Jackets: sleeves too long, sleeves too short!

Jacket 1
I've wanted a lightweight bomber all year. But because I obsess about silly things, I wanted it to be wool suiting fabric. And then I found one just like that, by DKNY, and not only that, but it's a CAPE! Or a cape/jacket hybrid. I stalked it, bought one at a discount that was a size too big, returned it, and gave up months ago.

Then last week I wandered into the Rack when I should have been preparing for my interview, and I found it. In my size. For way less than anywhere else. Amazing! And it fits, and it is oh so cool. But I'm really not sure I should keep it for two reasons:

1. It's a statement item, and some of my statements never get used. They're too specific for daily use. But in this case I think it works well with any sleeveless top and jeans (my usual)? Still, I might be better off getting the cheap, stylish Uniqlo jacket (in finds) instead - or maybe I'd never wear that because it's too basic!

2. The sleeves are too long, as usual. They look great when my arms are through the cape slits (photos 1 & 2), but they look silly worn as sleeves (photo 3). Do you think a good tailor could shorten the sleeves? Also, I hate the feeling of ribbed cuffs on my wrists (...weird quirk) so maybe I'd just keep my arms out of the sleeves.

Jacket 2
This cropped moto jacket from Madewell... the salesgirl thought it was great on me, because my arms are so short that the cropped sleeves are almost normal. But you and I know that the sleeves are actually 1-2" too short and I think it just looks a little off? Not intentional enough. I didn't buy it but I snapped some photos for inspiration -- I think the cropped waist might actually be a good fit for me, but I don't usually consider it. (Those are my R13 crossover jeans, and the extra volume in front looks extra funny with the cropped jacket.)

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11 Comments

  • Tisa replied 7 years ago

    I agree with your assessments. A good taylor will tell you what to do about the sleeves. In my opinion shortening them shouldn't be a problem. How does the jacket look on you when you close the zip?
    The cropped leather jacket is lovely and it suits you so well. It's a pity the sleeves are too short.

  • Karie replied 7 years ago

    A good tailor should be able to shorten the sleeves for you, as long as there are no buttons/buttonholes in the way. I agree with your assessment of jacket #2, the sleeves are at that awkward spot where they don't look long enough to be full length or short enough to be intentional. But I wonder if that length could be considered bracelet length?

  • approprio replied 7 years ago

    My opinion? The bomber is gorgeous. It's a statement for sure, but one of those statements that flies under the radar. Much as I love Uniqlo, their bomber is pretty basic by comparison.

    I see what you mean about the sleeves and I can think of a few possible solutions, but I'd only go ahead if it doesn't change the character of the garment too much.

    If you love it and the alterations are possible, I think you might find it's a bit of a workhorse. I can see it working with a long-sleeved tee for a subtle look. 

  • lyn67 replied 7 years ago

    I dunno about altzerations, as nr 3 is a little off indeed, but it depends on your industry/career. If it is a creative on then nr 1 is the way to go! I love the double use of the cape bomber and would use it not only on bare skin arms but with any contrast colored long sleeve tee(or shirt/blouse).

  • Janet replied 7 years ago

    The DKNY bomber is amazing, and the Uniqlo one just doesn't have the same impact. I bet the sleeves could be altered without much difficulty. The moto is nice but I agree the sleeve length is awkward.

  • Sara L. replied 7 years ago

    The DKNY bomber is great.  Although it's a statement piece, it actually seems like it would be practical enough for everyday wear.  If you're going to have a tailor adjust the sleeve length, maybe they could do a different cuff that wouldn't bother you?

  • Angie replied 7 years ago

    I LOVE the Madwell moto with the cropped sleeves. Looks bracelet length and intentional. Beautifully tailored. And since you wear black most of the time - the sleeve layers look fab. Go get it!

    I'm less in love with the cape, but it does look good. Find out if you can get the sleeves shortened. 

  • Diana replied 7 years ago

    I like the cape/bomber! It's really unique. I would check with a good tailor (so, not the person at the dry cleaners) about the sleeves. I wonder if, since you don't like the ribbed cuffs anyway, they could remove them entirely and replace them with a shorter, more comfortable cuff. It seems doable.

    I have super poison eye (and poison feel) for bracelet sleeves so will refrain from commenting on the madewell moto.

  • Greyscale replied 7 years ago

    Tisa, I think it looks quite good zipped up. It is really exactly my size, and zipping it smooths out some of the bunching at the complicated shoulders. 

    Approprio, "statement that flies under the radar" is exactly my style - I think you're right. And I like the idea of wearing it over a long-sleeve tee for a subtle effect.

    Lyn67, my industry isn't exactly creative but close enough - I'm a scientist at a university. So I have a lot of leeway in what I wear as long as it's casual. (I wear jeans daily.) Good point that the cape-sleeve effect in 1-2 is a little edgier and might stand out a little.

    Angie, I'm glad you approve of the biker jacket. I think I'll go back and take more careful photos. I've been searching for a new biker jacket for years, but it needs to be just right. The appeal of this one is the fit -- it's so rare for me to find one that fits my shoulders without being too big elsewhere.

    Sara and Diana, I like the idea of replacing the cuffs entirely, maybe a self-fabric elastic cuff. I'm not sure there will be quite enough fabric to do that, but I can ask.

    I do have a fantastic tailor. I went by his shop today but he was closed for family reasons. I'll try again tomorrow. I also need to hem a pair of jeans I bought months ago and haven't been able to wear yet because of the length.

  • Angie replied 7 years ago

    The moto REALLY is a Killer fit. 

  • Jaime replied 7 years ago

    I like them both so am no help there. You could actually have the moto sleeves shortened a bit so it looks more intentional, if that bothers you.

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