How to Alter Anarkali Salwar: A Step-by-Step Guide
Anarkali salwar suits have been a staple in the Indian fashion industry for decades, known for their elegant and flowing designs. However, with changing body shapes and personal preferences, it’s not uncommon to find yourself in need of a tailor to alter your favorite anarkali salwar suit. In this article, we will walk you through a step-by-step guide on how to alter anarkali salwar, ensuring that you can achieve the perfect fit without the help of a professional.
Step 1: Take Accurate Measurements
Before you begin the alteration process, it’s crucial to take accurate measurements of your body. Use a measuring tape to measure the following areas:
– Bust: Measure around the fullest part of your bust, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
– Waist: Measure around the narrowest part of your waist.
– Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
– Length: Measure from the top of your shoulder to where you want the hem of the suit to fall.
Make sure to write down these measurements for reference.
Step 2: Choose the Right Fabric
Select a fabric that is similar in weight and texture to your original anarkali salwar suit. This will ensure that the alterations are seamless and that the suit retains its original look and feel.
Step 3: Remove the Lining
If your anarkali salwar suit has a lining, remove it carefully to work on the outer fabric. This will make it easier to make adjustments without damaging the lining.
Step 4: Adjust the Bust
If the bust area is too tight, you can add width by taking in the side seams. To do this, fold the fabric in half and mark the new seam line. Repeat this process on the other side. Once you have the new seam lines, sew the side seams together, ensuring that the fabric is even and smooth.
If the bust area is too loose, you can take in the side seams by removing a small amount of fabric from the side seams. Repeat the process as described above, but in reverse.
Step 5: Adjust the Waist
To adjust the waist, you can either take in the side seams or add width by inserting a waistband. If you’re taking in the side seams, mark the new seam line and sew as described in Step 4. If you’re adding a waistband, measure the waist circumference and cut a strip of fabric to the desired width. Sew the waistband to the suit, ensuring that it’s even and smooth.
Step 6: Adjust the Hips
Similar to the bust, if the hips are too tight, take in the side seams. If they’re too loose, add width by inserting a hip panel. Measure the hip circumference and cut a panel of fabric to the desired width. Sew the panel to the suit, ensuring that it’s even and smooth.
Step 7: Adjust the Length
To adjust the length, measure from the top of your shoulder to where you want the hem to fall. Mark the new hem line and sew the hem. If you prefer a gathered hem, gather the fabric as desired and sew the hem.
Step 8: Reattach the Lining
Once all the alterations are complete, reattach the lining to the suit. Make sure that the lining is even and smooth, and that it matches the original design.
Congratulations! You have successfully altered your anarkali salwar suit. With these simple steps, you can now enjoy a perfectly fitting suit that reflects your personal style.
