What you need to know: 13 frequently asked questions on tailoring of jackets, blazers and shirts
photo by PinkMoose
How many times have you heard the saying the that clothes make the man (or woman, for that matter)? Wearing a suit that was cheap that fits you perfectly, is certainly more preferable than forking out for an Armani suit that doesn’t fit quite right.
When you’re shopping for clothes there’s always the option of having a tailor assist in making them fit just right. However, you need to know what kinds of alterations can be made and what cannot be made. You may think that your tailor has the gift to alter everything but surprise, surprise… there are just some things that cannot be altered, no matter how good your tailor is. For that reason, here are some “frequently asked questions” that we’ve heard people ask from time-to-time about basic tailoring services. We’ve also included a rough estimate in prices (prices in AUD for those viewing this from outside Australia).
1 – Can suit shoulders be made larger?
The answer to this question is no.
2 – Can suit shoulders be made smaller?
Yes, you can do this but it’s not worth it cost-wise. After all, you need to entirely re-construct your jacket so it’s always best to go with a jacket you can already fit properly into.
3 – Can your sleeves be tailored longer?
In many cases, the answer to this question is yes but it depends on how much fabric is available on the sleeves’ underside. If your jacket has surgeon’s buttons, the holes are unable to be moved or covered. However, if you want additional button holes on your extended sleeves, a good tailor can do this for you. The cost is generally $15 to $30 per sleeve; more for the additional button holes.
4 – Can suit sleeves be shortened?
The answer is yes but if the sleeve buttons are well-designed then your shortening of the sleeves could cause the holes to be too close to the sleeve’s end. Thus, great care should be given. The usual cost for this tailor aspect is up to $30 per sleeve.
5 – Is it possible to make a jacket roomier on the sides?
More often than not… the answer is going to be no. The reason is that most suits coming right off the rack don’t have seam allowances for this kind of alteration.
6 – Is it possible to make the jacket slimmer?
In no uncertain terms, yes. If you like your jacket but it’s just a bit too big then you can make this kind of improvement. The alteration costs can be up to $60.
7 – Is it possible to make a jacket longer?
Simply put… no.
8 – Can you chop a jacket so that it’s shorter?
While this can be done, it shouldn’t be done. Why? It can cause an imbalance for the pockets and buttons. However, the cost to do this can be anywhere from $80 to $100, or more.
9 – Is it possible to remove the roll at the back of the neck?
The answer is yes but you need a tailor who is experienced at this. The cost can be anywhere from $50 to $75.
10 – Can business shirts be made slimmer?
Definitely; all you need to do is cut and sew. Shirt sleeves can also be made slimmer. Costs will vary based on what you are looking for. Body: $15 to $30, Sleeves: $10 to $25.
11 – Are you able to make longer shirt sleeves?
This is a silly question but no, it’s not possible unless you have additional shoulder fabric (which in, itself, is silly to have).
12 – Can you make shirt sleeves shorter?
Yes but have a seamstress do this for you. After all, the sleeve must be removed, the fabric cut and then have the sleeve reattached. This can cost you anywhere from $20 to $35 per sleeve.
13 – Should you pay $50 to $100 for alterations on a jacket/suit that was cheap to begin with?
The answer to this final question is yes. Why look for a more expensive jacket to fit your build if you can buy a cheap jacket and have alterations done for less money than buying outright?
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