Adaptive Tailoring Shouldn’t Be Costly. Here’s What to Ask For.

Adaptive alterations should not cost any more than nonadaptive alterations. But costs can vary tailor by tailor, service by service, garment by garment, and (sometimes widely) by geographic location; be sure to ask for an estimate during the fitting process.

For this article, we inquired about pricing for “standard” adjustments from alteration specialists including Alts, which offers a large range of services in studios across the tri-state area, and Tad More Tailoring in Rockford, Illinois, which provides both mail-in and on-site alterations. Typically, a hem can cost between $20 and $50, changing closures costs between $50 and $100, and a more complicated fix, such as moving shoulder seams, can fall anywhere from $100 to $250.

We also reached out to some specialty tailors to inquire about more in-depth and labor-intensive customization options. Isa Kriegeskotte, owner of Isa Tailored & Made in Bedford, New York, sees clients at her atelier and does house calls. She specializes in custom looks and extensive garment alterations. In her atelier, consultations for custom projects and alterations start at $200. House-call alteration prices start at $1,000.

When evaluating local tailors, seek those who have varied resumes that show work in a range of industries and specialties, including bridal, film and television, suiting, and fashion. They’re likely used to providing customized alterations and figuring out how to adjust garments in nontraditional ways. Keep in mind that, like plumbing and electrical work, sewing and making are specialized skills.

If you can’t find a tailor in your area, there are a handful, including Brannelly from Sewn Adaptive, who provide virtual consultations. Consultation fees vary widely. Brannelly’s virtual fittings are free, after which she will quote a price for the alteration. Some waive the consultation fee if you choose to move ahead with agreed-upon services.

No matter whether you decide to go with a local tailor or one who specializes in adaptive alterations, make sure to ask about the process in the case that you’re not happy with the end result, and ask how many (if any) subsequent modifications are included in the price. Provide specific feedback and, if possible, take photos to show what you do and don’t like. Any tailor you hire should be open to fixing something that doesn’t work or fit correctly.

While it’s true that everyone can benefit from adaptive clothing, fashion journalist and DJ Keita Tokunaga values the sense of individuality style can offer. “The ideal world in which inclusive wear can be realized is one in which each person is able to tailor their own style to suit their individual needs,” he said.

And it shouldn’t cost more to do it.

This article was edited by Claire Perlman and Tracy Vence.