Nov. 13, 2013 6:12 p.m. ET
Q: My late uncle who was a sharp dresser back in the day, left a trunk full of nice clothes, from the 1960s and '70s, including two tweed sport coats that were high quality, maybe even tailor made for him. One jacket has slightly wide lapels and is really unusual (maybe was used for riding?) because of the higher armholes. I need to replace the horn buttons that are cracked. The other jacket needs a new half lining. I think I want to try elbow patches. They both are really wrinkled and need a hard press. Are they worth the effort to restore them?
—K.T., Indianapolis
A: Let's hear it for those vintage sport coats that are still wearable, especially family heirlooms that carry so much meaning. But unlike antique oak that gains a burnished patina over time, fabrics can oxidize and textiles are subject to dry rot. Not to mention those moth holes that can often be rewoven by specialists.
The jackets you unearthed seem to be sturdy and in decent shape. They were probably cleaned and carefully stored long ago—never in plastic bags, which emit gases that can break down fibers. Find a skilled tailor to give you an estimate on the cost to have them refurbished, as well as professionally cleaned and pressed. If the job is extensive, consider getting another estimate and don't be shy about quizzing the tailor on what exactly he will do. Lapels can be narrowed and customized for you. Ask the tailor for examples so you can gauge how far you can go.
Do go scouting for better, more interesting buttons. How about the leather-knotted buttons or horn buttons from resources such as M&J Trimming (mjtrim.com[1] )?
Regarding elbow patches, standard brown suede is only the beginning. Jackfoxley.com[2] has leather, suede, ultra suede and waxed cotton elbow patches in standard sizes for $16 a pair in an array of shades, while Domesticleather.com[3] offers lambskin leather elbow patches. I even spotted $7 leather elbow patches on Overstock.com. Be creative as you splurge to refurbish your inherited jackets.
Tweed jackets are highly versatile with everything: pants in gray flannel, dark navy and hunter green corduroy, not to mention dark denims and even khakis. Vary from the usual professional turtlenecks and button downs, with Henley shirts and cashmere hoodies.
Layer on scarves—woven, paisley silks—and pocket squares too! Don't forget the thinnest pigskin gloves to complete your vintage look.
—Send questions to askteri@wsj.com
References
- ^ mjtrim.com (www.mjtrim.com)
- ^ Jackfoxley.com (www.Jackfoxley.com)
- ^ Domesticleather.com (www.Domesticleather.com)
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