Kitty's Alterations: Custom Tailoring and Repairs in Charleston

What Kitty's Alterations Does

Kitty's Alterations is a custom tailoring shop in Charleston that handles hemming, seam adjustments, zipper replacement, and garment repairs. The shop works on everyday clothing, formal wear, and specialty items—wedding dresses, vintage pieces, leather jackets. Kitty and her team take in-person measurements and can usually turn around standard alterations in one to two weeks, depending on the workload and complexity of the job.

The shop is small and appointment-based, which means you're not waiting in line or competing for attention. You get a consultation where Kitty or a tailor walks through what needs to happen, shows you options if there are choices to make (like where to take in a waistband), and gives you a price and timeline before any work begins. This upfront conversation protects both you and the shop—you know what to expect, and Kitty knows exactly what you're paying for.

Key Takeaways

• Kitty's Alterations works by appointment, so call or visit to schedule rather than dropping in without notice.
• The shop handles standard alterations like hemming and seam adjustments, plus repairs like zipper replacement and patching.
• Turnaround is typically one to two weeks for most jobs, though rush work or complex alterations may take longer.
• Bring the garment and wear the shoes or undergarments you plan to wear with it so measurements are accurate.
• Payment is usually due when you pick up the finished garment, and the shop accepts cash and card.

Types of Work Kitty's Handles

Standard alterations include hemming pants and skirts, taking in or letting out seams, adjusting sleeve length, and tapering legs or arms. The shop also replaces zippers, repairs torn seams, patches holes, and reinforces weak spots in fabric. If a button is missing or a hem is coming loose, that's a quick fix—sometimes done while you wait or within a day or two.

Kitty also works on formal wear: bridesmaid dresses, wedding gowns, suits, and tuxedos. These jobs often take longer because the work is precise and the fabric is delicate. Vintage clothing and specialty items like leather or suede require extra care, and Kitty will let you know upfront if a piece is beyond repair or if the cost of fixing it approaches the cost of replacing it. She's honest about what's worth doing and what isn't.

How to Schedule and What to Bring

Call or visit in person to set up an appointment. When you come in, bring the garment and wear the shoes you'll pair it with—this matters for hemming pants or dresses. If the piece is formal wear or something you're unsure about, describe how you want it to fit or what the problem is, and Kitty will suggest the best approach.

Bring any notions or materials you want used if you have a preference—thread color, zipper style, patch fabric. If you don't have them, Kitty can source them, and that cost gets added to your bill. Ask about the price and timeline before leaving, and confirm whether you're paying a deposit or the full amount when you pick up the garment. Having this conversation at the start prevents surprises later.

Pricing and Payment

Alterations are priced by the job, not by the hour. A simple hem might cost $15 to $30 depending on the fabric and how many layers need to be sewn. Taking in a seam, replacing a zipper, or patching a hole typically runs $20 to $50. Formal wear and complex work costs more—a wedding dress alteration can range widely depending on what needs to happen.

Kitty will give you a quote before starting work. If the job is more involved than expected once she opens up the seams, she'll call you with an updated price. Payment is due when you pick up the garment. The shop takes cash and card, so bring whichever method works for you.

Turnaround Time and Rush Orders

Most alterations take one to two weeks. This gives Kitty time to fit other customers' work in and maintain quality. If you need something faster, ask about rush work when you schedule—she may be able to fit you in sooner, but there's usually an extra charge for expedited service.

Formal wear and wedding dresses take longer because the work is detailed and Kitty wants to get it right. If you have a deadline—a wedding, an event, a trip—mention it when you call so she can tell you whether she can meet it or suggest alternatives. Planning ahead is especially important for wedding season, when the shop fills up quickly.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you arrive, Kitty or a tailor will examine the garment and ask what you want changed. They'll take measurements, pin or mark the adjustments, and have you try it on if needed. This is your chance to see how it will look and speak up if something doesn't feel right. Once you agree on the work and the price, you leave the garment and get a receipt with a pickup date.

When your alterations are ready, the shop will call or text you. Pick up during business hours, inspect the work, and pay. If something isn't right, let Kitty know immediately—she'll fix it. Most tailors stand behind their work and will make adjustments if the fit or finish isn't what you agreed on, so don't hesitate to speak up if you have concerns.

Location and Hours

Kitty's Alterations is located in Charleston. Call ahead to confirm current hours and to schedule your appointment, as the shop operates by appointment and may have limited walk-in availability. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan accordingly if you have a tight deadline.

Because the shop is appointment-based, you'll get dedicated attention rather than waiting your turn. This also means Kitty can block out time for your fitting and alterations without rushing through the work. If you're new to the shop, calling first gives you a chance to ask any questions before you come in.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a simple hem take?

Most simple hems take one to two weeks. If you need it faster, ask about rush service when you call to schedule. Kitty may be able to turn it around in a few days for an extra fee.

Can you fix a broken zipper on a jacket?

Yes. Kitty replaces zippers on jackets, pants, dresses, and bags. The cost depends on the zipper type and how much work is involved. Bring the jacket to your appointment so she can assess it and give you a price.

Do you work on wedding dresses?

Yes, Kitty handles wedding dress alterations including hemming, taking in the bodice, adjusting straps, and adding bustles. These jobs take longer than everyday alterations—usually three to four weeks—so schedule early if you have a wedding date in mind.

What if I'm not happy with the alterations?

Tell Kitty right away. Most tailors will adjust the work if it doesn't match what you agreed on. Bring the garment back and explain what's not right, and she'll fix it at no extra charge if it's her responsibility.

Can you let out a seam that's already been sewn?

Sometimes, but it depends on how much fabric is in the seam allowance and whether the original seam left room to work with. Bring the garment in for a consultation—Kitty can tell you whether it's possible and what it will cost.