Cost vs. Value

Most basic alterations — taking in sides, sleeve shortening, and darts — are affordable, ranging from £10 to £30 in the UK. Compared to the price of a custom shirt, it's a small investment for a major style upgrade.

Final Thoughts

A well-fitting shirt doesn’t just look good — it makes you feel more confident and put-together. Whether it’s your workwear wardrobe or a special occasion shirt, a few tweaks from a skilled tailor can make all the difference.

So next time you find a shirt that’s “almost perfect,” don’t leave it on the rack. Take it to a tailor and make it truly yours.