Sleeves + How to Determine Correct Fit

DIY Coat | Aritzia Top (similar) | UO Jeans (similar) | Aldo Earrings | Pour La Victoire Wedge (RTTS)

 This coat is actually a blue version of my red coat that I made last winter. I've been wearing it during semi-cooler nights during the last couple of months. The self fabric is a very thin wool and the lining is a silky soft satin; I love putting it on because it feels so good against my skin! I also made changes to the original pattern after wearing my red coat and discovering a couple of fit issues. I noticed while driving, the sleeves prevented my arms from moving freely. Initially, I thought the sleeves were too tight and made the sleeves bigger, but that didn't help. Next, I thought I needed more ease (room) in the back bodice...that helped a little, but didn't give my arms total mobility and movement that I wanted. Finally, I realized the armholes were too low! So I raised the armholes and that totally solved the issue. Besides slimming or shortening the sleeves, other alterations for sleeves are probably the most difficult thing to deal with. So if you are trying a garment with sleeve issues (besides shortening/slimming), I'd probably advise against buying unless you have an amazing tailor.

Here are a few things you can do to test if the sleeves fit well. While wearing the garment, hug someone (or yourself if there's no one else with you lol) and raise your arms. If you feel restricted while doing these movements, then the sleeves are not fitting right. With your arms to your sides, the sleeves should hang pretty straight. If the sleeves are twisting, then it's not fitting correctly or it could have been sewn in incorrectly.

Shop Similar Blue Coats

Left | Middle | Right