What To Do If It Doesn’t Fit: Simple DIY Tricks To Resize Your Thrift Shop Finds

Thrift shopping is always an adventure. When you walk into a store, you never know what you will come out with! Sometimes you hit a jackpot, and everything seems to fit perfectly. But what about the times when items don’t fit? Maybe a shirt is too baggy, jeans are too short, or a tank top is too tight. Have no fear! D.I.Y resizing is here. These six tricks can help you transform the vintage items that  aren’t flattering into your favorite new pieces.

1. Loose-Fitting Button-Up Into Sleeveless Tank

If you love sleeveless tops, this trick might be for you! Turn any long sleeve baggy blouse into a cute sleeveless button up. The finished product can be tucked in for a fitted look. The added bow gives the finished design a ’40s look.

2. Too-Tight Tank Top Into Lacey Tee

This trick works really well for tank tops that are long enough, but too tight to be flattering. Sure, you might be able to squeeze into it, but does it look good? With a bit of lace, the top can flow more and flatter your figure. The lacy sleeves of this design are a fun feminine touch.

3. Short Jeans Into Cut-Offs

This is such a simple D.I.Y. fix for pants that are too short that it almost doesn’t count as a “trick”. But, it is so useful that I would be remiss if I did not mention it! When jeans are too long you can always hem them. It can be a bit harder to find use for a pair of jeans that are too short! What about making them into cut-offs? I love the baggy fit of the jeans above.

4. Baggy Dress To Dress With A Fitted Waistline

If you fall in love with a baggy dress, but it looks like a potato sack when you put it on, consider tailoring it a bit. Cut off the sleeves or chop off the bottom six inches. Hem all of the edges, and then see what you think! Add a belt to cinch in the waist.

5. Cropped Jean Jacket To Pretty Cover-Up

Cropped jean jackets have their time and place. But if you really want a longer look, you can resize to give you the coverage that you desire. Start adding lace, and see where it takes you! Sew a few pearls around the neckline, or pair with a pearl necklace or chunky pearl bracelet.

6. Men’s Sweatshirt to Chic Cardigan

I just love this idea! With a few cuts, you can have a cute sweatshirt cardigan! Find a soft, thin men’s sweatshirt, and follow the steps in the link above. I love that there is no sewing involved! You could use this technique to create a cardigan look out of many kinds of tops. Think about making a little lace jacket, a tee shirt shrug, or a soft satin wrap-around. The possibilities are endless!

As you search through thrift shops for your new favorite clothing items, don’t discount the pieces that aren’t fitting correctly. With a few cuts in the right places and a seam here and there, you can have a new item that fits just right. Do you have a favorite resizing trick? Leave a comment below to share!