How to Alter a Gored Skirt
Gored skirts, with their distinct pleated edges and fullness, are a popular choice for both casual and formal wear. However, if you find that your gored skirt doesn’t fit quite right, don’t despair. With a few simple alterations, you can tailor your skirt to fit your body perfectly. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to alter a gored skirt, ensuring that it flatters your figure and enhances your style.
Understanding the Structure of a Gored Skirt
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s essential to understand the structure of a gored skirt. A gored skirt is made up of triangular panels, known as gores, which are attached at the waist and pleated at the hem. These gores create the skirt’s fullness and give it its characteristic shape. Knowing this will help you identify the areas that need adjustment.
Assessing the Fit
The first step in altering a gored skirt is to assess its fit. Take your skirt and stand in front of a mirror. Look for areas where the skirt is too tight or too loose. Common issues include a tight waistband, a tight hem, or a lack of fullness in the skirt. Once you’ve identified the problem areas, you can proceed with the appropriate alteration.
Altering the Waistband
If your skirt is too tight at the waist, you can ease it out by taking in the sides. Begin by marking the desired width of the waistband on the inside of the skirt. Then, cut a straight line from the center front to the side seam. Repeat on the other side. Sew the new seams, and trim any excess fabric. This will create a looser waistband that fits more comfortably.
Altering the Hem
If the hem of your skirt is too tight, you can let it out by adding width to the bottom edge. Begin by marking the desired width of the hem on the inside of the skirt. Then, cut a straight line from the center back to the side seam. Repeat on the other side. Sew the new seams, and trim any excess fabric. This will create a wider hem that falls more gracefully.
Adding Fullness
If your skirt lacks fullness, you can add it by creating additional gores. To do this, measure the desired width of the new gore and mark it on the skirt’s side seam. Cut a straight line from the waist to the hem, creating a triangle. Repeat on the other side. Sew the new gores to the skirt, and pleat them as needed. This will add fullness to the skirt, making it more flattering and comfortable.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve made the necessary alterations, take a moment to press the seams and pleats. This will ensure that your skirt looks its best. If you’re unhappy with the pleating, you can adjust it by hand or use a pleating tool to create a more uniform look.
Conclusion
Altering a gored skirt can be a simple and rewarding process. By understanding the structure of the skirt and following these steps, you can tailor your skirt to fit your body perfectly. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautifully fitting gored skirt that complements your style and enhances your confidence.
