Can you alter suit to make it shorter?
Certainly! Altering a suit to make it shorter is a common and practical task, especially when the suit does not fit perfectly or when you need it to match a specific occasion. Whether you’re dealing with a suit that’s too long for your height or simply want to tailor it to your personal style, here’s a guide on how to achieve a shorter suit that fits you like a glove.
Understanding the Suit
Before diving into the alteration process, it’s crucial to understand the different parts of a suit. A suit typically consists of a jacket, trousers, and sometimes a vest. The jacket has a collar, lapels, sleeves, and a waist. The trousers have a waistband, pockets, and legs. By identifying these components, you can determine which parts need to be altered to achieve the desired shorter length.
Consulting a Professional Tailor
The most reliable way to alter a suit is by consulting a professional tailor. They have the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure that the alteration is done correctly and efficiently. When you visit a tailor, bring the suit along with any specific instructions or measurements you have in mind. A professional tailor will assess the suit, take precise measurements, and discuss the best approach to achieve the desired shorter length.
Measuring the Suit
If you prefer to do the alteration yourself or want to ensure that the tailor follows your instructions accurately, it’s essential to measure the suit. Use a measuring tape to measure the suit’s length from the collar to the hem of the jacket and from the waistband to the hem of the trousers. Note these measurements to provide to the tailor or as a reference for your DIY project.
Altering the Suit
If you’re altering the suit yourself, here’s a basic outline of the process:
1. Jacket: To shorten the jacket, you’ll need to remove fabric from the bottom hem. Mark the desired length on the inside of the jacket, then cut along the marked line. Trim the excess fabric and re-sew the hem.
2. Trousers: To shorten the trousers, you’ll need to remove fabric from the bottom hem as well. Mark the desired length on the inside of the trousers, then cut along the marked line. Trim the excess fabric and re-sew the hem.
3. Adjusting the Sleeves: If the sleeves are too long, you can remove fabric from the cuff or re-sew the sleeve hem to a shorter length.
4. Finishing Touches: Once the suit is shortened, press the seams and hems to ensure a clean and polished look.
Conclusion
Altering a suit to make it shorter is a straightforward process that can be handled by a professional tailor or done yourself with a bit of patience and attention to detail. By understanding the suit’s components, consulting with a professional, or taking on the task yourself, you can achieve a perfectly fitted suit that complements your style and height.
