“But these pants fit me just fine a few months ago!” It’s annoying to pick up a pair of pants only to find that they have become a little too tight in the waist because either they shrank or you expanded. On top of that, you know your wallet is going to take a hit because you’re going to have to buy new ones. Or do you? You’ll be happy to learn that there are three ways to easily, inexpensively, and inconspicuously breathe new life into your snug pants.
Button Extenders
Jeans and many other pants cinch with buttons that slip into a slot on the opposite side. For these, you can purchase extender buttons that add about an inch to your pants’ waist. Purchase? You’re probably thinking why buy? Can’t I use a rubberband or paperclip? Yes you can and both are better than nothing in a pinch. But they are not good long-term solutions because rubber bands can break and neither is terribly discreet. Button extenders aren’t as noticeable and usually cost only $3 – $10 depending on if you get a single one or a pack. They look like regular buttons but have a loop that extends out that you insert the pant button into. Then you place the extender’s button portion into the eyelet in your pants.
Snaps/Hook Extenders
You might be thinking well that’s good to know but my pants use hooks and clasps to fasten, not buttons. What about me? You’re covered, you’ll be glad to know. A web search for “pant waist extenders clasps” fetched several results for waistband extenders that work on not only pants with hooks but skirts, too! These extenders look like a strip of cloth with a set of three clasps on one side and a hook on the other. You put the pants’ hook into one of the clasps on the one side, depending on your requirements, and then put the extender’s hook into the clasp on the pants. These types of waistband extenders usually come in a pack of several basic colors like khaki, black, blue, and gray so you can wear them inconspicuously. A package of these will run you anywhere from $7 – $12.
Stretching Devices
If you don’t feel like dealing with extra peripherals when using your pants, there is a more permanent solution. You can purchase a device that you put in your pants’ waist while they are buttoned so that it stretches the fibers, permanently making the waistline bigger. Unfortunately, not only do these devices forever alter your pants, they cost more than the other two methods mentioned above. Ideally, if the pants don’t fit because you’ve gained weight, you’ll shed some pounds and your need for the extenders. Also, extenders are useful in situations like when you have an upset or bloated stomach and just need a bit more breathing room for a short while.
Pants that don’t fit in the waist can be a pain – quite literally. Luckily, there are ways to easily make the waistline of your pants more accommodating. That way you can keep using your otherwise fine pants instead of shelling out a lot of money to update your wardrobe.
