Blazer Alteration - YouLookFab Forum

A question for the collective wisdom of YLF - are blazer alterations worth it? I have some blazers from my corporate days that no longer fit my arms/shoulders, postpartum and weightlifting 2 years. Arms are tight. It makes me so SAD keeping these in holding zone waiting to see if fit will ever return. Meanwhile, recent events have made it clear that I am in need of a business casual topper that I was hopeful I could use these pieces for if only I could comfortably fit them. Thoughts on whether to attempt alterations, or to let them go and buy something that fits me now?

**And bonus thanks for any wisdom on what questions to ask a tailor to make sure my clothes don't get butchered?**

Including pictures of 3 blazers - the 2nd navy feels comfortable around my arms, but perhaps is too big in shoulders and with the cropped length perhaps not a keeper for this current turn in trend re: blazer length? 1st navy is my blazer for over dresses, so I'm ok with the length, but the arms.... :-/

Thank you in advance for reading.

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5 years ago

Anonymous

It is really difficult to make anything bigger or looser, for obvious reasons. Sleeves are especially tricky, because even if there is enough seam allowance in the inside sleeve seam and the allowance, it affects the fit of the underarm area once that seam is opened up and made wider. The set in sleeve may not fit the armscye at that point. I doubt it's worth your while to attempt this .

Lisa p - thank you.

Agreeing with LisaP, it would be extensive and costly "surgery", especially if lined.
The shorter length is good with dresses, or skirts-pants with more volume though, and we can help you hunt others!

Kate

Veteran

Tailoring blazers is an expensive proposition, and as Lisa has explained so well, tailoring sleeves is especially tricky when it’s ease that is needed.

You would be better served by buying a beautiful jacket that fits your current pretty shape.

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

What Lisa p said. Pass these on, and into a new blazer.

I’m so sad for you
I think it will be easier on you if you just let them go.

Smittie, Angie, Kate, Suntiger - thank you. You are all so incredibly kind with sharing your wisdom. Have been following conversations about this season's blazers, so will continue to do so and hope to find something that will make me happy to find new homes for these.

Under normal circumstances altering blazers are the hardest alterations and can be a nightmare for person doing the job.Easier to take in than let out - depends on how much fabric in seam allowance but agree from pictures I would not undertake the job ( I sew and do all kinds of dressmaking and alterations as hobby).
Suggest you recognize that you have done a great job of getting in shape and this is a disappointing side effect of a job well done. If you consign you can take heart that they will make others happy while giving you a few bucks to put toward new pieces.

Joy

I would pass these on as altering blazers can be hit or miss. If you do try it, find a tailor who has had lots of experience altering men's suits. Letting out can be difficult. Even taking in is iffy. A tailor at Nordstroms recommended to me said a seam down the middle of the back of the jacket is key.

Colette

Bummer, your clothes should not make you sad! Agree with everyone else, pass these along and find a killer jacket that fits just right.

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