Help with Droopy Apron

[Arnot]

I had an inquiry from a local pipe major regarding a kilt with a droopy apron. As can be seen in the photos, there is a saggy bit in the middle. It's there with or without a sporran. I took his measurements and compared them to the measurements of the kilt. The waist was okay, but the hips were quite a bit off. I calculated the measurements for how wide the apron should be at the hip and the pleat section as well. The apron was about right, but the pleat section was about 3 inches too wide. It looks like the hip buckle was just stuck on below the waist buckle instead of measuring.

I have a couple of questions if I may:

1. Am I correct in assuming that, to do it correctly, I would have to alter the pleats from both sides?

2. Is this the only way to do it? I basically don't want to make a bigger job of it than it needs to be. I don't want it to be a situation where it's cheaper for the pipe major, or nearly so, to have another kilt made.

Any assistance will be greatly appreciated.