The Denim Fit Guide: Alterations You Can and Should Do for Your Jeans
Denim is a wardrobe staple, but finding the perfect pair of jeans off the rack can feel like a mission impossible. Waist too loose? Legs too long? Gaping at the back? We've all been there. The good news? Jeans are one of the most customisable garments — and with the right garment alterations, that “almost perfect” pair can become your absolute favorite.
Think your jeans can’t be tailored? Think again. Whether it's the waist that gaps, the legs that drag, or a shape that just isn’t quite right — denim can be expertly altered to fit you like a glove. In this guide, we break down what’s actually possible with jean alterations, and how a few key adjustments can turn an “okay” pair into your absolute favourite.
Most jeans are made to fit everyone — which means they fit no one perfectly. Our latest piece will walk you through the most effective alterations for jeans, from waist reshaping to leg tapering, and everything in between. Discover how we can elevate your everyday denim into a completely custom fit.
Most people think denim is difficult — even impossible — to alter. But with the right hands, we can transform your jeans with waist adjustments, precision hems, strategic tapering, and even rise reshaping. Our guide breaks it all down so you can shop smarter, wear longer, and feel amazing in every pair.
Interested? Keep reading for our top 5 tips for denim care! You're welcome.
1. Hemming the Length
Why: Most jeans are made with a standard inseam that doesn’t work for everyone. Whether you want a clean ankle cut, a cropped summer look, or just need to remove excess fabric bunching at the bottom, hemming is the #1 alteration for denim.
Options:
Original hem (Euro hem): Keeps the original distressed or faded hem for a seamless finish.
Clean hem: Straightforward fold-and-stitch for a polished, minimal look.
Pro Tip: Always wash your jeans first before hemming — denim can shrink!
2. Taking in the Waist
Why: It’s common for jeans to fit the hips or thighs well but gap at the waist, especially with curvier body types. A professional tailor look after your garment alterations.
And can take in the waistband to hug your waist just right — no belt needed.
Good For:
High-rise jeans
Stretch denim
Vintage Levi’s with rigid cotton
3. Tapering the Leg
Why: Straight-leg or bootcut jeans that feel too loose below the knee can be tailored to a more flattering slim or skinny fit. Great for updating older denim to suit your current style.
Options:
Tapering from the knee down
Tapering from the thigh for an overall slimmer silhouette
Note: Tapering too much can affect comfort and mobility, so it’s all about balance.
4. Taking in the Seat and Thighs
Why: A saggy seat or baggy thighs can ruin the shape of your jeans. This alteration tailors the back rise and leg width for a closer fit that still allows for movement.
Best Done When:
You’ve lost weight or your jeans stretch out over time.
The jeans never fitted just right when you purchased them.
Body type: you're smaller in the waist, curvy hips and slim thighs.
5. Adding or Replacing Denim Panels
Why: If your jeans are too tight or you want to give them new life with a style update, adding denim panels or gussets at the sides or inner thighs can boost both comfort and uniqueness.
Bonus: Great for maternity transitions or post-op recovery where movement or waist flexibility is needed. Gym enthusiasts who like to squat and sporty active lifestyles.
6. Repairing Rips & Reinforcing Stress Points
Why: Don’t throw out your favorite jeans just because they’ve torn — strategic patching, darning, and reinforcement can extend their life significantly while adding character.
Areas to Reinforce:
Inner thigh
Crotch seams
Back pockets
Creative Option: Visible mending with contrast thread or sashiko stitching for a fashion-forward, eco-conscious look.
7. Raising or Lowering the Rise
Why: Less common but totally doable for specialty denim — adjusting the rise can make high-rise jeans feel less restrictive or turn mid-rise jeans into a more on-trend high waist.
Note: This is a more complex alteration and may not be cost-effective for all jeans, but can be a game-changer for designer denim you love.
8. Converting Jeans into Shorts or Cropped Styles
Why: If your jeans are worn at the knees or outdated in cut, converting them into stylish shorts, culottes, or raw-edge crops can give them a second life — and reduce textile waste.
Style Ideas:
Frayed hem shorts (always add a single safety stitch at the length you want fraying depth, this will also prevent any rips when bending)
Rolled cuff crops
Bermuda or knee-length cuts
Not all denim needs to be tossed when it stops fitting right. Garment alterations are the sustainable, smart, and stylish way to get the most out of your jeans. Whether you need small tweaks or big transformations, professional tailoring can make all the difference — and you’ll never settle for “almost right” again.
Bonus - Here are 5 essential tips for denim care to keep your jeans looking great and lasting longer:
1. Wash Less, Spot Clean More
Denim doesn’t need frequent washing. Over-washing fades the colour and breaks down the fibres. Instead, spot clean stains and only wash when they truly need it — usually after 4–6 wears (or more, depending on use). Even hanging in the sun inside out is a great way to eliminate odour.
2. Wash Inside Out in Cold Water
Always turn your jeans inside out before washing to protect the outer dye and reduce fading. Use cold water and a gentle, denim-safe detergent to preserve the fabric’s integrity and colour.
3. Avoid the Dryer – Air Dry Instead
Heat is denim’s worst enemy. Skip the tumble dryer to prevent shrinkage and maintain shape. Hang your jeans to air dry flat or on a line — preferably out of direct sunlight to avoid bleaching especially in Australian sun.
4. Skip the Iron – Steam or Smooth Instead
Denim doesn’t usually need ironing. If needed, use a steamer or smooth out wrinkles by hanging them in the bathroom during a hot shower. If ironing is necessary, do it inside out on low heat. Denim is cotton which is plant based and will naturally roll out any light creases from body heat when worn.
5. Store Them Properly
Fold your jeans neatly or hang them by the waistband. Avoid cramming them in a drawer, which can cause creasing and unnecessary stretching over time. Give them space to breathe — just like your other wardrobe staples.
Don't give up on your denim — level it up. From minor waist nips to creative panel inserts, garment alterations let you make the most of what you already own. With skilled hands and an eye for detail, your jeans can go from forgotten to favourite in just a few smart steps.
