Just because something doesn’t fit you correctly when you are out thrift store shopping or has a slight imperfection, doesn’t mean you have to leave it. A few important things to keep in mind when thrifting; hems can be altered, buttons can be added, and zippers can be replaced!  We recommend that if you like what you see, grab it and don’t look back! If you leave it on the rack, more than likely, it probably won’t be there the next time you go back.  

There are generally two paths to getting that look that you envision through alterations, and we’d like to delve into them both a little further. You can decide which path is for you: 

1. Do It Yourself (DIY)

If you have been looking to learn how to sew or already know how;  then the DIY option might just be the choice for you! The great thing is, especially for beginners; you won’t be starting an entire garment from scratch.

And, because the cost of most items in a resell store are generally cheaper to purchase than the materials to make an article of clothing from scratch (not to mention the time); you can learn away more cost effectively!

So, feel free to buy up those items that scream to you from the racks,  and don’t shy away from bringing your vision of what they could be to life! 

2. Hire Out The Job

If being a crafty king or queen isn’t your thing, or you just don’t have the time for it; then hiring out your alterations may be the thing for you. According to this  alteration article that we love, here are some breakdown costs for the services: 

  • Hemming Pants, Skirts, or Dresses: $10 to $25 – Skirts with a lining cost more to hem than unlined ones.
  • Shortening Sleeves: $15 to $40 – Jacket sleeves cost more than shirt sleeves, and jackets with buttons and linings cost more than plain ones.
  • Adjusting a Waistband: $15 to $25 – Pants or skirts with linings cost more than unlined ones.
  • Taking In a Dress Shirt: $15 to $30
  • Taking In a Jacket or Vest: $20 to $50 – Jackets with three seams cost more than those with two. Taking in the sleeves costs an additional $20 or so, and adjusting the shoulders costs around $40.
  • Taking In a Sheath Dress: $30 to $50 – Raising the waist on a dress costs around $60.
  • Shortening a Suit Jacket: $30 to $40
  • Replacing a Zipper: $20
  • Replacing the Lining on a Garment: $50 to $150

Remember, if it’s a great quality item that could use a quick fix, it might still be worth buying; consider your alteration options.  And, you just may be able to haggle down the price a bit too. Talk about steals and deals!

Wishing You Happy Thrifting! 

If you are interested in thrift shopping at Arc of Acadiana, check out some of our local stores today!