Pickpocket Deterrent
Keep pickpockets out of your bag with a makeshift safety pin lock. “Use a safety pin horizontally across a closed zipper of a purse or backpack to deter theft. Once the pin is closed, the purse cannot be opened unless it is removed,” Sawyer says. Thieves will likely move on to easier marks once they encounter your safety pin protection.
Replace a Broken Zipper Pull
In a pinch, use a safety pin to replace a broken zipper pull. Run the pointed end of the pin through the zipper head, then close the pin. Pull the safety pin as you would a zipper pull. I’ve used this trick on coats, luggage and backpacks and it’s simple, easy and convenient. As a bonus, safety pins can also be used to set a stuck zipper back on track.
Quick and Easy Dress Adjustments
Don’t have time to take in that dress before the party? Use a safety pin instead. “A safety pin can be placed at the rear or inner seam of a dress to make quick and non permanent adjustments to the fit of a dress to help shape a garment for that special event,” Grammer says. This simple trick can create a tailored look without the time or added expense of a sewn alteration.
Retrieve a Drawstring
Who among us hasn’t lost the end of a drawstring in a waistband? The good news is this frustrating event can easily be remedied with the help of a safety pin. “Fasten the pin to the end of the drawstring, push it into the waistband, and slide it along, gathering the fabric behind it as you push it through,” Sawyer says. Patience and perseverance pays off when using this safety pin trick.
Travel Tangle Prevention
When traveling, use safety pins and cloth to keep jewelry separated. “Hold necklaces and bracelets on a cloth or ribbon using safety pins to stop them from tangling in your baggage,” Grammer says. Lay necklaces on the cloth or ribbon and secure each with a safety pin near the clasp. Add a second pin on the other end for longer necklaces. Make sure to leave a gap between each piece to further prevent tangling.
Reduce static electricity
If you’ve ever been zapped by static electricity, this tip’s for you. “Clip a safety pin to the inside of your hem to cut down on static electricity conduction – especially during winter!” Sawyer says. Wearing a metal safety pin slowly discharges static electricity, preventing a big build-up (and zap) when you touch something conductive, like a metal doorknob. It’s not a complete deterrent, but can lessen the charge.
Strap Stopping
Use this trick to keep wandering bra and dress straps in place throughout the day. “A safety pin can be placed on the underside of the garment to anchor the outer fabric of the strap to keep it secured in place,” Grammer says. This stops the strap from shifting or falling off the shoulder, an infuriating experience. You can also pin bra straps together in the back when wearing racer back tops.
Small Hole Cleaner
Small and compact, safety pins are easy to have on hand at all times and can help keep small holes in your products or devices clean. “Keep a safety pin clipped to the inside of your makeup bag to open small vials that inevitably become caked with overuse, such as eyelash glue,” Sawyer says. “Use the opened safety pin to clear the small cosmetic nozzle and keep your product flowing.” The same can be said for tiny ports on your cell phone or computer.
Add Decorative Touches
Safety pins are used by professionals like Grammer to fasten feathers, beads or flowers to hats and headpieces, but can be used to adorn other items as well. “As a milliner who creates bespoke fascinators and headpieces, I’ll reach for safety pins on a near daily basis,” she says. “Apart from basic repairs, they can be surprisingly handy for some more inventive styling.” Use safety pins to adorn a bag or jacket with decorative flowers or feathers.
Get creative and add safety pins to clothing for a unique flair. “Safety pins can be placed anywhere on your clothing to add a detail,” Grammer says. “They can be placed on the edge of the lapel, adorn a tie or add some punk to a reworked piece of a hat.” Safety pins come in a variety of sizes, materials and colors to provide endless looks.
About the Experts
- Meieli Sawyer, PhD is an advertising executive for the Weimbach Group and a fashion historian. She holds fashion degrees from the London College of Fashion and Syracuse University.
- Amy Grammer is a professional milliner and owner of Milliner’s Row in Lousiville, Kentucky, specializing in bespoke fascinators and headpieces.
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