Brunswick West & Collingwood / Fitzroy

Jacket & blazer alterations

A great jacket can make the whole outfit, as long as it fits. Bring yours in and we’ll look at the sleeves, body, lining and any repairs, then recommend the changes that will make the biggest difference.

What we can do

Sleeves and cuffs

We’ll shorten the sleeves, or check whether they can be lengthened, and keep the buttons, vents and lining looking right. Working buttonholes can limit where a sleeve can be shortened, so we’ll let you know.

Body fit and jacket length

Take in the body, let it out or change the overall length. Pockets, vents and the seam allowance decide what’s possible, and we’ll explain your options at the fitting.

Shoulders, collars and lapels

These parts give a jacket its shape, so changing them is bigger work. We’ll look at how yours is built and walk you through it before you decide.

Relining and repairs

A torn lining, broken zip, missing button or worn patch doesn’t mean giving up on a jacket you love. A repair can keep it in your wardrobe for years.

Coats and outerwear

From winter coats to rain jackets, we alter outerwear for a better fit while keeping it warm and weatherproof. Denim jackets, formal blazers and leather jackets are all welcome.

How much does it cost?

Lining, shoulder structure, buttonholes, vents and the number of seams involved all affect the price.

Indicative jacket & blazer alterations prices · AUD, including GST
AlterationIndicative price
Shorten jacket sleevesGeneral jackets. Tailored suit sleeves and shoulder work are quoted separately.Extras
  • Working buttonholes on suit sleeves +$30–$60 (2 to 8 holes)
$45–$90
Replace a jacket zipLining, zip length and construction affect the work involved.$60–$115

These are guides for the named alteration on one garment, not fixed quotes or maximum prices. Listed extras are added to the guide price and can be combined. Fabric, finish, construction and any other extra work can change the price, so we’ll always check your garment and confirm the quote before we start. Express surcharges are extra.

Price guide reviewed 20 October 2026.

What goes into a jacket alteration

Sleeves, vents and working buttonholes

We look at the sleeve length together with the cuff, lining and buttons. Decorative buttons and working buttonholes limit how a sleeve can be shortened, and sometimes the change is better made at the shoulder, which is a separate alteration. The sleeve price guide above is for general jackets, not every tailored jacket.

Body length, shoulders and relining

Taking in a jacket usually means the back and side seams. Changing the shoulders, lapels or collar is bigger, structural work. Shortening the body changes the balance of the pockets, vents and fastenings, so we’ll talk it through before cutting anything. Fits well but the lining’s worn out? Bring it in for a repair or a new lining instead.

Your questions

Can any jacket be resized?

Not every one. The structure, seam allowance and pocket placement set the limits. We’ll tell you honestly what will work for your jacket.

Do you alter leather jackets?

Yes. Leather needs a slightly different approach, so bring the jacket in and see our leather and suede page for what to expect.

Can you alter a vintage jacket or blazer?

We’d love to see it! We’ll check the fabric, lining and any earlier alterations. Tell us what you want to keep, such as a label, the original buttons or the overall shape.

Can a zip be repaired instead of replaced?

Sometimes, if the problem is just the slider or the stitching that holds the zip. Other damage means a new zip. We’ll take a look and recommend the right fix. Repairs and replacements are priced separately.

Can I shorten jacket sleeves myself?

The lining, vents and buttonholes make it trickier than a simple hem, and it’s easy to cut away fabric you need for the finish. Leave it to us, especially for tailored or sentimental pieces.

How long will the work take, and is express available?

Most simple jobs are ready in 3–5 days, and more complex work in 1–2 weeks. In a rush? Express options are available for an extra fee. Just tell us your deadline. Express rates are 30% for same-day, 20% for next-day and 10% for two-day work, or 40% for same-day and 30% for next-day on Saturdays. Express depends on how busy we are, so we’ll confirm it and your pickup time before we start.

Visit your local Alter Ego

Two shops, no appointment needed. Bring it in and talk it through with the team.

Find your local Alter Ego