Tailoring a Vintage Blazer: Lessons Learned

Finding vintage blazers is like a treasury hunt everyone should go on at some point (well kind of, I supposed). I used to do this when I first started working and was trying to build out a complex wardrobe quickly without completely breaking the bank. I learned a lot through the process, about fits, styles and brands, so I figured I would share some quick insight into the process.

Pictured here is a vintage Canali blazer, it's a magnificent wool and cashmere blend. I picked up this blazer knowing what I would have to invest into it for it to even be wearable. I had the tailor do the basics: width and sleeves. In addition, he had to narrow the shoulders and shorten the collar area in the back. Needlesstosay, it was an expensive visit to the tailor.

What I did learn from this is that you cannot completely change the original structure of the blazer (which is fairly obvious). Do I love this blazer? To be completely honest, I used to, but I really haven't worn it much for two main reasons:

The sleeves are still very wide, as I didn't have those narrowed.
The VERY wide, notch lapels are very low on this jacket (i.e. it's essentially a very old school look)

Overall, you can pay a tailor to do whatever you want him/her to do to a vintage blazer, but the overall structure, look and feel is not going to change. My advice would just be to think twice before you invest money into having a blazer altered. Perhaps do some additional research about the lapels (this will give you insight into the age and general style of the blazer), the material and the brand. And, as always, feel free to reach out if you want a second opinion!

What do you think of the blazer?