Learn more about taking in the waist

Taking in the waist is one of the most common alterations we do. People phrase it a few ways: take in the waist, take in the waistband, a waist adjustment, or having the waist taken in. They all mean the same thing, reducing the waist so your jeans, pants, skirt or shorts sit snugly instead of gaping at the back or sliding down.

How to take in the waist of jeans

For jeans, our partners take the waist in at the centre back seam or the side seams, depending on how they're built. Denim waistbands are thick and often have rivets, bar tacks and heavy topstitching, so it's skilled work, which is why denim is priced a little higher. We keep your original waistband, belt loops and stitching style looking as close to factory as we can. No need to do it yourself, send them in and we'll handle it.

How to take in pants or trousers at the waist

Same idea for pants and trousers. The waist comes in at the back or side seams by up to 5cm, with the original waistband and finish kept intact. If your pants are also loose through the seat or legs, that's a separate alteration (see below).

Taking in a skirt or shorts waist

Skirts and shorts follow the same approach. For skirts, pleats or a zip near the seam can change the method, so if your skirt has either, contact us first and we'll confirm.

How much can be taken in?

Up to 5cm, roughly one size. If you need more than 5cm, the waistband usually has to be partly rebuilt, so contact us first and we'll let you know what's possible and the cost.

Tightening vs taking in

Searching for how to tighten a jeans or pants waistband? Tightening usually means taking it in at the seam, the same alteration described here, rather than a temporary fix like a belt or elastic insert. Taken in properly at the seam, it holds its new size and keeps the original look.

Waist vs the whole garment

Taking in the waist adjusts the waistband only. If the garment is loose through the hips, seat or legs as well, you want the side seams taken in or a taper instead. Leave a note on your order or contact us and we'll point you to the right service.

Elastic and unusual waistbands

Elastic waistbands, drawstrings, adjustable tabs and decorative waist features need a different approach and aren't always suitable for a standard take in. If your waistband has any of these, contact us first so we can confirm before you order.