Cheap MTM suit from Afghanistan -- can it be salvaged?

[Acer]

I picked up a super cheap MTM suit from the locals in Afghanistan the last time I was there and, well, I got what I paid for. It's a 3 piece light gray w/ a black windowpane pattern. I wasn't expecting a whole lot, but I would like to have something at least wearable out of this experience. If I don't, then it's just a conversation piece that will take up space in my closet--whatever. Here are the problems as I see them: Jacket issues: 1) Jacket shoulders are 1.25" too wide 2) Jacket shoulders have a LOT of padding, and it feels really cheap 3) There is no extra layer under the collar / top of lapel (usually felt, I think?) to give it structure 4) It's about 2 inches too big in the chest and waist Waistcoat issues: 1) About 2 inches too large in chest and waist 2) Seems a bit long--ends about 1.5" past where the bottom of my belt stops Pants issues: Ordered no cuffs--he put cuffs on them. I guess they'll be ok.

I'm mostly worried about the jacket shoulders. The width makes my head look tiny! Also, a curveball: there are no tailors in my area as far as I can tell (Fort Walton Beach, FL). There are alterations shops (military town), but they look at you funny if you bring in civilian clothes. Also, I took a cheap linen SC in to be altered, and the lady asked me why I didn't have the bottom button buttoned. Done with that. As far as I know, the only place that could handle this work (if it can be done) is JAB. And even then, I don't know if they would alter a suit that I didn't buy there. Suggestions? edit: pics on top of page 2

 

[orlagu]

I say put a Osama Bin Laden mask on the suit and use it as shooting/knife throwing target, since to me it sounds fubar already.

 

[MikeDT]

Originally Posted by orlagu

I say put a Osama Bin Laden mask on the suit and use it as shooting/knife throwing target, since to me it sounds fubar already.

+1

I don't think one will find any good tailors in Afghanistan. Savile Row and Milan, yes. Kabul, no.

 

[austerlitz]

definitely
FUBAR

 

[alexanduh]

doesnt seem like much to salvage. if it isnt put together well to begin with, why bother tailoring. quality of the fabric is also something to consider.

 

[GBR]

Photographs would have helped but trash or burning it both seem good remedies from the description.

 

[MasterW]

Originally Posted by GBR

Photographs would have helped but trash or burning it both seem good remedies from the description.

Yes a picture would have or could definitely help to better understand the problem, as well as provide some solutions or propositions.

I hope you will put up some photos soon.

 

[CYstyle]

the cost to attempt to salvage would be more than it's worth, plus it will still not fit right. keep the pants if they fit, toss the rest.

 

[pvrhye]

With no tailor around, it's grim. Pics would be very helpful.

 

[Acer]

I'll throw some pics in the OP when I get back from work -- prepare for comedy. And I'd be comfortable spending up to about $150ish at a tailor if he could fix the jacket. I could easily spend that much and still come out way ahead, as long as it looks presentable. Hell, I could spend $200+ at a tailor and still feel alright about it

 

[Tuesday]

Why throw good money after bad?

 

[noxlord]

Was it the Taylor on the boardwalk in KAF ??
I am surprised you didn't mention incredibly low armhole ...

 

[Acer]

Nah it was at BAF--the guy off disney, not at the BX. And I would like to wear this suit, if I can get it to fit. I like the fabric a lot, and I'd like to have a light gray suit in my inventory. I'd also like to have a cheap beater suit, and this would definitely fit the bill..

 

[clee1982]

you're basically recutting everything..., don't do it. What's your size, if you wait on B&S long enough, you can probably find beater less than 200 for condition better than this...

 

[DerekS]

if it was great fabric, its still gonnabe rough to fix. Shoulders are expensive. And unless you have a good tailor, can be easily f*cked up.

Just dont buy suits in afghanistan.