What alterations can be made to a shirt or trousers?

Chest

➕ 3 cm if the original shirt has darts: Removing darts can add up to 3 cm around the half-chest measurement. It’s a straightforward alteration, and stitching marks usually disappear after washing.<br>➖ 5 cm by adding darts: Darts can slim down the shirt. If darts already exist, deepening them further can remove up to 2 cm.

Hips

➖ Reduction: A tailor can narrow the shirt’s hips by taking in the side seams.

Back Length

➖ Reduction: A tailor can shorten the shirt’s back length. Note: This can place the last button very close to the bottom hem, which isn’t always visually appealing.

Sleeves

➖ Shortening: Sleeves can be shortened by 1–2 cm. For more significant reductions, the sleeve placket may need to be repositioned. It’s slightly more complex but achievable by a skilled tailor.

Collar

➕/➖ 1 cm by moving the button: Quick adjustment, but may cause unwanted folds.

Waist

➕ Up to 2 cm total by expanding the back seam.<br>➖ Up to 2 cm total by taking in the back seam. Larger reductions can distort the trouser shape.

Hips

➕ Up to 1 cm total by adjusting the back seam.<br>➖ Up to 2 cm total by taking in the back seam.

Knee

➕/➖ 1 cm: Avoid significant narrowing to maintain comfort.

Leg opening

➕/➖ 1 cm: Always stay above 17 cm (or minimum 16 cm if shoe size < 43).

Inseam

➕ Increase: 4 cm for Wool and Smart trousers, 1 cm for Chinos. With a cuffed hem, you can gain up to 8 cm extra.<br>➖ Reduction: Easy shortening possible.

Waist and Hips

➖ Up to 2 cm total by taking in the back seam.

Knee and Leg opening

➖ Up to 1 cm: Technically more is possible, but could compromise comfort.

Inseam

➖ Reduction: Shortening is straightforward.