I wish I had a nickel for every time I see someone trying on one pair of pants after another, repeatedly rejecting a close, but not perfect fit! 

I want to scream STOP!  

But, I simply smile and say, "An easy fix would be to have a tailor take in the waist just a bit, don't you think?"

Truth be told, odds are about a million to one that you will find a pair of pants or jeans that fit you perfectly right off the rack. Your chances of winning the lottery are probably better!

Along with good teachers and nurses, good tailors are among heaven’s greatest gifts. And, if you need a local referral, just ask around town. Like cream, the good ones always rise to the top and are well known throughout the area.

So, why not try this approach next time you shop? If you really love them, and if they love you back (the cut, rise and shape are right for you), then you should definitely buy them. 

Next? Drop them off at the tailor on your way home. Just a couple days later, while you're out doing your usual errands, you can quickly pick them up and voila! Your black pants now look and feel perfect.

File under: sad, but true story:

My client, Miss X, recently admitted that she currently has 24 pairs of black pants in her closet.

"Too many," she asked?

"Yes," said I. 

By contrast, my closet shows three: one pair of tropical wool blend for spring and summer; one pair of heavier, lined wool pants for winter; and finally, a pair that are part of my black suit. Yup, that's it. 

All three, however, were tailored to fit. 

I always need my pants altered in one way or another—except that one time.

It was magical: I saw them on a mannequin and they were gorgeous! They were also on sale! I could easily picture the numerous ways I would style them.

I decided I would pay whatever it cost to have them tailored, no matter how extensive the alterations. When I tried them on, I closed my eyes, I held my breath and I prayed.

Lo and behold, not only were they great looking, they fit perfectly. They skimmed, not hugged, my body. The waist was comfortable and the hips were just right. Even the length was exactly what I needed. I loved them and they loved me back... a lot.

Never did I have this experience before, haven't had it since, and chances are, I will never have it again.  And that's O.K. I have a great tailor.

Do you?