Quick answer: Alterations depend on seam allowance, lining, pattern placement, and which area needs changing. If several key areas do not fit, start with a different size or cut.

A qipao that is too small or too large cannot always be fixed by “taking it in” or “letting it out.” Buy as close to your measurements as possible and treat tailoring as a way to refine the fit, not rescue a poor starting size.

Which changes are worth discussing?

Taking in a little at the waist or shortening a plain hem may be easier to assess than enlarging the bust and hips or rebuilding the shoulders. But a tailor needs to see the actual garment. Letting out a seam requires spare fabric. Shortening a decorated hem may remove a border, while changing a slit affects both movement and appearance. A print or embroidery crossing a seam may no longer align after alteration, and lining often needs to be changed too.

What to show a tailor

Bring your bust, waist, hip, shoulder, and height measurements; the finished garment chart; photographs of the inside seams; and the shoes you plan to wear. Explain the single change you most need, then ask about cost and timing for your event. If multiple areas need to be made larger, compare another size or cut before ordering.

Try the dress while standing and sitting, with the intended underlayers, and photograph the front, side, and back. Do not remove tags or open seams before checking the seller’s return rules.