If you can’t find fabric that matches the dress, choose a fabric that complements the style of your dress. For example, if you have a floral print dress, pick a fabric that’s the same color as one of the flowers. Alternatively take fabric from the bottom of the dress to create the strap. [2] X Expert Source Alterations ExpressAlteration, Tailoring, and Dry Cleaning Specialists Expert Interview. 15 September 2021.
Ensure that they’re measuring exactly where you want the strap to fall on the dress.
If you’re unsure what style sleeve to use, check fashion magazines for dresses that are a similar style to yours and see what sleeves they have.
If you’re attaching a full sleeve, it’s alright to make the straps as wide as you like. Keep in mind that if your straps are over 3 inches (7. 6 cm) wide, they’ll completely alter the shape of the neckline.
For example, if your original strap measurement was 14 inches (36 cm), add 4 to get 18 inches (46 cm) for the length.
Remove the pins as you sew. If you don’t have a sewing machine, you could hand stitch the straps in place.
If you’re unsure what size sleeve to add, start with a long sleeve. Then, you can shorten the length as you like.
Attach the tape to the right side of the sleeve piece. If you don’t have double-sided sewing tape, you can simply pin the sleeve in place. It just might not be as secure. If you can, place your dress on a form or you might need to ask a friend to help you pin the sleeves while you’re wearing the dress.
If you’re attaching a capped sleeve, you won’t need to sew the bottom of the sleeve closed.
