How Does A Bespoke Suit Distinguish Itself From Others?

Many men have experienced buying a ready-made suit. Chances are, you have one (or more) hanging in your closet. Do these suits do the job? Yes. But do they make you feel completely confident when you wear them? Probably not.

When it comes to finding a top-notch suit, you often hear terms like custom, made-to-measure, and bespoke suits. To clarify these terms, here are some distinctions between the three categories.

WHAT IS A CUSTOM SUIT?

The term "custom" can be broad. It often means you can choose details like a colored lining or special buttons. However, a custom suit isn't necessarily made specifically for your body. It's typically produced in a factory, and any adjustments are made by a tailor afterward.

WHAT IS A MADE-TO-MEASURE SUIT?

Made-to-measure suits begin with a standard pattern but allow for adjustments in size to fit your body shape. When I started in the industry, I used a made-to-measure manufacturer. I soon realized that not everyone could be perfectly fitted with a standard paper pattern that needed frequent alterations. In the end, most made-to-measure suits cannot accommodate variations in shoulder slope, posture, or significant asymmetries in your body. Nowadays, many men have broad shoulders and a narrower waist, which limits how much a tailor can adjust around those areas.

WHAT IS A BESPOKE SUIT?

A genuine bespoke suit is like a work of art. It originated on Savile Row in London and the term "bespoke" literally means "to be spoken for." With a bespoke suit, you have a say in every detail—from the fitting and fabric to the final touches. The bespoke process involves creating a completely unique pattern that is tailored specifically to your body shape. Unfortunately, the term "bespoke" has lost some of its original meaning in the industry. Many custom clothiers claim to offer bespoke suits, but they often use a made-to-measure approach instead.

5 BENEFITS OF CHOOSING A BESPOKE SUIT

Curious about the difference a bespoke suit can make? Here are several compelling reasons why opting for a truly custom suit stands out:

1. Unique Patterns

Bespoke tailors don't use standardized patterns. Instead, they create a brand-new pattern for each client. This personalized approach ensures that every curve and contour of your body is accounted for, resulting in a suit that fits like a second skin.

2. Endless Customization

When it comes to customization, bespoke suits offer unparalleled flexibility. Whether you have specific design preferences, unique fabric choices, or intricate details in mind, a bespoke tailor can accommodate your desires. From selecting the lining and buttons to choosing the lapel style and pocket placements, the options are virtually limitless.

3. Premium Fabrics

One of the hallmarks of a bespoke suit is the quality of fabrics available. Bespoke tailors have relationships with some of the finest fabric mills globally, such as Scabal, Dormeuil, Holland & Sherry, Cerruti, and Gladson. This allows you to choose from a vast selection of luxurious materials that are known for their durability, comfort, and impeccable drape.

4. Detailed Measurements

Unlike off-the-rack or made-to-measure suits that may rely on a handful of measurements, bespoke tailors take meticulous measurements—often over 40—to ensure a precise fit. These measurements take into account not only your body size but also specific characteristics like shoulder slope, posture, and even asymmetries. This level of detail ensures that your suit not only looks exceptional but also feels comfortable and enhances your silhouette.

5. Personalized Service

The bespoke experience is highly personalized. At Richards Bespoke and similar establishments, appointments are typically required for fittings. This approach allows the tailor to dedicate uninterrupted time to you, guiding you through every step of the tailoring process. From the initial consultation where your preferences and style are discussed to the final fitting where adjustments are made for the perfect fit, you are involved in crafting a suit that reflects your individuality and meets your exacting standards.

Choosing a bespoke suit isn't just about acquiring a garment; it's about investing in craftsmanship, precision, and a garment that is uniquely yours in every aspect.

CREATE YOUR PERFECT SUIT

The main difference between these choices isn't just about cost or quality, though those do vary. It's more about how much control you have in designing a suit that fits your body shape and style perfectly. It's about craftsmanship versus mass production efficiency. Bespoke suits are handmade and completely unique, tailored specifically for you. In contrast, off-the-rack and even custom suits are often made in large, uniform factories.

At Don Morphy, every client goes through a true bespoke experience. You have the freedom to choose every detail, ensuring each garment fits you perfectly. The difference in quality and fit is noticeable and will make an impression on others.

Schedule your first appointment with Don Morphy today to discover the difference for yourself and learn more about our process.