This alteration allows us to dive a little bit deeper into lined garments. Whereas unlined garments can just be taken in simply with darts in a single step procedure, here we will have to go in between the layers and navigate installing even-depth darts that match on either side. It is a little tricky, but a very fun one, follow along with me below as we create suit jacket darts.

Altering the suit jacket shoulders are so often requested because it can apply to truly any jacket, it is in no way gender specific. Being able to alter the shoulders of any garment heavily impacts the overall proportions style and general look of the garment, no matter who is wearing it!

This procedure will take you methodically step by step through shortening the length of a suit jacket. Beginning with the front panel at the bottom edge of the rounded lapel and moving back through one or two vents we will work our way step-by-step across the bottom of the jacket. Simliar to many tailoring procedures, this one has very specific steps and a unique order of operations where each step heavily impacts the next.

Though we are just essentially measuring, cutting and turning up the edge of the fabric, the equipment and the knowledge required to perform this procedure have taken quite a while to perfect, and I am excited to share these tips and tricks with you now!

Suit pants are the most common garment that we see in the shop as evidence by the fact that when you buy a full suit you can in fact buy two pairs of pants for every jacket. Suit pants are well loved, heavily worn and deserve to fit right and look good.

Though altering the sleeve length of a suit jacket is an extremely often-requested alteration it is surprisingly difficult, the silver lining of course is that there is an exact science and step-by-step procedure to succesfully completing this process.

This is a really great alteration because it’s extremely versatile; the seams can be let out and taken in as many times as the fabric will allow.

The way a suit initially fits can be changed dramatically because suits are designed from the onset to be altered. When the suit is originally sewn there are lots of handy details that make alterations possible such as extra seam allowance and hem allowance along with different ways to get inside of the jacket and lining itself to make adjustments.

We’re so excited to announce the first post for our newest series: How To Tailor a Suit!

Follow along with us week by week as we discuss the ins and outs of altering, manipulating and tailoring one of the foundational pieces of any wardrobe; the Suit.

Our next video in the Button Suit saga might even teach you something. Follow along with our favorite intern Garry as he learns to sew on a button and help the team get ahead on this project!

How many buttons do you think it takes to cover an entire suit!? Come find out Behind the Seams with us as we build an entire suit completely covered in thousands of buttons!