Maxi dresses have been a staple in women’s fashion for years, but sometimes they can be a bit too long. Whether you want to show off your shoes or just don’t want to trip over excess fabric, shortening a maxi dress can be a simple solution. Here are some tips on how to shorten your maxi dress to the perfect length.
Materials Needed
Before you start shortening your maxi dress, you’ll need a few materials:
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Pins
- Iron
- Thread
- Sewing machine or needle
Step 1: Measure
First, try on the maxi dress with the shoes you plan on wearing with it. Measure the length you want the dress to be from the bottom hem. Make sure to measure from the highest point of the shoe.
Step 2: Pin
Using the measuring tape, mark the new hemline with pins. Make sure to measure and pin evenly around the dress.
Step 3: Cut
Carefully cut the excess fabric from the bottom of the dress, following the pinned line. Be sure to leave a little extra fabric for hemming.
Step 4: Hem
Fold the excess fabric under twice and iron it down. Then, using a sewing machine or needle, stitch the hem in place. Make sure to sew evenly and in a straight line.
Step 5: Try On
Try on the dress to ensure that it is the desired length. If it’s still too long, repeat steps 2-4 until it’s perfect.
FAQ
Can I shorten a maxi dress without sewing?
Yes, you can use fabric adhesive tape or hemming tape to shorten your maxi dress without sewing.
Can I shorten a maxi dress if it has a lining?
Yes, you can still shorten a maxi dress with a lining. Just make sure to hem the lining separately from the outer fabric.
Do I need a special needle to hem a maxi dress?
No, a regular needle should work just fine. However, if the fabric is particularly thick, you may want to use a heavy-duty needle.
Can I hem a maxi dress that has a slit?
Yes, you can hem a maxi dress with a slit. Just make sure to hem the slit separately and to leave enough room for movement.
How much should I shorten my maxi dress?
It’s up to personal preference, but a good rule of thumb is to shorten it to just above the ankle or mid-calf.
How much fabric should I leave for hemming?
Leave about 1 inch of fabric for hemming.
Can I hem a maxi dress myself if I’m not good at sewing?
Yes, with some patience and practice, anyone can hem a maxi dress.
Can I shorten a maxi dress that has a pattern?
Yes, you can still shorten a maxi dress with a pattern. Just make sure to match up the pattern when hemming.
Pros
Shortening your maxi dress can make it more comfortable to wear and can show off your shoes. It’s also a great way to give an old dress new life.
Tips
- Make sure to measure and pin evenly around the dress for a straight hemline.
- Use a fabric marker instead of pins to mark the new hemline if you’re worried about damaging the fabric.
- Iron the hem before sewing to make it easier to sew in a straight line.
- Practice hemming on a scrap piece of fabric before hemming your dress.
Summary
Shortening a maxi dress can be a simple process with the right tools and a little patience. Measure, pin, cut, hem, and try on until you achieve the desired length. Use fabric adhesive tape or hemming tape if you don’t want to sew. Don’t be afraid to practice on a scrap piece of fabric before hemming your dress. With these tips, your maxi dress will be the perfect length in no time.
