Bespoke vs. Made-to-Measure: What’s the Best Custom Clothing Option for You?

Introduction

Custom clothing falls under two main styles: Bespoke and Made-to-Measure (MTM). Both offer a superior fit and quality to off-the-rack clothing, but they are quite different and knowing the differences may sway you in either direction. So which is the right choice for you? Let’s break it down!

What is Bespoke Clothing?

Bespoke clothing is at the top of the custom measurement hierarchy. Each piece is made entirely by hand, from the ground up, and made to suit an individual customer.

The Bespoke Tailoring Process

·  It starts with several fittings with the tailor.

· Measurements of the body are taken in detail.

·   Individualized pattern is generated.

· The clothing underwent hand-stitching and several fittings to guarantee a flawless fit.

Customization Options

·   Control the fabric, design and details.

·   No limit to editing until the customer is satisfied.

· Craftsmanship details like hand-stitched buttonholes and canvassed lapels.

What is MTM (Made-to-Measure) Clothing?

Made-to-measure (MTM) falls between off-the-rack clothing and bespoke tailoring. It employs a pre-cut pattern that is modified according to the customer’s measurements.

How MTM Differs from Bespoke

·  MTM tailors modify an existing pattern rather than creating a new one.

·   Less fittings than bespoke.

· Not as customized but still a better fit than a ready-to-wear.

The MTM Process

·   The customer chooses a base model from a series.

· Take measurements and adjust the standard pattern.

· It fits naturally without trials as the piece is made based on measures and can be worn after delivery.

What’s the Difference Between Bespoke and Made-to-Measure?

Fit and Customization

·   Bespoke: 100 percent custom fit and unlimited adjustments

·   MTM: Altered from a previous style, providing a semi-custom fit.

Fabric Selection

·   Bespoke: Thousands of fabrics, exclusive and hard to come by.

·   MTM: A more limited selection of fabrics based on a pre-determined collection.

Pattern Creation

· Bespoke: Each client has a one-of-a-kind pattern created from the ground up.

· MTM: Modifications done to a base model.

Cost Comparison

·   Bespoke: High cost associated with craftsmanship and intensive operations.

·  More expensive, but not as expensive as RTW.

Time Required

· Bespoke: Many weeks or two months, multiple fittings.

·   MTM: Can take a few weeks with less fittings.

Pros and Cons of Bespoke Clothing

Pros:

✅ Total control of design and fabric.

✅ More better quality material and craftsmanship.

✅ Superior craftsmanship and quality.

Cons:

❌ Mass-produced and RTW are cheaper.

❌ Anti-pattern — something that takes time to get absolutely nowhere.

Do It All Yourself: Pros and Cons of Made-to-Measure Clothing

Pros:

✅ Cheaper than tailor-made.

✅ Faster turnaround time.

✅ Fits better than off-the-rack.

Cons:

❌ Some restrictions to customization options

❌ Probably not as tailor-made fit as bespoke

Which Option is Best for You?

When deciding between bespoke and MTM, consider your requirements and budget.

· Go bespoke, if you want superior quality and a perfect fit.

· MTM: If you want to get a custom fit without emptying your bank account, MTM is a fantastic option.

Both options advance your wardrobe beyond off-the-rack clothes. Think about what’s most important to you — total customization or convenience and price.

Conclusion

Bespoke and made to measure cloth is far superior to anything that can be had from off-the-rack fashion. Bespoke is for you if you are on the lookout for exclusivity craftsmanship and an impeccable fit. Made-to-measure is an excellent halfway-house between the two — allowing for a high level of customization, while still a fraction of the price.

Whether you opt for made-to-measure clothing or bespoke tailoring, the bottom line is that spending money on custom clothing guarantees that you look and feel your best!