Know the Difference Between Custom Suits and Bespoke Suits so You Aren’t Deceived While Shopping

If you are new to suit fashion, you know it can be overwhelming. Many options make it hard to know what to purchase and shopping from big box stores can be tempting when they promise custom suits. More often than not, however, big box stores are just trying to make a quick sale. Often times, new suit shoppers are not aware of the main differences between custom suits found in retail stores and bespoke suits that are tailor-made to your exact fit and frame. This lack of knowledge usually ends with the shopper buying a cheap suit that is ill fitting and of poor quality. If you’re new to suit fashion, read up on the differences between custom retail suits and bespoke suits and choose the one that is best for you.

The “Custom” Retail Suit

The word “custom” can be deceiving when you are shopping for suits. The word can range in describing off-the-rack suits to made-to-measure suits. Many retail stores imply that their suits are custom when they are in fact cut to one of the standard sizes. Stores often are able to get away with using the word custom to describe their suits because they offer a tailoring service to go with the purchase of the suit.

Custom suits at retail stores are usually off-the-rack suits that are altered in minor ways. While these small adjustments can help your suit fit you better, the suit will never truly fit you perfectly. These types of custom suits are best if you have the standard male body type with slight variations such as slight height or weight differences. Generally speaking, they are the most affordable of suits. However, custom retail suits are also normally made with poor-quality fabric and are not tailored to you in any way other than in simple adjustments such as pant length.

Made-to-measure suits are a little more customized in fit than off-the-rack suits. They are made from a few standard measurements and cut from a particular pattern. They are also more expensive than off-the-rack suits, but they offer a little better quality and fit.

As a full disclosure, Harper’s offers made-to-measure shirts and trousers for our clients who need garments quickly and who can’t wait for a bespoke option. While made-to-measure shirts have their place, they are no substitution for bespoke garments.

A Bespoke Suit and What it Says About You

A bespoke suit is the ultimate in customization as it is truly made for you. Based on upward of 30 measurements before a single piece of fabric is cut, a bespoke suit is truly tailored to your frame. This made-from-scratch suit differs from the custom retail suit that is manufactured in bulk in every way.

Bespoke suits are hand-tailored by a master tailor. Crafted from the finest fabrics, this type of suit is customized in every aspect. From the buttons to the hand-stitching, your bespoke suit is everything you want it to be and more. In addition to being made from the highest quality fabric and customized to your style preference, a bespoke suit will also exceed any other garment in comfort. When a suit is made exactly for your fit and frame, it will be the most comfortable item you own.

Bespoke suits are generally the most expensive options in suits, but they will exceed all other suits in style, comfort, and quality.

When you are new to the suit world and are unsure of where to start, remember that custom suits from retail stores really aren’t custom. For a truly tailored and personalized suit, visit a bespoke suit shop where a master tailor makes a suit to your fit, style, and needs. Call Harper’s today to speak with a master tailor about ordering a bespoke suit for yourself.