I don't look like an egg (Humpty Dumpty) in the mirror, but I still need SUSPENDERS!

[CBH]

I had a similar dilemma just weeks ago.

I had noticed my pants are looser than before. I also have a denim utility kilt that is looser. I always had to adjust the straps to the tightest setting, but after wearing it just a couple of times most recently (with the denim stretching, just as it does with jeans), it would not stay on. I had to change out of it by the end of the day.

I have not made a conscience effort to be thinner, and I really don't think my total weight has dropped much, if any. I just re-measured, and the most it has "shrunk" is 1/2" or less.

I posted about my new Houston 8 yard kilt that I got just in time for the wedding last week. Unfortunately, it was far too large right out of the box.

So I contacted Houston and they recommended simply moving the straps/buckles with a local seamstress. I found someone that could handle the thick leather straps. It ultimately fixed my problem, but it was not without incident. They did it wrong the first 2 times, and finally ended up making final adjustments while I was there and could try it out. I only moved the straps, as I thought moving the buckles would be far more invasive and could ruin the look.

While both kilts fit now, the straps don't fit exactly the same between right and left sides. So be sure to check that and be prepared to get it re-done a few times.

I also did my own measurements and provided them, so it is funny how the exact same size (36") can be made so differently. It is also a bit frustrating because that is arguably the only measurement that's crucial for a kilt, and to top it off - the strap/buckle system has adjustability built into the core design !!

I only made about 2" total adjustment on mine. The problem I faced is overlap between the underlying apron and the buckle. If I had not had the total alteration done so that I am using only the first or second hole in the strap, I don't know if it would have worked well.

Good luck finding a good alteration shop. Of course they won't understand kilts, so you'll have to be patient. I did not know what to look for either, so I was very grateful they were willing to go through trial-and-error to get it (mostly) right.

PS - all my current kilts are cut for the low/pants waist. I have one coming later this year that is supposed to be made with the traditional, higher cut.