What you’ll need:
- A pair of bell-bottom pants
- A sewing machine
- Pins
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Thread (matching the color of your pants)
Step 1: Try on your pants
Put on your bell-bottom pants and assess the fit. Identify where you’d like them to be tapered. Keep in mind that tapering too much may alter the overall look and feel of the pants, so it’s best to start with minimal changes.
Step 2: Mark the taper line
Take off your pants and turn them inside out. Using a measuring tape and pins, mark a taper line from the outer seam of the pants to your desired width at the ankle. Make sure to mark both legs symmetrically for a balanced look.
Step 3: Pin the pants
Pinning is crucial to keep the fabric in place while you sew. Securely pin along the taper line on both pant legs, ensuring the fabric lays smoothly and symmetrically. Remove any excess fabric beyond the taper line.
Step 4: Sew the taper
With your sewing machine, carefully sew along the pinned taper line on both legs of the pants. Use a straight stitch or a stretch stitch, depending on the fabric of your pants. Sew all the way down until you reach the ankle. Remember to reinforce the start and end of the stitching by backstitching.
Step 5: Trim the excess fabric
After sewing, trim any excess fabric beyond the stitched line. Be careful not to cut too close to the stitching, as it may unravel over time. Leave a small seam allowance for better longevity.
Step 6: Iron the tapered seams
To give your newly tapered bell-bottoms a polished finish, carefully press the tapered seams with an iron. This will help flatten any wrinkles and make the seams crisp. Make sure to use the appropriate heat setting for your fabric to avoid any damage.
Step 7: Try on your tapered pants
Put on your tapered bell-bottom pants and admire the tailored fit. If needed, make any minor adjustments to ensure the taper is to your liking. Take note of any further alterations or styling you may want to complete your desired look.
Tapering your bell-bottom pants can give them a modern twist while still preserving their vintage appeal. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily achieve a customized fit that suits your personal style. Why not give it a try with an old pair or experiment with a new one? Get creative and have fun transforming your fashion wardrobe!