Tailoring Alterations

Tailoring alterations for skirts and dresses in Milan

A garment that doesn't sit perfectly doesn't mean it's wrong.


At Orlo e Via we alter skirts, dresses and women's formalwear to improve fit, proportions and comfort, respecting the original style and the fabric's characteristics.

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Skirts & Dresses — Orlo e Via
Key Alterations

Skirt Alterations

Taking In or Letting Out the Waist

We work the waistband and hips to correct a skirt that's too loose or too tight, keeping the original proportions and construction as much as possible.

Shortening a Skirt

We adjust the length considering the style, fabric, lining, pleats and slits.

Taking In the Hips

We reduce excess volume by working the seams best suited to the garment's construction.

Altering or Repairing the Slit

We can shorten, close, restore or modify the slit when the garment's structure allows it.

Zip Replacement

We repair or replace side and back zips, choosing a solution consistent with the garment.

Dress & Women's Formalwear Alterations

Shortening a Dress

We work on short, midi, long, lined, formal and occasion dresses. The new length is set on the garment as worn.

Taking In the Waist and Hips

We reduce volume at the most suitable points, without unnecessarily altering the original line.

Altering the Bodice

When the construction allows it, we work the bust, waist and back to improve the fit.

Altering the Straps

Correcting strap length can reposition the neckline, bodice and fit of the upper part.

Altering the Sleeves

We can correct the length or width depending on the dress's structure.

Altering the Neckline

Some models allow the neckline to be corrected or redesigned; feasibility is assessed directly on the garment.

Occasion Wear

A dress for a wedding, ceremony or important event needs particular attention to proportions. We can work on length, waist, hips, bodice, straps, sleeves, neckline and lining. For garments with lace, embroidery, appliqués or complex structures we carry out a preliminary assessment.

Before and After

Same garment, new fit.

BeforeAfter
Dress Loose at the Waist — Orlo e Via

Dress Loose at the Waist

BeforeAn undefined line and excess fabric at the hips.
AfterA more defined waist and a more balanced line.
BeforeAfter
Dress Too Long — Orlo e Via

Dress Too Long

BeforeLength out of proportion with the wearer.
AfterHem repositioned to the length chosen at the fitting.
BeforeAfter
Straps Too Long — Orlo e Via

Straps Too Long

BeforeBodice and neckline sitting too low.
AfterStraps corrected and the upper part repositioned.
BeforeAfter
Skirt Loose at the Waist — Orlo e Via

Skirt Loose at the Waist

BeforeA loose waistband and excess volume.
AfterA correct waist and a cleaner line.

Not Sure Which Alteration You Need?

Bring your skirt or dress to Orlo e Via and try it on in the workshop: we'll assess where to work, how much to alter and what result is realistically achievable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases yes. Feasibility and the type of alteration depend on the garment's construction, seams and fabric.

It depends on how much fabric is available inside the seams. The garment must be examined before determining how much it can be let out.

Yes. The length is usually set during the fitting, also considering the shoes it will be worn with.

Yes. Structured dresses or those with particular finishes need a preliminary assessment.

Yes, but the alteration may require working on both the outer fabric and the lining.

It depends on the construction and the position of the decorations. We assess the garment before determining what work is possible.
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