How to Open Blazer Vents

If you thought those tiny stitches on the back of your blazer or skirt were decoration, guess again. They are meant to be removed so your clothing fits better. Maybe you have never removed those little stitches before and wonder how to open blazer vents. Here is a look at how to do it, and some information about why vents even exist and why they’re shipped sewn shut.

How do I tell if a vent should be opened?

In a few rare cases, a vent is not meant to be opened. However, it is easy to test this by finding the thread keeping the vent shut. If it is a long and loose stitch or of a highly contrasting color, then the stitch is meant to be removed. Some examples of this are dark black threads crossing the back of a pale pink blazer. If the thread blends in, this often means the choice of opening the vent is up to you and you should check the fit before proceeding.

How do I open the vent?

In cases of delicate fabric, you want to be careful opening a vent or slit. Tugging the threads lose can damage your garment, so proceed carefully. You will want to use scissors or a seam ripper to carefully snip the threads. For very long stitches, you don’t need to get close to the fabric. After cutting the threads, carefully pull them free. Now that you know how to open blazer vents, here’s a look at why you should. You can use this same method for other removable stitches, such as those keeping a pocket shut.

What are vents for?

For fitted garments, a vent is in place to allow for greater freedom of movement. This is especially important when wearing a pencil skirt while rushing up a flight of stairs. Opening the vent in the back reduces the risk of your skirt riding up or splitting. Another use for a vent is to modify how something fits. A tailored blazer can sit straight across your hips if you don’t open the vent, but opening it can accentuate your figure.

Why are vents sewn shut?

Since you will usually open these vents anyway, why are they sewn shut? This is to protect your garment during transport. Like other consumer goods, clothes typically travel a long distance from manufacturer to distributer to retailer. Even if the garments are tightly wrapped, they can still get snagged and rip. To prevent this, the vents are sewn shut. They aren’t the only slit to receive this treatment, you sometimes find removable stitching on pockets and shirt cuffs.

Now that you know the best way to open blazer vents, and why, dig into your closet and seek out any removable stitches you could have missed. Keep in mind the test about thread color and stitch size, because you will want to try clothes on if they have an optional vent. While this is a simple enough fix you can do on your own, don’t forget to check our top 10 alterations under $20. These quick fixes are best left to a professional.