
A suit that fits well can improve your overall appearance. However, off-the-rack suits may not always fit perfectly. Simple alterations can make a significant difference in the way your suit looks and feels.
Listed here are practical alteration tips that can instantly improve the fit of your suit.
Tapering the jacket:
One of the easiest ways to improve the fit of your suit jacket is by tapering the sides. Off-the-rack jackets often have a boxy cut that may not follow the natural line of your body. Tapering the sides of the jacket to better match your body shape can create a more flattering, streamlined silhouette. This simple suit alterations can instantly give your suit a more modern and fitted appearance.
Adjusting the sleeves:
The length of your jacket sleeves is a key factor in achieving the right fit. Ideally, the sleeves should end at the wrist bone, allowing about a half-inch of your shirt cuffs to show. If your sleeves are too long or short, it can throw off the entire look of your suit. A tailor can easily shorten or lengthen your sleeves to the perfect length, ensuring they are neither too long nor too short for a polished, balanced look.
Shortening the trouser length:
Trouser length is another essential factor in suit fit. When the trousers are too long, they can create an unkempt appearance. Instead, trousers that are too short may make your legs look disproportionate. A simple alteration is to shorten the trouser length to just above the shoe, where the hem lightly rests on the top of your shoes without bunching up. This adjustment will give your suit a cleaner, more tailored look.
Adjusting the trouser waist:
Sometimes, the fit of the trousers can feel too tight or too loose around the waist. If the waistband is too tight, it can be uncomfortable and create bulging, while a loose waistband can make the trousers slip down. A tailor can easily adjust the waist size to provide a better fit. This adjustment improves comfort and also improves the overall silhouette of the suit.
Fixing the shoulder fit:
A well-fitting shoulder is essential to achieving a sharp look. If the jacket’s shoulders are too tight, it can restrict movement and create an unflattering shape. Instead, overly loose shoulders can make the jacket look oversized and ill-fitting. A tailor can adjust the shoulders of your suit jacket to ensure they sit perfectly on your frame. This alteration is more complex but can drastically improve the overall fit.