Sunday, October 14, 2007

Reader Questions


From Chris
"I need a new set of dinner clothes and I've decided to bespeak one. What do I need to ask to ensure that I'm getting true bespoke and not "custom" or made to measure?"

I suggest you focus on the tailor's reputation and whether you like the work rather than the technical details. MTM with a hand sewn collar and shoulders is often a better product than the machine sewn bespoke I see coming out of some small tailor shops in the United States.


From Michael
"Is there a specific type of brush you recommend for suit care?"

In my opinion, the double sided Kent CC20 is the most useful brush for suits. £29.50 (about $60) directly from the maker.

1 comment:

ROT said...

WIll,
As always, impeccable advice. I've met with two shops, both of which are MTM, although one says that we can do bespoke as he has his tailor here in town. Most of his clothing is made at a factory, but "every curved seam" is handsewn and he says that a fully hand-canvassed chest and lapels are no problem. He is also giving me a basted fitting before the forward fitting.

He also said that most guys just show up and say "make me look good." And that clearly I wasn't one of those guys. He took a lot of notes, answered my questions honestly (in some cases saying "I don't know, but I will find out") and I think this might be the beginning of a fine collaboration.

Many thanks for your guidance. I felt well-prepared!

Regards,
Chris

 
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