Suit Alterations and Tailoring
Cost guides, expert advice, and verified suit tailoring specialists across the United States.
What Does a Suit Alteration Specialist Do?
A suit alteration specialist adjusts the fit of jackets and trousers to match your body rather than a generic size template. The most common suit alterations are trouser hemming ($20–$50), sleeve shortening ($30–$80), and waist suppression ($35–$90). A full suit alteration package typically costs $85–$220 and takes 5–14 days.
Always buy a suit that fits in the shoulders first — this is the one area that cannot easily be changed. Everything else, from the waist to the trouser break, can be adjusted by a skilled tailor. Use the AlterationsFinder directory to find a suit tailoring specialist with verified reviews near you.
What Does Suit Tailoring Cost?
National average price ranges for common suit alterations
Trouser Hem
$20 to $50
Average $30
Sleeve Shortening
$30 to $80
Average $50
Waist Suppression
$35 to $90
Average $55
Taking In
$40 to $110
Average $65
Trouser Waist
$35 to $90
Average $55
Shoulder Adjustment
$60 to $175
Average $100
Most suits need trouser hem, sleeve shortening, and waist suppression. Budget $85 to $220 total. Get a personalised estimate.
Suit Tailoring Guides
Everything you need to know about suit alterations
Loading guides…
The Golden Rule of Buying a Suit
Always buy the suit that fits best in the shoulders. The shoulder seam must sit exactly at the edge of your shoulder. Everything else — sleeves, waist, trouser length — can be fixed by a tailor. Shoulders that do not fit are expensive to correct.
Find a Suit Tailoring Specialist
Browse verified specialists with experience in suit alterations and tailoring
Loading specialists...
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to get a suit tailored?+
Most suits need trouser hemming, sleeve shortening, and waist suppression. These three alterations together typically cost $85 to $220 depending on location. Individual alterations range from $20 for a trouser hem to $175 for shoulder adjustment.
Which part of a suit should fit off the rack?+
The shoulders must fit correctly off the rack. Everything else can be adjusted by a tailor. Buy the suit that fits best in the shoulders, then have the rest tailored to your measurements.
How long does suit tailoring take?+
A trouser hem takes 3 to 5 days. Multiple alterations on jacket and trousers typically take 7 to 14 days. Allow two weeks minimum for important occasions.
Is it worth tailoring an expensive suit?+
Yes. Even an expensive suit looks poor if it does not fit. Tailoring a suit that fits well in the shoulders costs $85 to $220 and transforms how it looks and feels.