How to Shorten a Herve Leger Skirt or Dress
Usually, I don't like altering a Herve Leger dress. But, when alterations are absolutely needed, simple and reversible alterations are the way to go. If desired, the dress can be reverted back to its original design. Here's a simple tutorial on how to shorten a Herve Leger skirt or dress.
This how-to applies to most Herve Leger bandage dresses and skirts. However, it cannot be used on dresses with intricate designs at the bottom, flared bottoms, or any items with hardware located at the bottom.
In my opinion, this solution is better than taking it to a tailor and having fabric removed. People oftentimes change their minds about how short they want a dress to be. Allowing the alteration to be reversible also makes the dress more versatile.
All you have to do to make your Herve Leger dress shorter is to:
1. Turn it inside out.
2. Fold the amount that you want to shorten.
3. Using thread in the same color as your dress, sew a few points down. Don't do tight stitches. A couple loose stitches at each point will do. When sewing make sure that the thread does not show on the outside of the dress. For areas where there is not excess fabric to support the thread (example: not near zipper or side seams), only run the thread partway through the top layer of the dress.
It really is that easy! And, it's faster than taking trips to the seamstress!
If you need to undo the alteration, simply cut the loose stitches you made. Make sure that you do not cut the dress. If the dress has been altered for a very long time, you may need to press a damp cloth over the crease to eliminate any lines created by folding.