I’m not against learning how to make alterations in items purchased, and there are times when my wife and I look for things that might be a tad on the large side, rather than too small, because larger items can be taken in much easier than smaller items can be… uh… stretched out? lol In recent months, I’ve suffered from a severe time deficit and that kind of puts a damper on learning new skills, but I’ve resigned myself to the fact that many female items, mainly tops, simply will not fit my body shape. I can either get things custom, tailor made, keep rolling the dice and hoping things will fit, find a t-friendly store and try things on before I buy, or dive into the art of clothing alterations.

I’m glad you were able to take care of things with your own clothing items. It sounds like you’ve really gotten a good grip on the art of alterations. Hey – practice makes perfect, right? :)

Nothing I had could really be called formal, so I gave much thought to what I would wear. I decided upon one of those Chinese Gowns with the slits up both sides, and are rather snug fitting. I have always loved the look of those gowns. So knowing where to get one, I went out and bought one.

My shoulders are rounded quite a bit, I think from years and years of hauling heavy back packs and lacking the frame to support them.

Anyhow, this gives my shoulder line a less than “manly” look. Who cares. Well anyway, when I went to get the gown I still needed to get a larger one so that I would fit the shoulder area.

I ended up heavily modifying the gown to fit my male build, a female could not get into this gown the way it is now.

My point in all this is that I have found if I order up in size I always have the option to modify a garment to fit me, but this is not an option if you under size the garment.

Before you say “but I have no sewing skills” let me tell you, neither did I. I learned very quickly. My first sewing repair was a pair of leggings that had seam fail in a very bad area, thankfully I had a long sweater on that covered the area. I ended up using those leggings to learn how to repair such a failure. It is actually quite easy.

I haven’t outed myself to any sales assistance yet, but I’ve been pondering the idea for some time now. Sooner or later, I’ll have to do just that to get good service. I’ve even been working on an optimal and tactful way out explaining who I am so as to minimize the potential of “[fill in excuse here]“.

I appreciate the input, Marlene. Thanks again! :)

Then actually try something on, and maybe buy something to cement the relationship. I’ve never had a bad response – believe me, these ladies have seen it all.

This works in other stores, too, especially smaller shops where there isn’t a big crowd of customers most of the time. Or large size shops like Lane Bryant. The worst that can happen is she says “I’m sorry, no [fill in excuse here]” in which case you go on to the next store.

I’ve made a lot of purchases this way. Usually you will get a very liberal return policy, too. I’ve even gone back dressed once or twice just for their education and enjoyment. It’s a hoot!

Best… Marlene

Some fashion stores will stock both male and female clothes. Go on a quiet day and put the female items at the bottom of your basket. Drop a pair of trousers over the top and head to the changing room. :)