Some jackets can be lengthened if there’s excess fabric available inside the hem, but don’t assume this is the case.

Jacket Sleeve Length

Some suit jackets have a bit of excess fabric for lengthening, but be sure to check (or ask about this) before buying, if you think the sleeves are too long.

Shortening a suit jacket’s sleeves is a common alteration that can be done one of two ways: from the wrist or the shoulder.

Shortening the sleeves from the wrist is easy if your jacket has non-functioning sleeve buttons.

If your jacket has working buttons, it may need to be shortened from the shoulder – a much more difficult and costly alteration.

Jacket Sleeve Width

A blazer’s sleeves can be taken in for a slimmer fit through the biceps and forearms.

This is a fairly common and simple alteration.

Jacket Torso Fit (Slimness)

Getting a suit jacket or sport coat taken in for a slimmer fit is a common alteration that any decent tailor can handle.

Also, many jackets can be let out for a slightly roomier fit, as long as there’s a bit of excess fabric available inside the seams.

Replace Buttons

This is a cheap and easy alteration that can be done at any tailor and even some dry cleaners. You can also learn how to do this yourself.

Just be sure to save the extra buttons that come with your suits and jackets so you don’t have to hunt down a close match.

Should you go custom?

If you’d rather not deal with alterations, or if you have a non-average body type that makes suit shopping difficult, you might want to consider custom suits and jackets.

You basically have two options: made-to-measure and full bespoke. Here’s the difference between odd-the-rack, MTM and bespoke.