Back to the coat question - alteration?

Astrid

I really don't like the way my peacoat fits me right now. The shoulders are much too wide (there are some kind of shoulder pads) and with the short hair the fit looks even more off than it did before. Head and shoulders are just disproportionate and I think I'm looking like I'm dressing up in a man's coat. Not so fab...

I'm wondering whether I should try to have the shoulders narrowed down, but I know that this is a difficult alteration. I'm not sure if my regular place would do it and I worry trying it might ruin the coat. Has anyone ever done this or have this done? How did it work out?

Another option would be to order a new coat after all. Right now a replacement peacoat would be available for 120€, in a navy.

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9 years ago

General

4 replies

Latest reply was from Astrid

Anonymous

Hi Astrid. As you know I sew for a living and I've done many an alteration to make shoulders narrower. It is rather time consuming. It involves un-picking a section of lining along the hemline of the coat to gain access to the inside and then most of the sleeve head has to be un-picked and stitched back in in the new position. Shoulder pads will need a bit trimming from the outer edge or moved a back a little to align with the new sleeve position. I would say that a tailor with a decent reputation should be able to do it. As an Idea of cost I usually charge from £22 to £30 as some tailored men's jackets in particular have a lot of layers to deal with inside.

9 years ago

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks for chiming in, Diane! That's really helpful. I'm wearing the coat all the time right now, so I'd have to wait until it is colder and I can wear my puffer coat to have alterations done.

9 years ago

Anonymous

Alterations can be pricey depending on what needs to be done. I have a friend who lost weight and went from a size 12 to a size 4. She had her favorite jacket altered, and said it cost her as much as buying a new jacket. So get a good quote from a reputable place before getting it altered. You may be better off buying a new coat.

9 years ago

Astrid

Veteran

Thanks! My usual place always gets paid in advance, so you know what you're in for. But they make mostly easier alterations and I'm not sure they will do it.

ETA

Just wanted to add that even if the shoulders will fit better with an alteration the coat will still be rather roomy otherwise. I guess if the cost is too high it really doesn't make sense to alter it.

9 years ago

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