softgrey
flaunt the imperfection
- Joined
- Jan 28, 2004
- Messages
- 52,891
- Reaction score
- 311
the answers to all the questions we have all asked ourselves...
INTRODUCTION
In this age of globalization, shopping is in danger of becoming an homogenized experience. But, when it comes to bespoke, England still reigns supreme, whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind handbag or an impeccable but fashion-forward suit. In this section, you'll find our favorite London sources, but first a few answers to your nagging questions about custom.
Aren't tailored suits for, like, my granddaddy?
No, bespoke is no longer the sole province of the titled and elderly. Cool, contemporary guys—including hip hop producers, rock icons, and media mavens—are opting for updated custom classics from a new generation of Savile Row tailors. And given the price of off-the-rack designer gear these days, you could argue that, at $2,000-5,000, a hard-wearing bespoke suit is a relative bargain.
Will I have to have a million fittings?
Like life, bespoke tailoring is a journey, not a destination, but the process is probably simpler than you had feared. Whether you choose made-to-measure or custom (see below), most tailors require at least two fittings. You should expect an extended initial session, during which (almost) every inch of your body will be measured, and a follow-up appointment for adjustments when the suit is ready six to eight weeks later. Depending on your tailor's methodology and your personal requirements, there may be further adjustment sessions. As Petter Lundgren, the manager at Spencer Hart's Savile Row store, points out, the amount of time involved "depends on the customer's posture and shape."
Made-to-measure? Custom? What's the difference?
Custom suits are tailored entirely from scratch. Made-to-measure suits are based on an existing pattern that is adapted to your body. Made to measure is a slightly less intensive process, and the suits, while still superb in quality and finish, are about half the price of custom. This is a good option for customers new to the art of bespoke.
Either way, I'll need a private jet then?
Not necessarily. If you can't come to Savile Row, Savile Row will come to you. Many British tailors regularly visit New York (and even some other American cities), and you can contact them ahead of time to make an appointment. At a pinch, Lundgren says, you can even do the first fitting with the man from London, then have your local tailor carry out any adjustments when the suit arives.
To sum up, custom-made clothing may require a little commitment on your behalf, but the result is a suit that will truly stand out from the pack.
INTRODUCTION
In this age of globalization, shopping is in danger of becoming an homogenized experience. But, when it comes to bespoke, England still reigns supreme, whether you're looking for a one-of-a-kind handbag or an impeccable but fashion-forward suit. In this section, you'll find our favorite London sources, but first a few answers to your nagging questions about custom.
Aren't tailored suits for, like, my granddaddy?
No, bespoke is no longer the sole province of the titled and elderly. Cool, contemporary guys—including hip hop producers, rock icons, and media mavens—are opting for updated custom classics from a new generation of Savile Row tailors. And given the price of off-the-rack designer gear these days, you could argue that, at $2,000-5,000, a hard-wearing bespoke suit is a relative bargain.
Will I have to have a million fittings?
Like life, bespoke tailoring is a journey, not a destination, but the process is probably simpler than you had feared. Whether you choose made-to-measure or custom (see below), most tailors require at least two fittings. You should expect an extended initial session, during which (almost) every inch of your body will be measured, and a follow-up appointment for adjustments when the suit is ready six to eight weeks later. Depending on your tailor's methodology and your personal requirements, there may be further adjustment sessions. As Petter Lundgren, the manager at Spencer Hart's Savile Row store, points out, the amount of time involved "depends on the customer's posture and shape."
Made-to-measure? Custom? What's the difference?
Custom suits are tailored entirely from scratch. Made-to-measure suits are based on an existing pattern that is adapted to your body. Made to measure is a slightly less intensive process, and the suits, while still superb in quality and finish, are about half the price of custom. This is a good option for customers new to the art of bespoke.
Either way, I'll need a private jet then?
Not necessarily. If you can't come to Savile Row, Savile Row will come to you. Many British tailors regularly visit New York (and even some other American cities), and you can contact them ahead of time to make an appointment. At a pinch, Lundgren says, you can even do the first fitting with the man from London, then have your local tailor carry out any adjustments when the suit arives.
To sum up, custom-made clothing may require a little commitment on your behalf, but the result is a suit that will truly stand out from the pack.
