I recently accepted a part time position as "stylist" for the Ann Taylor store in Oakbrook. Wish I had a quarter for every client I see trying on one pair of pants after another and repeatedly rejecting a close, but not perfect fit! I want to scream! Please stop shopping and get thee to a good tailor!
But I simply smile and say, "An easy fix would be to have a tailor take in the waist just a bit, don't you think?"
Truth be told, odds are about a million to one that you will find a pair of pants that fit you perfectly off the rack. (Your chances of winning the lottery are probably better!)
Along with special education teachers and hospital nurses, good tailors are among God's greatest gifts. And if you need a referral, just ask around town. Like cream, the good ones always rise to the top and are well known throughout their local area.
So, why not try this approach next time you shop?
If the cut, rise and shape of those pants are right for you [curvy or slim, full or skinny, short or long], go with it and buy them. Next? Drop them off at the tailor on your way home. Just a few short days later, while you're out doing your usual errands, you can quickly pick them up and voila! Your black pants now look and feel [dare I say it?] PERFECT.
File under: Sad But True Story:
My client, Miss X, recently admitted that she currently has 24 pairs of black pants in her closet.
Too many, she asked?
Why, yes, said I. [Erstwhile thinking, are you kidding me?]
My closet shows 3: one pair for spring and summer, one pair of heavy wool pants for winter, and another pair that are part of my black suit. Yup. That's it. All three, however, were tailored to fit.
As a rule, I always need my pants altered in one way or another. With the possible exception of that one magical moment . . . please indulge me as I savor the memory . . . when I bought the pants. . .
They were high end quality; beautiful fabric, cut and color. And they were on sale! I could easily picture the numerous ways I would style them. I decided I would pay whatever it cost to have them tailored, no matter how extensive the alterations. [At that sale price, why not?] When I tried them on, I closed my eyes, I held my breath and I prayed.
Lo and behold, not only were they great looking, they fit perfectly. They skimmed, not hugged, my body. The waist was comfortable, the hips just right, even the length was exactly what I needed.
It was a miracle.
Never did I have this experience before, haven't had it since, and chances are, I will never have it again. And that's ok. I have a great tailor.
Do you?
Best regards,
Nancy
PS. As Halloween approaches, do you know what currently lurks in your closet? This is the perfect time of year to take a good look. And if you need some help deciding what stays, what goes and what can be salvaged with some strategic tailoring?
Call me. I would love to help. It won't be scary and it will be fun!
