Dear Cheryl,
What are your guidelines for having pieces altered?
—Ruby, Naples
Generally speaking, shortening sleeve and hem lengths are easy fixes. Although small alterations, they can make an enormous difference to the look of the garment.
It’s always easier to reduce the size of a garment than to increase it. Seams can be taken in, but there are limits to where and how much they can be let out. If you’re between sizes, buy to fit your largest part (i.e. waist or hips) and have the smaller area taken in.
However much of a bargain, it’s unwise to buy anything several sizes bigger with the intent of having it altered to fit. Garments are sized proportionately, so a size 14 can’t be reduced to fit a size 8 without losing the balance of the piece. Ten pounds of weight equates to approximately one dress size, so if you’ve lost or gained significantly more than that, it might not possible for your garment to be altered successfully.
Finally, be realistic: If you’ve never really liked the outf t, or are in two minds about buying it in the store, no amount of alterations will make you love it.
Have a question for Cheryl? Send it to jfreihofer@gulfshorelife.com
WHAT TO WEAR: The Shelter for Abused Women & Children’s Annual Men’s Tailgate Party
There is a debate (and not one that we’re getting into here) about the appropriateness of wearing sports jerseys anywhere other than the sports field/arena. However, there’s an event in Naples that positively encourages it—the Gentle’men Against Domestic Violence Tailgate Party—held this year on Feb. 5 at Bay Colony Golf Club. Shelly Stayer started it a few years ago—inspired by how many men attended the ladies’ luncheon, she came up with the idea after the men requested a fundraising event of their own.
By all means, don your favorite sports jersey. If you’re attending with a group, why not kit yourselves out as members of one team? (How you decide or argue that one is up to you!)
If that’s not your game, a purple shirt will show your support for the Shelter, as will something in light green (both hues feature in their logo).
A black-and-white-striped polo shirt reminiscent of a referee’s shirt would also fit the bill and may be essential if your group can’t decide on a team ensemble.
