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Member since 6/17/17
Posts: 28
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Posted on: 2/18/22 1:02 PM ET
I've fit a bodice that pretty much fits me in the shoulders (just a tad wide) but the waist is too small—I don't think the zipper will close. The bust fits me fine. My question is, can I increase the waist on the bodice even thought there are darts in the waist? Or should I go up a size in the pattern and adjust the shoulders smaller from that size? Thanks so much for your help!
  
Member since 7/4/05
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Posted on: 2/18/22 1:30 PM ET
The waist area is far easier to alter than the shoulders to bust area.

Let the darts out in the waist, all the way if you have to, and leave the upper bodice alone.
  
Member since 3/24/04
Posts: 26392
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Posted on: 2/18/22 2:12 PM ET
In reply to msmeggiep
Two things to try:

1. increase circumference by letting out the waist darts (visually, you may need tiny waist darts in the bodice if they are to continue a line from skirt darts, like

2. Increase at the side seam... Easiest for me. Increase the seam allowance at the side seam by at least 1/4 the amount you need at the waist, both front and back. Sew darts and shoulders and a bit below the armscye, and then try on. Pin the side seams for a comfortable fit, and then sew.
  
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