Elastic on First Wested? And more...

[elstevo]

Hallo! I'm about to buy my first Wested (and first leather, at that!), and I've been stalking this forum for some time. I know for sure that I'll get the Raiders Authentic Lamb, and I'm pretty sure that I'm going to leave it as-is (without optional additions), but I'm not too sure. Can you guys help?

1). Elastic -- I read the poll that Peter asked Michelson to post, but most of the responses only dealt with whether it should be standard or optional, not if people prefer them or not. Should I get it if I'd like this jacket to look great for a long time? Also, how "hidden" is it?

2). Gussets -- I'm thinking of leaving these off. While I'll probably wear the jacket every day, I don't plan on knocking out any Nazis anytime soon. I figure that if I tell Peter that I take a 42R (my normal jacket size), but I'd like some extra sweater room, and if I measure the sleeves down to the first thumb knuckle, and get the satin sleeves, I should be okay with arm movement. Sound reasonable?

3). Measurements -- I went to a tailor & forgot to bring Peter's exact requests, so he measured my sleeve length from my spine to my first thumb knuckle. D'oh! I also didn't do the "three fingers under the tape" thing. So, I'm thinking of having my fiancee measure me. Is that okay, or should it be best left to a tailor? For the sleeves we'd do from the shoulder seam on a shirt I like. Also, do I really need to go all-out and measure my back to my waist, my neck, etc.? Some of the posts I've read are from people who seem to have gotten great fits just by giving Peter an off-the-rack size & no measurements at all.

Thanks so much for the help, guys & gals! I know half of these questions have been posted in similar ways before, but you know how everybody feels like their questions are just a tad more specific. I'm REALLY excited to get this Wested & I'll be sure to post some pics when it comes!!

Have fun,
ElStevo

[Ken]

Well I have owned two Westeds in my time - the first was several years ago before all the recent developments (ie - elastic and gussets). Problems with this Wested, the action pleats at the back staying open. Also I asked for a roomy fit and thats was what eventually made me get another Wested - it just felt to big on me.

The new Wested I got late last year - elastic. Fixes the action pleat problem perfectly. I also asked for the 1980s slimmer fit (although its still a little larger than I would like - I think I will talk to Peter about this). I got gussets as well just because at the time I wanted all the mods that were going - to be honest I dont notice any difference but it does no harm and if you dont get them you may find yourself wanting them later and then its too late. But its up to you.

Good luck with the whole process. the first jacket is a very nerve racking process but then when you open it and it fits you're over the moon. And if worst comes to the worst and it doesnt fit right, Peter will fix it for you. so dont worry!

Ken

[Jens]

1). Elastic -- I read the poll that Peter asked Michelson to post, but most of the responses only dealt with whether it should be standard or optional, not if people prefer them or not. Should I get it if I'd like this jacket to look great for a long time? Also, how "hidden" is it?

The elastics are "hidden" behind the liner, you can't see them (only feel them). And yes, the open action pleats are no longer a problem

[elstevo]

p.s.-- Michaelson, sorry for the dropped 'a.'

[Michaelson]

No problem. I do it all the time! Regards. MichAelson

[elstevo]

And yes, the open action pleats are no longer a problem

Does that mean that the action pleats have been changed so that you don't even need the elastics?

[Jens]

Oh, NO! Sorry for the misunderstanding. I wanted to say: With the elastics added the action pleats won't stay open anymore ...

-- Jens

[elstevo]

Great! So, I'll probably opt for the elastic on the action pleats. I'm still undecided on the gussets, though.

Howabout all of the crazy measurements outside of sleeve & chest (i.e., back length, etc.)? Necessary? And thoughts on the trustiness of a fiancee-measured sleeve?

[IndianaGuybrush]

The most important thing is to tell Peter how is was measured. In other words, watch when your fiance measures it and then when you give the value to Peter make sure to tell him exactly how it was done. there are directions on the Wested website on how to generally measure sleeve, back, etc...