Expert Alterations, Tailored to You
Smart Fit Tailoring & Design fixes hems, seams and resizing so your off-the-rack clothing finally sits right.
How much does it cost to get clothes altered in Melbourne, and who is it for?
General alterations typically involve hemming, taking in, letting out and resizing everyday garments, suited to anyone whose off-the-rack clothing doesn't fit quite right. Cost depends on the garment and the complexity of the work.
Smart Fit Tailoring & Design is a boutique studio in Melbourne's CBD offering general alterations for everyday wardrobes. Our alterations restore proper fit and comfort to clothes you already own and love, rather than sending you shopping for a replacement. Whether it's a favourite pair of trousers that need hemming or a jacket that needs to be taken in, the goal is always the same: clothes that fit the way they were meant to.
Over 25 years of industry experience — Nanning Forsyth's hands-on tailoring background.
Certificate IV in Apparel and Fashion — a formally recognised qualification in garment construction and alteration.
Australian Masters of Fashion Award, 2007 — recognition from the Australian fashion industry.
What We Fix
If a garment doesn't sit right, we can almost always fix it. Here are the general alterations we handle most often.
Hemming
Trousers, dresses and skirts shortened or lengthened to sit exactly where they should.
Taking In & Letting Out
Waists, seams and shoulders adjusted so a garment moves with you, not against you.
Seam & Zipper Repairs
Split seams, worn zippers and loose stitching repaired so the garment holds up for years.
Full Resizing
Jackets, suits and dresses reshaped to your current fit, not the size on the label.
How the Alteration Process Works
1. Bring it in. Bring in your garment during business hours or book an appointment.
2. Consult.Consult with naning to discuss the fit issues and desired outcome.
3. Measure and pin. Garment is measured and pinned for the required alterations.
4. Alter. Skilled alterations are completed with care and precision.
5. Fitting check. A fitting or quality check ensures the result meets your expectations.
6. Collect. Collect your perfectly adjusted garment.
Simple alterations like hemming are generally completed promptly, while more involved adjustments may take longer, with a realistic timeframe confirmed at consultation.
Serving Melbourne VIC 3000 and surrounding areas, with the studio based at Suite 5, Level 8/365 Little Collins St.
General alterations typically start from $35 per garment. Exact pricing is confirmed at consultation.
What Affects the Cost of Your Alteration
Alteration pricing depends on the type of garment, the complexity of the work, and the fabric involved, rather than a single flat rate.
Garment type and construction — lined jackets cost more to alter than simple trousers.
Extent of the change — a small hem versus a full resize.
Fabric type — delicate or heavily detailed fabrics require more careful, time-intensive handling.
Recent Alteration Work
From quick hems to full resizes, every garment leaves the studio fitting the way it was meant to from the start.
Ready to Have Your Garment Fit Perfectly?
Book a consultation with naning and let's sort out your alteration needs.
General Alterations FAQ
What kinds of alterations can you do?
Smart Fit Tailoring & Design handles a wide range of everyday alterations including hemming trousers and dresses, taking in or letting out seams, and resizing garments for a better fit. Whether it's a small adjustment or a more involved resize, the team can assess what's needed at your consultation.Do I need to make an appointment?
Walk-ins are welcome during business hours — Monday to Friday 9am–5:30pm and Saturday 10am–4pm. Booking ahead is a good idea if you have multiple items or a more complex alteration, so naning can give your garments the time and attention they deserve.How long will my alterations take?
Turnaround time depends on the complexity of the work and current bookings. Simple alterations like hemming are generally completed promptly, while more involved adjustments may take a little longer. You'll be given a realistic timeframe at the time of your consultation.Why choose Smart Fit for alterations?
Smart Fit Tailoring & Design takes the time to understand exactly how a garment should sit before touching a single seam. Every alteration is fitted, checked and finished with the same care, whether it's a simple hem or a full resize.
Let's Get Your Fit Right
Bring your garment in for a warm, low-pressure consultation, no rush, just an honest look at what it needs.
Explore More Services
Smart Fit offers a range of related tailoring and dressmaking services beyond general alterations.