When you’re looking for a suit, you have three basic choices: off-the-rack, made-to-measure or custom, and bespoke suits. You may have heard these terms but have no idea what they mean, this is where you can begin to have an idea. What’s the difference? Is one better than the other? What are the pros and cons?
Off-the-Rack Suits
They’re exactly what it sounds like, the ones you see in any clothing shop you walk into. Machine-made and mass-produced, their sizes are standardized, but you should expand your budget to include alterations. The biggest benefit of an off-the-rack-suit is availability.
Custom Suits
This is a made-to-measure outfit. It’s cut from an existing template that can then be modified to your actual fit. There are a lot more steps in creating a tailor-made suit and you will get a much better fit. Custom suits are still made by machine, but you have control over the size, fabric, lapel style, pocket style, and the style of the pants. The biggest benefit is the number of options this type of suit offers.
It’s more expensive and it takes time for you to finally get the finished product from the tailor. Once you do try it on for the first time, alterations may even have to be done for you to get the perfect fit. But the results are often always worth it.
Bespoke Suits
This is the ultimate custom option. The term bespoke comes from the days when a tailor would have bolts of cloth and the client would choose one among them. From that point on, the cloth would be considered spoken for.
Unlike a custom suit which is cut from a pre-existing pattern, the bespoke suit uses an outline that’s unique to you and, based on the measurements done, the resulting pattern is exclusively yours. It’s generally hand-made, but a machine might be used at some point in the manufacturing process. Overall, you are getting a one-of-a-kind outfit with material of your choice and tailored for your unique body frame.
There is really nothing like a bespoke suit, but you have to fork over an expensive amount for that level of quality. It’s not for everyone. If the cost is within your reach though, it’ll surely be worth it.
The Right Suit for You
Now that you have a fairly good idea of what to look for, here are the things you need to take into consideration:
Budget – We are not only talking about the suit here. We’re also referring to the shoes and shirt, plus the tie, belt, and socks.
Go Classic – You can never go wrong with simple and traditional when buying a suit or having one made. Admittedly, suits are susceptible to fashion that swings from trend to trend. It’s cool if you can afford it. On the other hand, stay comfortable and chic. Stick to what’s standard.
Spell Out What You Want – You must go through every detail of your perfect suit, from the lapel to the pant cuffs. Say what it is you want and take advice from your tailor.
Finally, Work with the Best
For your custom suits, bespoke suits, or the skilled alteration of an off-the-rack creation, Mohammed Kalam of Crown Custom Clothing in Michigan is the expert you need to see. To see more of our work, feel free to browse our website: customtailormi.com.
PHONE: 248-439-1898
EMAIL: customtailormi@gmail.com
ADDRESS: 2410 W. 14 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48073