Ask the Tailor: Are High Cut Armholes Important?

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Each month we ask our expert tailors to address one of your most frequent questions. This month we’re talking about high cut armholes. Read on to find out what they are and why they might matter to you.

In bespoke tailoring, it’s all about the cut. A good cut will determine how well your suit fits you, how comfortable it is, and how flattering it is. 

There are certain techniques your tailor will be able to use to ensure your suit is the perfect fit for you. One of those techniques is how high or low the armholes are cut into the body of the jacket. 

What are high cut armholes?

The high cut armhole is a traditional tailoring feature that’s becoming increasingly rare. It refers to where the arm hole is cut in the shoulders of a jacket. A low cut armhole gives more space under the armpit, while a high cut armhole tends to sit much more snugly to the shoulder.

What are the benefits of a high cut armhole?

There are a number of great benefits to a high cut armhole. Firstly, a high cut armhole gives the wearer far more flexibility of movement in the arms. When you’re wearing a jacket with high cut armholes, you’ll be able to lift your arms up without the body of the jacket coming with them. 

High cut armholes can also be more flattering, especially in slimmer cut jackets as they can be cut much closer to the body than jackets with low cut armholes. 

Are there any downsides? 

The only downside of high cut armholes is that a jacket can’t be ‘shrugged’ on and off. This is the main benefit of low cut armholes, and is why they’ve become the norm in recent decades.

However, if you think taking a moment or two longer to put on your jacket is worth greater flexibility and fit once you’re wearing it, why not talk to us about using this cutting technique for your next jacket?

Next month we’ll be asking our tailors to tell us all about curved cuts and why they make a difference. Sign up to our newsletter to make sure you don’t miss it.