Replies

1. 
   becksnyc | Oct 14, 2003 02:27am | #1

   How is the fit at the most critical areas, namely does the collar fit you well?  Do the lapels lay nicely?  Are the shoulders too broad?  Are the armholes too deep?

   I have downsized men's and womens jackets IF the collar, lapels fit well.  But recutting the shoulder/sleeve (if it is too broad) is fairly complex in a lined jacket.  And if the armhole is too deep, the fabric is gone, no way to raise it unless you want to take up the shoulder seam--again, fairly complex to resize the sleeve to fit and taking up the shoulder will NOT work for all shoulder types. 

   Deepening the vertical seams is fairly easy, as long as you distribute the alterations around the jacket so that the garment maintains its balance.

   If you are patient and have a good eye, it might turn out ok. Without a photo of the jacket on you, it's hard to tell what challenges you'll face. Compare the fit of the various pieces to a similar garment or pattern you already own.  Get a second, professional opinion, if only to give you confidence before you tackle it.  If you need help on specific parts of the redoux, let me know.

   Becks

1. 
   poppyqlewis | Oct 14, 2003 02:37am | #2

   thanks for your excellent advice. the collar and lapels do lie flat - but i'll have to reset the sleeves. there is no lining in the back of the jacket (a summer tux?) i can't see the inside front now in my mind's eye (i'm at work- sorry, boss!) maybe i can add a side panel, which would raise the armhole. hmmm, the mind is spinning! i'd like to keep a sleek look - if i were to go "deconstructed" i could be more brazen, and who knows it may turn out quite dishelved looking anyway...thanks again.