Hemming chiffon pleats: possible?

Zaeobi

Is it possible to hem a chiffon pleated maxi skirt with a full lining? They're accordion pleats (same width all the way down) but the lining is completely flat.

Photos for reference:
https://youlookfab.com/upload/....._image.jpg and
https://youlookfab.com/upload/....._image.jpg

These were originally posted here with my animal/ safari print shirt, which I have since donated - but for some reason, I am still holding onto this skirt (even though I've never worn it out, because of the length). Is it salvageable (hemmable), or should I just accept that I'll probably never heels enough again to warrant keeping it in my closet, lol?

2 years ago

Dressing

13 replies

Latest reply was from Stagiaire Fash

lozz_oz

Veteran

I think the way to shorten pleated skirts is at the waist and not the hem. Is it an elastic or waistband and zipper finish?

2 years ago

Joy

Veteran

I will be watching this thread as I’ve wondered the same thing recently.

2 years ago

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

I hope so, because that’s a great skirt. Do you have a local tailor?

2 years ago

Zaeobi

(website)

Veteran

@lozz_oz Ahh, I see - that makes more sense. It's a solid waistband with a hidden zipper back.

@StagiareFash Not yet, but I'd like to try one out with this (not sure I should attempt it myself with my beginner skills). Not sure how complex of a task it would be with the lining, though...

2 years ago

Tanya

Veteran

I do not know the answer, but, like Joy, will be watching this thread as I have been wondering the same.

2 years ago

Anonymous

It's worth checking! You probably have access to good tailors.

2 years ago

RobinF

Veteran

I don't know why it couldn't be hemmed. The pleats would have to be re-ironed but that shouldn't be a problem.

2 years ago

Zaeobi

(website)

Veteran

Hmm, so consensus seems to be to take them to a tailor to try? Maybe I should rummage through my 'alterations' pile that I've been putting off, to make it worth my time with multiple garments

2 years ago

cat2

Veteran

Yes, it can be hemmed. I always have to have evening wear substantially hemmed — pieces cut for a 5’8” person wearing heels are laughably long on me — and my tailor will cheerily tackle multiple layers.

2 years ago

Ginger

Veteran

Yes, it can be re-hemmed. It already has a hem, so the technique can be done again. Without seeing it I am not sure what it is, but if it's an overlock stitch, a professional with the right machine should be able to do it.

2 years ago

Firecracker (Sharan)

Veteran

I would shorten from the top. As Ginger says, it should be possible to re-create the hem treatment. But you'd have to re-press those pleats at the hem all the way around, and that's where the difficulty would be for me. If the pressing isn't necessary, then hemming from the bottom would be easiest. The tailor should be able to advise you.

2 years ago

Zaeobi

(website)

Veteran

Alright, we have another T8 (typhoon) warning here right now (so no going anywhere lol) but will see what I can do later...

2 years ago

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Stay safe, Zaeobi!

2 years ago

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