Sustainable Style: Alterations & Repairs

Written By Lilah Babiak

At Benzinger’s Clothing Care, we believe every great piece of clothing deserves a second chance. Whether it’s a hem that’s too long, a zipper that won’t budge, or a beloved jacket that’s seen better days, clothing alterations and repairs can bring new life to your wardrobe.

Alterations are more than just quick fixes; they’re about ensuring your favorite outfits fit and function perfectly. A tailored fit can elevate your confidence, while a well-repaired garment extends the life of your investment. Instead of replacing damaged or ill-fitting items, alterations and repairs offer a sustainable and cost-effective solution.

Expert Alterations and Repair Services

At Benzinger’s, our skilled team handles a variety of clothing alterations with precision and care. Here are some of the services we provide:

  • Shortening and Lengthening: From pants and shorts to skirts and dresses, we ensure your outfits fit perfectly.

  • Waist Adjustments: We can take waists in or out for a more flattering and comfortable fit.

  • Zipper Repairs and Replacements: Whether it’s a stuck zipper or a broken pull, we’ve got you covered.

  • Button and Snap Replacement: We’ll replace missing or damaged buttons and snaps, restoring your garment’s functionality and style.

  • Patch Additions: Need a patch on clothing? We can repair or customize your garments for a unique touch.

  • Custom Garment Alterations: Want to make your clothing truly one of a kind? We offer customization services to make your wardrobe uniquely yours.

  • Household Alterations: We also alter curtains and drapes, ensuring they’re perfectly sized for your windows.

 

How Alterations Support Sustainability

  • Reduce Clothing Waste
    The fast fashion industry generates millions of tons of textile waste every year. By choosing to alter and repair your clothes instead of throwing them away, you’re keeping garments out of landfills and oceans, and reducing your contribution to this global issue.

  • Make the Most of Quality Materials
    Many garments, especially high-quality ones, have plenty of life left in them even after they’ve stopped fitting perfectly. Alterations ensure these items remain wearable, maximizing the use of the resources that went into making them.

  • Lower Your Carbon Footprint
    The production of new clothing involves significant energy, water, and chemical use. By extending the lifespan of your current wardrobe through alterations, you’re minimizing the environmental impact associated with new purchases.

  • Encourage Slow Fashion
    Alterations are a cornerstone of the slow fashion movement, which prioritizes mindful consumption and long-lasting clothing over disposable trends. Choosing to repair and tailor your clothes aligns with a more thoughtful, sustainable approach to fashion.

Simple Steps to Incorporate Alterations into Your Routine

  • Evaluate Your Wardrobe: Look for items you no longer wear because they don’t fit or need small repairs. These are perfect candidates for alterations.

  • Prioritize Versatility: Focus on altering timeless pieces that can be worn across multiple seasons and occasions.

  • Think Ahead: If you’re investing in a new garment, consider how it might be tailored down the line to adapt to your needs

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Alterations

  • Are alterations and tailoring the same thing?

    While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference. Alterations involve adjustments to an existing garment, while tailoring often refers to creating a custom-fit garment or reshaping one significantly.

  • Are alterations expensive?

    The cost varies depending on the complexity of the work. Simple fixes like hemming may be less costly, while resizing a jacket may cost more. At Benzinger’s, we are happy to provide pricing estimates for any service. See some of our most common alterations pricing here.

  • Can alterations make clothing bigger?

    Yes, in some cases! We can let out seams to make garments larger if extra fabric is available.

  • Can alterations be undone?

    Some alterations can be reversed, such as those involving temporary stitches. However, permanent changes, like cutting fabric, cannot be undone. Our expert team is always here to help make the best decisions for your clothing, ensuring that every alteration aligns with your needs and preferences.

Ready to Transform Your Wardrobe?

We’re not just another dry cleaner; we’re your partner in sustainable wardrobe care. Our skilled team ensures every garment is handled with precision and care. By choosing to alter and repair, you’re investing in a more sustainable future while keeping your wardrobe fresh, functional, and stylish. Next time you’re tempted to toss a garment that doesn’t fit quite right, consider the magic of alterations instead. Your wardrobe-and the planet-will thank you.

 

January Special: 20% Off Alterations

To kick off the new year with a more sustainable wardrobe, we’re offering 20% off all alterations throughout January! Whether you need a simple fix or a complete overhaul of your wardrobe, our expert alteration services can help your clothes look and feel their best. Don’t miss out on this special offer.

We also offer FREE FITTINGS at our Hamburg location (5646 Camp Rd) M-F 8:30AM-4PM.

Lilah Babiak