Understanding Made-to-Measure Menswear

Let’s kick things off with a clear understanding of what made-to-measure actually means. Let’s say you walk into a store, see a suit that catches your eye, but alas, it doesn’t quite fit. Maybe the shoulders are too broad, or the sleeves too long. With off-the-rack suits, you get what you get, and alterations can only do so much. Made-to-measure suits, however, are created based on your unique measurements. Think of it as a middle ground between bespoke (fully custom) and off-the-rack (ready-to-wear).

Pros: You get a suit tailored to your body, with customization options galore, often at a more accessible price than bespoke.

Cons: It’s pricier than off-the-rack, and you’ll need to be patient as it’s made specifically for you.

I remember the first time I recommended an MTM suit to a groom. He was skeptical—worried about the cost and the time involved. But once he slipped into that perfectly tailored jacket, the look on his face was pure joy. It was like he’d been fitted for a role in a James Bond film. His exact words: “I feel like a million bucks, without actually spending it!”

The Process of Getting a Made-to-Measure Suit

So, how does one go about getting a made-to-measure suit? It’s a journey, but one worth taking.

Initial Consultation and Measurements

This is where you meet with the tailor, discuss your needs, and get measured. Every inch of you is considered—from shoulder width to wrist circumference. The precision of this process is comparable to a sculptor chiseling away at marble to reveal a masterpiece beneath.

Watch this video to learn more about how to talk to your tailor:

Fabric Selection and Customization

Here’s where the fun begins. You choose from a variety of fabrics, colours, and patterns. Want a royal blue wool suit? Done. Prefer a lightweight linen for a beach wedding? No problem. It’s like being a kid in a candy store, except instead of sweets, you’re surrounded by luxurious fabrics.

Fittings and Adjustments

After the initial construction, you’ll have fittings to ensure everything is perfect. Adjustments are made as needed. This stage reminds me of tweaking a recipe; a pinch of this and a dash of that until it’s just right.

Final Delivery and Tweaks

The suit is delivered, and final tweaks are made to ensure it fits like a glove. One groom I worked with chose a deep burgundy velvet for his winter wedding. It was a bold choice, but with the right measurements and customization, it looked absolutely regal.

Choosing the Right Fabric

The fabric you choose can make or break your suit. It’s not just about colour; it’s about texture, weight, and how it moves with you.

Wool

A classic choice, suitable for most seasons. It’s durable and comes in various weights. Wool is the little black dress of the suit world—versatile and timeless.

Linen

Ideal for summer weddings. It’s breathable but can wrinkle easily. I once had a groom who insisted on a linen suit for his tropical destination wedding. The lightness of the fabric kept him cool under the sun, and he looked effortlessly stylish. For more about Linen suits – read this.

Velvet

For a touch of luxury and drama. Perfect for winter weddings. Velvet is the peacock of fabrics—striking and full of personality.

Watch this video to learn more:

Customisation Options

Customization is where MTM suits truly shine. You can tweak almost every aspect:

Lapel Style

Peak, notch, or shawl? Each brings a different vibe to your suit. I had a groom who opted for a shawl lapel for a sleek, modern look, and it was a hit. Check this out for more ideas.

Pocket Design

Flap, jetted, or patch? This may seem trivial, but the right pocket design can add a subtle flair to your suit.

Button Choices

Single-breasted, double-breasted, or even the number of buttons. One groom wanted a unique touch—he opted for contrasting buttonholes in a subtle gold thread. It was a small detail, but it added a personal flair that stood out beautifully in photos.

Finding the Perfect Fit

The fit is paramount. An ill-fitting suit, no matter how expensive, will never look good.

Pros: MTM suits are tailored to your body’s unique contours, eliminating common fit issues like bunching at the shoulders or sagging at the waist.

Cons: It requires multiple fittings and adjustments, which can be time-consuming.

A groom I worked with had broad shoulders and a narrow waist, a combination that made finding a good fit off-the-rack nearly impossible. His MTM suit, however, fit him perfectly and accentuated his athletic build.

Accessorising Your Suit

Accessories can elevate your look from stylish to downright dashing.

Ties and Bowties

Match with the wedding theme or go for a classic look. One groom chose a paisley bowtie that added a playful touch to his ensemble.

Pocket Squares

A pop of colour or pattern can add personality. It’s the cherry on top of your sartorial sundae.

Cufflinks

These can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. One groom chose cufflinks that featured tiny compasses, a nod to his love for travel. It was a subtle, meaningful detail that added a layer of depth to his ensemble.

Watch this video to learn more:

Cost Considerations

Let’s talk money. MTM suits are an investment, but one worth making.

Pros: You get a high-quality, tailored suit that fits perfectly and lasts for years.

Cons: They’re more expensive than off-the-rack options and require a time investment.

A client once told me, “I never thought I’d spend this much on a suit, but it’s worth every penny.” And I couldn’t agree more. The confidence a well-fitted suit provides is priceless.

Real-Life Success Stories

I could go on and on about the benefits of MTM suits, but nothing beats real-life success stories.

One of my grooms, Sam, was particularly memorable. He was a bit apprehensive about the whole MTM process but decided to give it a go. His wedding was a vintage-themed affair, and he opted for a tweed suit. The first fitting needed some tweaks, but by the final fitting, he was over the moon. On the big day, he looked like he’d stepped straight out of a 1920s film. The suit fit him like a dream, and he couldn’t stop smiling.

Conclusion

In conclusion, made-to-measure menswear offers grooms the perfect blend of elegance, fit, and customization. It’s an investment in quality, comfort, and style that pays off on your wedding day and beyond. From choosing the right fabric to nailing the perfect fit, every step of the MTM process is about creating a suit that’s uniquely you. So, if you’re a groom looking to make a sartorial statement, consider going made-to-measure. Trust me, it’s worth it.

Remember, your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. Why not look and feel your absolute best? Tailored elegance is just a fitting away.