What we can do
Dresses and gowns
Take in the bodice, waist or hips. The lining, zip and any decorative details get adjusted with the outer seams, so it all sits right.
Pants and jeans
Fix a loose waistband or take in the legs and thighs. We’ll make sure the seat and pockets still sit nicely.
Jackets, shirts and tops
Side seams, back seams, darts or sleeves can all lose some fullness. Structured jackets take extra care, and we’ll explain what’s involved.
Casual and stretch clothing
Bring in activewear and casual pieces too. We’ll choose stitching that suits the stretch and how you’ll wear it.
How much does it cost?
The number of seams, lining, waistbands, fastenings and how much needs to come in all affect the price.
| Alteration | Indicative price |
|---|---|
Take in a trouser waistWaistband construction and the amount of adjustment matter.Extras
| $45–$65 |
| Take in a jeans waistA waistband adjustment; other changes are quoted separately. | $50–$60 |
| Taper trouser legsThe seams involved and extent of reshaping affect the price. | $30–$70 |
These are guides for the named alteration on one garment, not fixed quotes or maximum prices. Listed extras are added to the guide price and can be combined. Fabric, finish, construction and any other extra work can change the price, so we’ll always check your garment and confirm the quote before we start. Express surcharges are extra.
Price guide reviewed 20 October 2026.
A closer fit with room to move
Choosing what to change
Taking in can mean a smaller waistband, slimmer sides, a shaped bodice, narrower sleeves or tapered legs. Show us where it feels loose and where it already fits well. We look at all of it together, including darts, fastenings and pockets, so you only change what will really make a difference.
Everyday clothes and structured outfits
A T-shirt, a dress and a tailored jacket are made very differently, and taking in one area can change how another sits. Bring the layers, shoes or undergarments you usually wear with it, especially for formal or special-occasion outfits. At the fitting, sit and move around, not just stand in front of the mirror.
Your questions
Can you take in suits and formal dresses?
Yes. We take in suit jackets and trousers, evening gowns and cocktail dresses. The lining, structure and decoration change the approach, so we’ll look at yours at the fitting.
Will the extra fabric be kept?
Just ask at the fitting. If the garment allows it, we can leave the fabric inside the seams in case you want to let it out later.
Can clothes be taken in several sizes?
It depends on the garment. Pockets, armholes, shoulders, fastenings and decorative details can look out of proportion after a big reduction. We’ll look at how it’s made and tell you what will look good.
Can taking in be undone later?
Sometimes, if we leave enough fabric inside the seams. Tell us before we start if you’d like to keep that option open.
Will taking in the waist fix a baggy seat too?
Not always. The waistband, seat and legs can each need different seams adjusted. We’ll look at the whole fit and explain each change before giving you a price.
How long will the work take, and is express available?
Most simple jobs are ready in 3–5 days, and more complex work in 1–2 weeks. In a rush? Express options are available for an extra fee. Just tell us your deadline. Express rates are 30% for same-day, 20% for next-day and 10% for two-day work, or 40% for same-day and 30% for next-day on Saturdays. Express depends on how busy we are, so we’ll confirm it and your pickup time before we start.