How to Make a Waistcoat

By Leena Muley and Alan Chow, students at Central Saint Martins

Work doesn't have to mean hot, stifling clothes. An old suit jacket can make a great waistcoat for a sassy new summer look - without shelling out for a bank-balance-busting new work wardrobe. Here's how to turn your old jacket into a waistcoat.

Step One: Measure Arms

Measure 2.5cm from the bottom of the armhole and 2.5cm away from the edge of the shoulder pad at the top of the armhole.

Step Two: Cut Arms

Cut the sleeve off the jacket. Overlock or zigzag stitch around the raw edge.

Step Three: Sew Seams

Turn jacket inside out. Fold seam allowance inside along the armhole seam and pin into place. If the pad extends over the seam, fold it right up against the shoulder pad. Hand-sew the edge of the seam to the lining. Repeat on other arm.

Step Four: Add Trimming

Pin a strip of trimming of your choice around the arm hole - make sure that the beginning and end of the trimming meet at the side seam line. Hand sew the trimmings around the armhole to just the top layer of jacket fabric.