If one of your garments has a rip or hole, you might think the only solution is to throw it away. However, there’s an easy way to simultaneously repair the damage and tailor your wardrobe to suit your unique fashion preferences. All you have to do is apply a patch, and your favorite piece of clothing will be better than before. If you’re feeling inspired, give this method a try on some of the garments listed below.

3 Ways to Use Patches to Rejuvenate Old Clothes

1. Add Color to Jackets & Vests

If you have an old jacket or vest in the closet that you never wear, it can be made fashionable again with some interesting and colorful patches. Cut uniquely colored materials, like suede, velvet, or leather, into eye-catching shapes and apply them to your dated pieces. This even works for shapeless or oversized coats, which are now in style. The best garments for this look are baggy khaki or military jackets, worn leather coats, and faded denim. 

2. Bring Old Jeans Back to Life

If you have a pair of jeans you once loved but just aren’t excited about anymore, patches are the perfect solution. There are many ways to tailor these pants to portray your unique style and aesthetic. For example, if you prefer a more put-together look, patches can be used to cover holes or rips. Or, if you enjoy a distressed, edgier appearance, leave the damage be and opt to add patches that feature cheeky phrases or artistic designs. 

3. Make an Old Blazer Trendy

An old tweed, corduroy, or sports jacket or blazer can become trendy again with some contrasting patches on worn-out or faded elbows. Add corduroy patches to a tweed blazer, leather patches to a corduroy blazer, and almost any style to a sports jacket—try contrasting plain fabric, denim, or even bright, red patches. Your old jacket will look like it came from a high-end shop. 

If your favorite garments need more repairs than a fashion patch can provide, the team at 6 Avenue Tailor in New York City is here to help. These esteemed Midtown tailors specialize in custom alterations for wedding gowns, jeans, coats, leather jackets, and more. They have over 30 years of experience and even provide rush and same-day delivery services. Visit their website to learn more about what they do, and call (212) 593-1925 to schedule an appointment today.