Can leather jackets be resized?

A common question

Perhaps you have inherited a leather jacket, found one second-hand, or your own has become a little too roomy. It is natural to ask whether it can be made to fit. The honest answer is: sometimes, within limits.

Why leather is different

Woven fabric can be unpicked and re-sewn with little trace. Leather cannot. Each needle hole stays visible, so an old seam line will show if a seam is moved outwards. Leather is also thicker, so seams are bulkier and more difficult to reshape. This is why leather alterations must be planned carefully.

What is often possible

Depending on the jacket's construction, these changes can be realistic:

• Taking in the side seams or back seam modestly.
• Shortening sleeves, particularly if the cuff is simple.
• Replacing the lining at the same time.
• Replacing zips and press studs.
• Adjusting the hem on some straight-cut jackets.

What is difficult

Letting out a leather jacket is rarely possible, as the old stitch line would be visible and there is seldom spare leather in the seam. Changing shoulders, collars or quilted and panelled areas can be very complex. Lengthening sleeves is not usually achievable without adding new leather, which may not match.

Making the decision

Bring the jacket to Golden Button on Bargates in Christchurch and try it on. Dorota will look at the seams, lining and leather and explain what would look right. Sometimes the best advice is a small change rather than a large one, or to leave the jacket as it is.