(How difficult is it to get somethinbg around a size 40 when you ASK for a size 40?)
Well, it is difficult, especially when you are trying to create a screen-accurate look on 5'1" people with a 40" chest to 6'1" people with a 40" chest. This is the dilemma. If I were making sweat shirts, it wouldn't matter.
My original thought was to simply scale the whole jacket up and down - pockets, collar, sleeve, everything proportionally. I'm re-thinking that now. That will work on some people but not on all. IB's jacket would probably look right on someone 6'4" (and I will need to fit 6'4" people like Dr. Seuss) but on IB some things look out of whack.
Perhaps my system will work, but sizes will have to be chosen based on height as well as width. For instance, IB jacket might indeed be proportional to his chest, but not his height. Therefore, he should go with a smaller size that is proportionally tighter around the chest, but better fitting on the shoulders, neck and arms. At any rate, bear with me while these things get worked out - this is a new venture for me and I'm learning as I go.
The pockets don't look centered about the storm flap, and the side
straps look very long.
You are right about the pockets. This is one of those screen accurate features that some people won't like.
I'm looking at the side straps again. Problem is, the straps are long enough to allow the sides to open all the way (for people with larger waists). However, when they are cranked down for thinner people, there is a lot of excess strap. Two solutions: find the fit you like, and then trim the straps. A seamstress can do it easily or I can provide instructions. Otherwise, I can cut them to your waist size.
As for buckles, we are still sourcing those. Haven't found the perfect ones yet. I'll probably have to have them made. I'll try to provide some prongs for an easy retrofit for those of you who would like them.