Doublet alteration?

[KiltFitz]

I've read a couple of posts along similar lines with responses in the negative but I thought this might be a slightly different situation:

I have a regulation doublet from tartanweb which I got a few years and about 3 stone in weight ago. It is a size 52 inch chest and I am now somewhere between a 54 and 56 meaning it is a bit tight and displays too much waist.

Since it is composed of a number of panels however (more than an argyll or PC), and the adjustment not too dramatic I have been hoping that I might be able to have it expanded somehow maybe with the addition of a centre-panel at the back? There is an overlap with the flaps which should be able to accomodate such an addition but is this even possible?

I would appreciate any input on this.

Here's a few pics of said garment:


2013-02-26 15.35.34.jpg2013-02-26 15.47.10.jpg2013-02-26 15.48.21.jpg2013-02-26 15.48.46.jpg

Thanks for reading

Fitz

[Chas]

I don't know that putting a panel in the back would work. Most male expansion is at the front ...

Regards

Chas

[CMcG]

As a general rule, it is easier for a tailor to make clothing smaller than it is for them to make it larger. There is also the fact that most often off-the-rack clothing is made with a minimum of waste. If you are lucky there might be enough extra material in the jacket to go up a half size. Depending on the cost, though, it is probably more economical to sell this doublet and buy a another one (second hand or ex-hire).

Your cheapest -- and healthiest -- option, is to lose a few stone

[Phil]

I can only suggest you try these people - http://www.stewart-christie.com/ - they are highly competent tailors and if anyone can alter it, they can. If not they will at least break the bad news to you at no cost. The problem with inserting a gusset as you describe is matching the original cloth in weave and shade otherwise it will stick out like a sore thumb.

[KiltFitz]

Thank you for the input gentlemen. I would leave to lose a few stone but it's not happening even with some lifestyle alteration, therefore I'm forced to seek other alteration, namely tailoring.

I will be in Edinburgh this weekend, so I will drop in and have a chat with them. Thanks in particualr for that recommendation.

Fitz

[KiltFitz]

Success! I recently bought a Lochcarron argyll jacket ex-hire which needs sleeves shortened. Took the doublet with me (experienced kiltmaker and alteration place nr Glasgow). She looked doubtful but when the lining was peeled back, turns out there is enough material for an increase in size. 3 button waistcoat will need new back but that's not a problem apparently.

Quite reasonable too (a tenth of the cost of a new jacket and waistcoat). Argyll sleeves no problem will be ready in a couple of days.

So pleased was I, that I ordered a made to measure 5 button vest too!