Tailor & Alterations
Use these phrases when you need to bring clothes to the tailor for basic alterations like hemming, taking in, or letting out.
Key Phrases
Questi pantaloni sono troppo lunghi.
neutralThese pants are too long.
State the problem simply before asking for the specific alteration.
Devo fare l'orlo a questi pantaloni.
casualI need to hem these pants.
Literally 'do the hem'. A very common, direct way to ask for shortening.
Può accorciare questi pantaloni, per favore?
politeCan you shorten these pants, please?
Using 'può' (can you) is polite and perfect for speaking to staff.
Questa gonna è larga. Può stringere un po'?
neutralThis skirt is loose. Can you take it in a bit?
Use 'stringere' when clothes are too big or wide.
La giacca è stretta. Può allargare le spalle?
neutralThe jacket is tight. Can you let out the shoulders?
Use 'allargare' when clothes are too tight.
Posso provare il vestito adesso?
casualCan I try the dress on now?
Ask this so the tailor can pin the fabric directly on you.
Quando è pronto il lavoro?
casualWhen is the work ready?
A quick, direct way to ask for the timeline.
Quando posso prendere i pantaloni?
politeWhen can I pick up the pants?
A slightly softer way to ask when you should return.
Quanto costa fare questa riparazione?
neutralHow much does it cost to do this alteration?
Always ask the price before leaving your clothes.