1950s Sears Oakbrook D-Pocket Jacket

[Novos]

Hi all,

I bought a 1950s Sears Oakbrook d-pocket over a year ago, because I've always been keen on the d-pocket style, and this one tends to pop up a reasonable price. It also has some pretty neat detailing. But my question for you fine folks is about the fit. I like the jacket a lot from the front (I deleted the photo because I know it no longer fits there), but when I look at the back I'm not happy. It's a Jekyll and Hyde situation that has me unsure how to proceed.

The sleeves are bulgy. Also the "action back" seems a bit off, it puffs out all the time regardless of what I'm doing. I thought it may have to do with the weight I've gained, but it puffed out and looked odd even when the jacket fit 100% a year ago. I know the jacket doesn't quite fit as well as it once did. :eusa_doh:

But has anyone ever done any altering to these particular jackets, such as re-stitching the arms, stitching/gluing down the action back, or is this just crazy to even ask? I know finding a tailor in my area to do such a task would be difficult.

I know I have a lot of threads with a similar purpose, but I hate to sell stuff that I genuinely like but have an aspect that is a little off.

Take a look at the pics and let me know what you folks think.

 

[ButteMT61]

I'm at the point where I quit blaming the jackets. It's me that needs the alterations. Look at some catalogs - even crap clothes look good on a fit guy. I'm trying myself, but even with some improvement, I see the jackets will only look so good. I don't think that jacket is big enough for you from the front-facing shot. Do you have any others that you like that we could see?

 

[Stearmen]

I'm at the point where I quit blaming the jackets. It's me that needs the alterations. Look at some catalogs - even crap clothes look good on a fit guy. I'm trying myself, but even with some improvement, I see the jackets will only look so good. I don't think that jacket is big enough for you from the front-facing shot. Do you have any others that you like that we could see?

You and me both brother!

 

[Novos]

Very true all, and sound advice. Feel ashamed for this thread. Anyways, I guess it will be sold! Sometimes it just takes a kick in the butt.

Since the jacket is relatively common, I was hoping someone had a similar experience/gripe.

 

[ButteMT61]

Very true all. Feel ashamed for this thread. Anyways, I guess it will be sold! Sometimes it just takes a kick in the butt.

No no! Do not feel bad. I just think sometimes we - me included - expect a jacket to fix "us". Those old Sears type jackets are not too flattering. And if one is not in good shape, it will accentuate that. Trust me, I put jackets on and I get bummed out. 20 years ago I looked pretty darn good, but I worked hard at it. Now, I'm trying again, but it gets harder with age. Don't be bummed, but if it motivates you to do better, there's a few of us here doing just that. One guy lost a boatload of weight and looks nothing like he used to. Think positive. Sorry if I bummed you out.

 

[Novos]

Oh no, no worries! I was momentarily bummed, but what you say is sound. I guess I expect the jackets I have to grow with me , but that never seems to happen. It's a bit silly to try to alter a jacket so severely, regardless of how weird these Sears Oakbrook ones fit.

 

[Stearmen]

Don't be discouraged. As Butte said, a lot of us are trying to shed some of the tonnage we have put on. I think it fits fine. It's a motorcycle jacket, not NY cat walk jacket. Besides, if only models could wear jackets, all the leather companies in the world would have gone out of business decades ago!

 

[Worf]

One more voice of encouragement. Like Butte and others here I KNOW I don't have a body for form fitting leather... YET! But I look forward to the day I start selling off coats and jackets because they're too BIG. Hang in there guy and keep em flying!

Worf