Actually tried it on again, and it's not as bad

I tried it on again, seriously this time, and it only gaps about 2-3" in front at the hem. I still would like an extra inch or two for ease, so the question still remains, just not as desperate an adjustment. I also was able to compensate for swayback in the back. Overall the 44 fits fairly well, better than Big 4. The shoulder slope & upper back is better, I have a flatter broader shoulder (always have). The darts had better placement for my size. Would slashing the muslin from the hem to waist and adding a small amount in a few locations evenly spaced be a good option?