10 Things to Know Before Ordering a Custom Suit

Introduction

Let’s face it — nothing makes you feel more powerful than a good suit. Off-the-rack options can get the job done, but a custom suit elevates your sartorial game. It’s not only about being aesthetically pleasing; it’s about feeling like your best self. The world of custom tailoring can be a great and alluring option, but before you go ahead you should know a few key things.

Learn The Process of Custom Tailoring

The three main types of suit are off-the-rack, made-to-measure, and bespoke. “Off-the-rack suits are the most generic, while made-to-measure takes a baselining suit and tailors it to your body measurements. Bespoke, however, takes personalization to the peak—designed from the ground up just for you.

Know Your Budget

Custom suits can cost anywhere from $500 to thousands of dollars. The price varies based on fabric quality, tailoring complexity and other accoutrements. Before diving in, set a reasonable budget.

Choose the Right Tailor

In the custom suit world, your tailor is your backbone. Read their reviews, ask for referrals and even stop by their shop to suss out their expertise. A good tailor is like a good barber — if they get it right, you’ll keep coming back.

Fabric Selection

Your suit’s fabric can be the difference between good and bad. Wool is classic, cotton is adaptable and linen is summer-friendly. Always keep the climate and the occasion in mind when choosing fabrics.

Style Preferences

Do you prefer a single-breasted jacket for a timeless effect, or a double-breasted one for something more daring? Details like lapel styles — notch, peak, or shawl — add their own distinctiveness to the vibe of your suit.

Pay Attention to Fit

The right suit is like a second skin. It should fit tight but not so tight as to be binding, with no extra material and wrinkles. Measurements are everything, so take the time to get them right.

Customization Options

Customization is where your individuality shines, from lining patterns to button styles. And personalize it with details like monograms or contrast stitching, giving the suit a very personal touch.

Timeline for Completion

Bespoke suits, though, take a while — four to eight weeks, usually. Cue up, particularly if you are placing an order for a particular occasion. When you rush the process, you tend to make mistakes.

Care and Maintenance

Your custom suit is an investment — and so, treat it like one. Dry clean only occasionally, hang up on a nice hanger and use a garment bag when traveling.

Final Fitting and Adjustments

Your final fitting is your opportunity to get everything right. And don’t be shy about asking for adjustments — it’s your suit, and it has to be perfect.

Long-Term Value

A tailor-made suit will be more expensive up front but with proper care, it’s going to last you for years. Treat it as a classic wardrobe piece.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Take your time and don’t disregard your tailor’s recommendations. Listen to their expertise — they know what works for your body type and your style preferences.

Conclusion

By investing into a custom suit, you are investing into yourself. Add the right tailor, fabric and front style, and you’ll end up with a piece of clothing that feels as good as it looks. Give yourself plenty of time to research, and enjoy the journey. Well, great style is all in the details, after all.