A well-fitting, fashionable suit can give you the impression that you are in control of the situation. On the flip side, an ill-fitting suit can leave you feeling lackluster and uninspired.
Dressing well is a form of art and good etiquette, but sometimes your suit jacket may need a little tweaking to achieve that perfect fit. Ignoring or avoiding these necessary alterations can negatively impact your image. To get the most value out of your suit, you should address these issues promptly.
Here are three key alterations that can transform your suit jacket into the perfect complement to your body.
1. Sleeve Length Matters
The length of your sleeves can make or break the overall appearance of your suit jacket. You’ve probably seen people walking around with sleeves that are too long, and it’s a common mistake. Ideally, your coat sleeve should reveal about 1/4″ to 1/2″ of your shirt cuff. Your sleeve should end around your wrist bone, with the top cuff peeking through. A skilled alteration specialist will adjust the sleeves from the shoulder to maintain the details and finishing of the cuffs.
2. Taper the Sleeve Width
The proper fit of a suit jacket also depends on the width of the sleeves. Off-the-rack suits often don’t fit well, especially in terms of sleeve width. You can consult an alteration expert at a tailor shop to taper the sleeves from the shoulder down, ensuring a snug fit around the top cuffs. It’s crucial to have this alteration done by a professional tailor, as an inexperienced or budget tailor may not execute it cleanly.
3. Tailor the Body Fit
The fit around your body is the most critical aspect of a suit jacket. If the fitting in this area falls short, it’s an issue you shouldn’t overlook. Your suit jacket should neither be too tight nor excessively loose. The perfect fit is when it contours your body’s structure, concealing any imperfections.
Before alterations, discuss with the alteration specialist how to achieve a stylish and comfortable fit for your body. Finally, go ahead and find your favorite fashion items online or at local stores, but make sure to get the best quality at a reasonable price!
