I have a soft spot for old blazers. There’s something about the structure, the way a blazer can make even a simple jeans-and-tee outfit look considered, that keeps me hunting thrift racks and wardrobe cast-offs. But more often than not, those vintage or budget blazers need a little love to feel modern and flattering. Over the years I’ve learned a few tailoring tricks that turn a so-so blazer into one I reach for weekly. Below I share practical hacks I use myself, and one single hem alteration that, when done right, transforms the entire fit.
First: assess what’s actually wrong
Before you pin, cut or rush to a dry cleaner, take a moment to try the blazer on and look at it from different angles. Ask yourself:
Pinpointing the specific issue makes the rest of the process much simpler—and cheaper.
Small tailoring hacks that make a big difference
These are my go-to, relatively inexpensive fixes. I tend to try them in this order because they’re the least invasive and often all that’s needed.
The one hem alteration that transforms fit
If I had to pick one single alteration that consistently makes an old blazer feel new again, it’s shortening the body length by 2–4 cm (about ¾–1½ inches). This small adjustment is subtle but pivotal. Why? Because proportion is everything: a slightly shorter blazer sits better with modern high-rise jeans, tailored trousers, and midi skirts. It creates the illusion of a higher waist, a neater shoulder-to-hip line, and instantly modernizes a dated silhouette.
How to decide how much to take off: try the blazer with the pieces you plan to wear most often. If it covers your bottom or hits the widest part of your hip, nudge it up. For petite frames, even 3 cm makes a huge difference. For taller bodies, aim for a balance where the blazer still provides coverage but doesn’t overwhelm the outfit.
Important: ask your tailor to take the hem evenly from front and back and to adjust the vent(s) so the blazer sits properly when you move. If the lining isn’t shortened as part of the job, you’ll end up with an awkward inner hem—so insist they do it right. A professional will also preserve any topstitching or edge detail so the finish looks intentional.
Practical before-you-go-to-the-tailor checklist
Save yourself time (and avoid unnecessary alterations) by bringing this checklist to your appointment:
DIY tweaks for the brave
If you’re comfortable with a sewing machine there are a couple of simple things you can do at home:
But for body length alterations I usually recommend a pro unless you have experience with tailored garments. Getting the hemline even, preserving the facing, and dealing with vents are all worth a small fee.
What to expect on price and timing
Prices vary by region and tailor, but here’s a rough guide (UK-based):
| Alteration | Typical cost | Time |
| Move/add button | £8–£20 | Same day–a few days |
| Taper sides | £25–£60 | 2–7 days |
| Sleeve shortening | £20–£45 | 2–7 days |
| Shorten body hem (including lining & vent) | £40–£90 | 3–10 days |
These are ballpark figures; always ask for an estimate and a timeline. For vintage or delicate fabrics, the price can be higher but worth it if the piece has good bones.
Final styling tips after the alterations
Revamping an old blazer doesn’t have to be dramatic or expensive. With a few thoughtful tailoring hacks—and often just one modest hem adjustment—you can keep the pieces you love in regular rotation and give them a fresh, wearable life. If you’ve got a blazer in need of rescue, I’d love to hear what’s putting you off wearing it and help you decide which tweak will make the biggest difference.
