Ask Angie and Others: Shorten/Lengthen/Narrow/Leave Alone

Angie, thank you for weighing in on my fuchsia pants in the other threads!

I'm just going to put it out there as a question for you and others: there are 2 inches of length at the hem so they could be let down, and I suspect this would be an easier (and cheaper) alteration than shortening.

So the question is, would they work as "slouchy" trousers lengthened...given the amount I would wear them (not often, I assure you).

OR should I pay for the shortening or perhaps tapering, as Jonesy suggested? They are lined, so you're right - it's quite an extensive alteration.

OR should I simply leave them alone? The truth is, I probably wouldn't wear them much anyway! I will wear the top and jacket a whole lot more.

Hmmm. Now that I write this, I realize I can probably experiment by letting that hem down just to look at them - that is an easy fix if it doesn't look good.

Thanks again, everyone!!

Oh - and now that I'm on the subject, what IS the difference between the current slouch pants and the older versions? How can one tell if it is current or not? I have real problems figuring this out. Partially because pants have always been a difficult fit for me, period, perhaps. If I could get them on and move in them comfortably, I figured I was doing well, whatever the decade!!

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13 years ago

Vicki

(website)

Veteran

I haven't read Angie's post yet, Suz, but my first inclination was to go longer and lengthen, so thats my vote!

Angie

Fashion Stylist

Suz, these trousers were supposed to be a very tailored look in their '90s day actually - and not slouchy at all

Taking down the length is not a solution because they will still look dated (and ill-fitting). (Can't have our beautiful Suz looking dated and wearing ill-fitting trousers!)

I am with Jonesy. Shorten and taper towards the hems. Loving what you did in that second photo! Also, the width of the back seat must be addressed. Check the price of the alteration first.

Sylvia

Active Member

I like them much better longer and actually think that the trousers look good as they are. But if you like to alter, I would go for longer rather than shorter.

Chiming in again to say that 2 inches extra in length (and there is a side vent on the hem of these trousers as well), will not be enough to rectify the look of the trousers to my eye.

Warning: I am like a terrier with a bone when it comes to pant lengths. I don't let go of what I believe is right very easily on this topic. I am *extremely* hard to please with ankle length pants and the like (although not impossible to please!). Soooooooo take my opinion for what it is worth to you, Suz :).

I'm so glad Angie chimed in and mentioned the "back seat" as revamping older version slouchy pants is something I'm addressing right now. It's that baggy back side issue.

Anonymous

Considering the number of alterations needed, which boil down to a full reconstruction of the pants, I'm thinking you can let these go Suz. If CA prices for tailoring are anything like NYC prices, that is going to run you from $60 to $100, but I am no seamstress, therefore it is good advice to get a quote. You also need someone good, a tailor, as opposed to the basic mending done at the dry cleaners. I am glad Angie gave you the green light on the jacket and blouse, since the color looks so good on you.

Carole

I have to say I am perplexed and can offer you no advice, but will be anxious to see what you decided to do. I always find these posts fascinating, always learn so much about proportions and PPL. You look lovely in this color and hope you find a solution.

Staying tuned.....

modgrl

Can you do it like the pink DS2 pants from Angie's blog post from 2 wks ago?

http://experience.dsquared2.co.....fw/id/2823

ironkurtin

I'm going to be the minority - as I love late 90's fashion - and say these look wonderfully retro to my eye. I wouldn't touch them.

jayne

I am with IK and Sylvia...I think you can wear them as they are...but not if baggy in back!

Meredith1953

Shorter please! The color is lovely on you!

CocoLion

I recently had a dress from my mother tailored and it cost me $100 yet I am not satisfied with the results so feel it was a bit of a waste. I know I suggested tailoring/tapering/shortening earlier but now I just think, let them go. Maybe you could find a pair of pink of red jeans or tapered trousers for a bright tonal look? I think it would look cool with a not quite matching pair of pants with the toppers. Maybe even an orange hue to reflect colors of India...

I found a pair of bright green skinnies from F21 that were $16.99 and I LOVE them, plus they haven't faded. So I'm saying you might be able to find a cheaper solution than tailoring.

Suz

'm leaning towards just leaving them as is.

I love your idea of looking for a tonal pair of jeans, Denise. I'll try it.

And since I have other things to take to the seamstress anyway, I may bring them by and ASK what it would cost to narrow them down the sides a bit and shorten. But if it's going to cost a lot, I won't bother. I may never wear them, or I may be naughty and try them out some night...probably only a one time thing anyway. And whatever happens, it's okay - for $20 I still got a silk blazer and top that are fab!

I definitely need a slouch pant tutorial, though! Still trying to figure out the look. I checked out Jonesy's helpful pics on Sveta's thread and all I could discover is there are LOTS of ways to wear them...which makes me think I could look intentional if I wore these! If only I had the right attitude...

Here are some ideas:
http://www.forever21.com/Produ.....VariantID=

http://www.forever21.com/Produ.....VariantID=

rae

Hm, after hearing how complex the tailoring would have to be to slim the seat and legs... I'm also in Camp Let it Go UNLESS:

1) you are totally in love with the idea of a pink suit. If you'll be sad not to have the matching pants and you have a killer tailor, I won't stand in your way.

2) you can style the pants, as-is in a way that says arty-retro-throwback element. Maybe you could pair the pants with a plain T-shirt and high heels? Or try a long, boyfriend blazer to play up the retro feel?

Angela

I really like the colour of these, and I actually prefer the longer length (if all the pieces are worn together).

I love getting alterations done on pants because of my flat booty--not to say that you have one too! But these pants do look like they have extra room in the back. Last time I did that alteration it cost in the vicinity of $30. I did that to a pair of pants and the fit was great!

Jaime

I agree that the cost of tailoring might make it not worth it, but if you have a good tailor you can ask. I like the short length. The jacket and top make the whole purchase well worth it in any event.

krishnidoux

I would taper/alter them. I would not wear them as they are. They are too dated, and won't work with today's footwear and other toppers' lengths. But they look so good with the Mandarin top.

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