belt is too small

How to Make Jeans Waist Smaller – 5 Easy Ways

Jeans are a wardrobe staple for most people, but finding the right fit can be a challenge. If you’ve recently lost weight or bought a pair of jeans that are too big around the waist, don’t worry -with some DIY or sewing methods and techniques, you can learn how to make jeans waist smaller.

Method 1: Using a Sewing Machine to Alter Waistband

One of the easiest and most effective ways to make your jeans waist smaller is by using a sewing machine. This method involves removing the waistband and taking in the fabric along the back seam. We’ll walk you through the steps to ensure a perfect alteration.

  • Materials needed: Sewing machine, matching thread, sewing pins, scissors, measuring tape, fabric chalk or tailor’s pencil, seam ripper, iron, and ironing board.
  • Try on the jeans to determine how much smaller you want the waistband to be. Pinch the excess fabric and mark the measurements with sewing pins.
  • Lay the jeans flat on a clean surface and measure the amount to be taken in at each side of the waistband. Mark these measurements with fabric chalk or tailor’s pencil.
  • Carefully remove the stitching along the waistband at the back and sides using a seam ripper.
  • Fold the excess fabric on each side inward, creating small pleats or darts at the marked points. Pin the folds in place.
  • Try on the jeans again to ensure the fit is now tighter and comfortable. Make any adjustments if necessary.
  • Using a sewing machine, stitch along the pinned folds to create permanent darts. Backstitch at the beginning and end of each dart to secure the stitches.
  • Trim any excess fabric beyond the dart stitching, leaving a small seam allowance.
  • Fold the waistband back to its original position and press it flat with an iron.
  • Stitch the waistband back together using your sewing machine, using a thread color that matches the original stitching.
  • Try on the jeans to ensure the waistband alteration has resulted in the desired fit. Make any final adjustments if needed.

Method 2: Taking in the Side Seams

If you don’t have access to a sewing machine or prefer not to use one, taking in the side seams of your jeans is another option. This method involves creating a new seam along each side of the jeans, which will effectively reduce the size of the waistband without affecting the overall fit of the jeans.

  • Try on the jeans to determine if the waistband fits comfortably, but the hips and thighs are too loose.
  • Turn the jeans inside out and lay them flat on a clean surface.
  • Pin along the side seams to mark how much you want to take in on each side.
  • Use a seam ripper to carefully remove the stitches on the marked section of the side seams.
  • Fold the excess fabric inward along the side seams and pin it in place to create a new seam line.
  • Try on the jeans again to ensure the fit is now improved. Make any adjustments if needed.
  • Using a sewing machine, stitch along the pinned folds to create the new side seams. Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches.
  • Trim any excess fabric beyond the new seam line, leaving a small seam allowance.
  • Press the side seams with an iron to create a neat finish.
  • Try on the jeans to ensure the waist alteration has resulted in the desired fit. Make any final adjustments if needed.

Method 3: Using a Belt

If you’re looking for a quick fix, using a belt is an easy way to cinch your jeans at the waist. However, it’s important to choose the right type of belt and wear it correctly to avoid any discomfort or bulging around the waistline.

  • Choose a belt that complements the style and color of your jeans.
  • Put on the jeans and adjust them to your desired fit around the waist.
  • Wrap the belt around your waist, feeding it through the belt loops of the jeans.
  • Fasten the belt to tighten it around your waist, cinching the excess fabric and creating a smaller waistline.
  • Adjust the belt as needed to achieve a comfortable and flattering fit.
  • This method is a quick and temporary solution, ideal for situations where you want to wear the jeans tighter without permanent alterations.

Method 4: Adding Elastic

Another option for making your jeans waist smaller is adding elastic to the back waistband. This method is ideal for those who want a more comfortable fit without sacrificing style.

  • Measure your waist size and cut the elastic band to this measurement.
  • Turn the jeans inside out and lay them flat on a clean surface.
  • Pin the elastic band along the inside of the waistband at the back and sides of the jeans.
  • Try on the jeans to ensure the elastic provides a comfortable and snug fit around your waist.
  • Using a sewing machine, stitch the elastic in place along the waistband, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
  • Trim any excess elastic and threads.
  • Press the waistband with an iron to create a smooth finish.
  • The added elastic allows the waistband to stretch and accommodate your waist size, making it a flexible and practical alteration.

Method 5: Professional Alterations

If you’re not confident in your sewing skills or simply don’t have the time to DIY, taking your jeans to a professional tailor is always an option. They can help you achieve the perfect fit and ensure that your jeans look and feel great.

  • Research local tailors or alteration shops with a good reputation for jeans alterations.
  • Take your jeans to the selected professional and explain the specific alterations you want for the waistband.
  • The tailor will measure your waist and discuss the alterations required to achieve your desired fit.
  • Depending on the alterations needed, the tailor may take in the waistband using sewing techniques or add darts and pleats to customize the fit.
  • The professional alterations ensure precise adjustments, maintaining the overall balance and look of the jeans.
  • Once the alterations are complete, try on the jeans at the tailor’s shop to ensure a perfect fit.
  • Pay attention to any recommendations provided by the tailor for proper care and maintenance of the altered jeans.

Conclusion

No matter which method you choose, making your jeans waist smaller is a simple process that can greatly improve the fit and comfort of your favorite pair of jeans. Try out these methods and see which works best for you!

FASHION TRENDS THAT YOU DIDN’T REALIZE MIGHT BE AGING YOU

Dressing to feel youthful is a powerful tonic to banish the blues and remain visible, but there are pitfalls to avoid. No one wants to look like mutton dressed as lamb, but sticking to an antiquated rule will also make us look older than we are. Below you’ll find what I consider to be unnecessarily aging:

FORGETTING TO BELT

No matter your age or body shape, showcasing your figure is always in style. By making smart choices and selecting pieces that highlight your waistline and accentuate your shape, you can enhance your natural beauty. Opting for well-fitted, flattering garments that celebrate your figure is rarely a mistake and can help you maintain a confident, stylish look.

BIG HAIRDOS ARE A DO NOT

You might ask, “But isn’t volume trendy?” Yes, it is, but with a caveat. Adding volume to your hair can indeed look beautiful and youthful, but there’s a fine line between trendy and overdone. Hairdressers worldwide note that many mature clients believe they need a heavy, elaborate hairstyle to stay fashionable. However, this approach often backfires.

LONG, FLOOR LENGTH SKIRTS

It’s true that overly long clothing or hair often doesn’t flatter as much as we hope. While some women opt for longer hemlines as they age, it’s important to choose carefully. Floor-length skirts, for example, can obscure your figure and may not highlight your natural curves. A shorter skirt often offers a more flattering silhouette and helps showcase your shape beautifully.

SUPER LONG HAIR

This one might not be surprising. Many women choose to cut their hair shorter as they age, and there’s a solid reason for it. Long hair can sometimes make a woman look older than she is. Hairstylists often suggest trimming your hair every few months to maintain its health and vitality.

WEARING THE SAME HAIRSTYLE FOR YEARS

While some women love changing their hairstyles frequently, others find a hairstyle they love and stick with it for years or even decades. If you’ve found a look that works well for you and makes you feel great, there’s no need to constantly change it—sometimes, sticking with what works is the best choice.

MATCHING LIPSTICK TO YOUR OUTFIT

This one is a bit debatable, but it’s important to consider carefully. While the makeup community often advises matching lipstick to your outfit, there are specific tricks to keep in mind—and some combinations to avoid. For instance, pairing a bright red sweater with matching bright red lipstick might seem like a good idea, but it often doesn’t work as well as it seems.

HEAD-TO-TOE PASTELS

It’s tempting to embrace the pastel trend from head to toe, and it has been popular for a while. However, wearing an entire outfit in monochromatic pastels might not always be the best choice, especially if you’re looking to avoid a more aged appearance. Monochrome pastel outfits can sometimes make lighter-skinned individuals appear washed out and may not be the most flattering.

JEGGINGS ARE A NO-NO

Jeggings are fantastic—they’re comfortable, versatile, and can be quite trendy. However, despite their comfort compared to jeans, it’s important to remember that they’re not quite the same. Jeans are typically crafted to enhance body shape in specific ways, whereas jeggings might not always offer the most flattering fit.

REALLY DARK LIPSTICK

There are times when an edgy, dark lipstick is perfect—whether it’s for the cold season or just a mood for something bold. However, darker shades can sometimes make you look unintentionally older. If you love the dramatic look, consider balancing it with lighter or brighter makeup elements to keep a youthful appearance.

LARGE AND GAUDY JEWELRY IS TOO MUCH

While a beautiful, delicate statement necklace can be flattering, there’s a fine line to walk in the fashion world. Oversized, chunky necklaces might not always be as trendy as we’d like to think, especially when they dominate an entire outfit. They can easily tip an outfit from stylish to tacky. So, before adding a big necklace, it’s worth reconsidering how it will fit with the rest of your look.

TOO MUCH FAKE TAN

We understand that a tan can give a carefree, youthful appearance, but it’s important to remember that tanning accelerates skin aging. Sun exposure can worsen wrinkles and fine lines. Many people turn to fake tans as an alternative, but even they come with their own set of issues. It’s worth considering healthier ways to achieve a radiant look without compromising skin health.

POWDERY MAKEUP THAT GETS ALL CAKED UP

Makeup can be fantastic—it’s fun, often affordable, and great for enhancing our features. However, as we age, some women may find it challenging to go without makeup, leading to the use of heavy or cakey products. It’s important to find a balance with makeup that enhances rather than masks, focusing on lighter formulas and techniques that complement your natural beauty.

OVERLY-DONE EYEBROWS

One key lesson from the past is that over-plucked eyebrows should remain a ’90s and early 2000s trend. Back then, thin, oddly shaped brows were popular, but today’s fashion embraces a more natural look. It’s best to aim for slightly fuller brows that blend naturally with your face and allow your eyebrow hair to grow out.

OVER-COVERING YOUR NECK

The neck can become a tricky area as we age, often making us self-conscious and leading us to cover it up frequently. However, covering it too much might sometimes draw more attention to it or make the issue more noticeable. Instead, consider styles that flatter and complement the neck area without drawing excessive attention

MATCHY-MATCHY JEWELRY

Fashion is incredibly versatile, which can sometimes make it hard to discern what’s still in style and what might be overdone. As Coco Chanel famously advised, before heading out, it’s wise to pause, look in the mirror, and remove one accessory or element. This helps ensure your look remains stylish and refined without being overwhelming.

THE JERSEY DRESS TREND

Another outdated trend is the jersey dress. While its comfort is understandable, it’s a style that can quickly age your look. The typical cotton fabric tends to cling to every body part, including those you might prefer to keep under wraps. Choosing alternatives that offer both comfort and a more flattering fit can help maintain a youthful appearance.

FLORAL PATTERNS ARE OUT

Floral patterns can certainly create a dreamy and romantic style, but it’s important to be mindful of how you wear them. For example, floral outfits found at many department stores can sometimes look outdated and may inadvertently age you. Opting for modern floral designs or incorporating floral patterns in a more contemporary way can keep your look fresh and stylish.

SMALL, STIFF HANDBAGS

Selecting the right bag can beautifully complement an outfit, but it’s crucial to understand the various types and know which ones to avoid. Some bags might not suit your style or body type and could detract from your overall look. Knowing which styles enhance your outfit and which might not be as flattering can make a big difference in achieving a polished, fashionable appearance.

HUGE AND BAGGY OUTFITS

Aging can indeed come with changes in how we dress, often leading to a preference for baggier outfits. While oversized clothing can be fashionable, choosing extremely large garments might sometimes make you appear older than you are. Opting for well-fitted, tailored pieces that offer comfort without excessive volume can help maintain a youthful and stylish appearance.

CONSTANTLY WEARING LONG SLEEVES

As we age, various parts of our body, including the underarm area, may become a bit floppier, which can understandably make us self-conscious. While this is a natural part of aging, it’s common for people to start covering these areas more. Instead of focusing solely on covering up, consider styles that offer comfort and confidence while also highlighting your best features.

WATER PANTS AND CAPRIS

High water pants have always been a bit of a fashion enigma. While they offer comfort and convenience, their style often leaves much to be desired. However, as the weather warms up and beach outings become more frequent, many people still opt for capris or high water pants. If you choose to wear them, pairing them with more stylish or well-fitted pieces can help balance the look and keep it fresh.

TAN, SHINY PANTYHOSE

Tights can be a hit or miss with an outfit. While they used to be seen as a way to give the skin a younger appearance, today, they might not always have the same effect. Choosing the right pair of tights, in terms of color, texture, and fit, can either complement or detract from your overall look, so it’s important to select them thoughtfully.

DARK, HEAVY EYELINER

Eyeliner trends have evolved significantly over the years. While dark eyeliner was once popular, it can sometimes appear heavy and age your look. Opting for lighter, more subtle eyeliner techniques can create a fresher, more youthful appearance.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, many fashion trends that are popular today might unintentionally age you more than you realize. From oversized garments and heavy makeup to outdated hairstyles and ill-fitting accessories, these choices can often have the opposite effect of what we intend. To maintain a youthful and stylish appearance, it’s crucial to stay informed about how different trends impact your look. Opt for modern, well-fitted pieces and subtle enhancements that complement your natural features, and don’t be afraid to adapt trends to suit your personal style.