Wool coat alterations?

Keix

I'm eyeing a NAS wool coat, but whether I order it to try depends on whether I can feasibly alter the midi wool coat I already have at home. It's a size 4 and I'm a size 2P--but in the mirror, just pinching back the waist makes a HUGE difference to the fit. I do not need to raise the waist, just slim the body overall. Depending on price quote, I'd also consider shortening the sleeves and length, but they're not unbearably long right now.

My existing coat is better quality than the new one I'm considering, wool/cashmere blend vs. wool/poly/nylon blend. There are a few long darts running down the back that could be used to take in the body, but of course the tailor would have to take the lining apart as well.

Is waist-slimming a feasible alteration for lined wool coats? What should I be expecting to pay, $50, $100?

13 years ago

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5 replies

Latest reply was from Keix

Louise

Veteran

Bumping for you x

13 years ago

Lyn D.

Veteran

It sounds like an expensive alteration list for the old coat, but lets see what the others think?

13 years ago

Ornella

(website)

Veteran

KL, how much life is *left* in the coat you already have? I would consider that factor very important when determining if the alteration is worth doing. If it can go strong for another 4-5 years, then I'd say the alteration is a sensible consideration.

One thing to bear in mind is who does your alteration. The fact you are asking how much you could expect it to cost tells me you don't actually have someone you already use or have been recommended. So, I'd ask around first who is actually experienced in doing such alterations, then get quotes and I'd rather pay a bit more to someone who knows the construction of the coats better than e.g. silk blouses. I hope this makes sense to you.

13 years ago

Chippy Mia

Active Member

Is it feasible to alter wool coats? Yes, i've done it and it is cost worthy IF the coat is worth it and you have a very good seamtress/tailor.

It depends on where you where but locally it is about $20-30 to shorten sleeves; $30-60 to shorten length; $40-60 to take in the body/waist. Cost will be more depending the on the design of the coat (pockets, ties, buttons, etc that may be in the way. The best thing is to get a fitting and ask for a quote.

You would probably have to shorten the sleeves if they are too long but can you wear a belt with the coat? Maybe a wide or thin leather belt to give several styling options? A coat that is a little loose around the waist is better than a coat that is too tight. Also consider that you may want to add a sweater or blazer underneath.

13 years ago

Keix

Veteran

Ornella - The old coat is a classic style (pale gray, single button walker) and has only been worn twice. It's basically new.

I don't have a tailor in mind, but I do have a few places in Philadelphia that have gotten good Yelp reviews. I have a pile of stuff that definitely needs altering, so I'll test them out with those first--but you're right that altering dresses is a different ballgame than altering a lined wool coat.

The coat is in a different timezone currently, but maybe next month I'll post pictures to have YLF help me decide whether it's salvageable.

13 years ago

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