How to alter bargain clothes

Today I found a great series on altering clothes over at Hot Off the Sale Rack, and thought I’d pass on my favourite tips.

Part One is about deciding whether it’s worth buying something that’s too big and tailoring it down a size. Tip: A-line skirts are relatively easy to alter.

Part Two and Part Three are about shortening straps on dresses (which would work equally well for tops). Tip: shorten them where they meet the back of the garment so your work’s not as noticeable.

Part Four covers repairs your bargains might need, like mending small tears and removing stains. Tips: tears and holes are easier to fix if they’re on a seam; not so much if they’re in the middle of the garment, and

Small, complementary stains that look food- or makeup-based have the greatest likelihood of getting washed off. Beyond that, tough luck.