Traditional Hem

Check out the step-by-step instructions to learn how to pin your shirt for the Shorten Length - Traditional Hem alteration.

This Pinning Guide applies to Button Downs only.

01

Before You Get Started

To pin this alteration, you’ll need the one Traditional Hem safety pin from your Ship Kit.

If you don’t have a Ship Kit yet, head to our Shop page to purchase a customization. Once you complete your order, we’ll send you your complimentary Ship Kit.

If you don’t have a Ship Kit yet, head to our Shop page to get started. Once you complete your order, we’ll send your complimentary Ship Kit.

SHOP ALTERATIONS

02

Traditional Hemlines

A Traditional Hem is (1) a curved hem that is longer in the middle and slightly shorter on the sides and (2) longer in the back than in the front.

To pin your button down for a traditional hem, you will only need to mark the front length of your Traditional Hem.

03

Determine the length for your new Traditional Hem.

Choose either option A or B below to find your perfect Traditional Hem length.

A Put on the item you are altering.

While standing up straight in front of a mirror, fold the bottom hem of your item up and inward to your desired length to see how it will look. Continue testing until you’re satisfied.

Once you've decided the length, hold the spot with your finger, release the folded fabric, and grab the Traditional Hem safety pin from your Ship Kit.

The point you choose marks the new front length of your item. Since a Traditional Hem is slightly longer in the back, the back length will extend past this safety pin.

Wear a pair of shorts or pants that you’d likely wear with your altered item to help you pick the best length.

Raise your arms while testing lengths. What looks good when relaxed may be too short with your arms up.

B Use an item you own as a guide.

Look through your closet for items similar to the one you're altering. Pick one with a hem length you like to copy.

Once you've picked your reference item, lay the item you’re altering on a flat surface, then place the reference piece on top.

Align the shoulders of both items before marking the new length for your Traditional Hem.

04

Mark your desired length with the Shorten Length - Traditional Hem safety pin.

Place the safety pin parallel to the existing bottom hem at your desired length.

Again, the point you choose marks the new front length of your item. Since a Traditional Hem is slightly longer in the back, the back length will extend past this safety pin.

The safety pin only needs to pierce one layer of fabric to mark the new length. It does not need to hold any folds in place.

05

Test the length you pinned.

After placing the Shorten Length - Traditional Hem safety pin, fold the hem of your item up and inward at the pinned length to double-check your choice.

Adjust and repin if needed.

Make sure the safety pin is parallel to the bottom hem.

If you purchased additional customizations for this item, refer to the next Pinning Guide. Otherwise, continue with this step.

06

Prepare the pinned item for shipping.

If wearing the item, carefully take it off, ensuring all safety pins stay in place.

Put your item and its Instruction Card into your Ship Kit Return Bag.

After using all Instruction Cards, seal your Ship Kit Return Bag, attach the prepaid shipping label, and drop it off at any USPS location.

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GET INSPIRED

Check out how other people altered their items.