How To Buy a Custom Suit

Off-the-rack suits are the telltale sign that you’re focused on price, not investment, when building your wardrobe. You’re not a regular guy, so why would you choose just a regular suit? If you want to make a ‘wow’ impression in every meeting and chance encounter, step away from the rack of suits and onto the tailor’s measuring box.

Buying your next custom-fit suit doesn’t mean you take an off-the-rack suit and ask for alterations. However, if you do have a suit you like that needs adjustments, we do offer alterations as part of our services at Savile Row. We’ve heard it before, “But a suit off the rack fits just fine.” You don’t want ‘just fine’; you want a suit that fits like your skin. A regular suit tells the world you’re on a budget. A custom suit asks if you left your handheld on the jet.

There are several key steps that can make buying your next custom suit a spectacular success:

• Always think of your tailor as an artist in need of inspiration. You can envision the look and feel of your suit and your artisan tailor knows the best practices for making your suit fit your body perfectly. Learning how to buy a custom suit starts with knowing how to communicate with your next tailor. Know what parts of the suit your tailor may refer to, such as lapels, sleeve pitch, and trouser breaks.

• If you have a suit that you like, wear it to your fitting appointment. This allows the tailor to see your body in a suit before starting the measurement process.
• Know what type of fabric and colors you want for your new suit. More recent suit trends follow seasons: tweed or flannel for the fall, seersuckers and cottons for the summer. If you’re looking for a business suit, stay with darker colors, like dark blues and gray, for a more classic look.
• Take as much time as you want to get the exact fit you desire. This may mean asking more questions and being more specific with how you want your suit to rest on your flank, shoulders, back, and legs. This is an investment and you’re paying for a premium experience: take your time.

When your new suit arrives at Savile Row, try it on and ensure you feel comfortable with every measurement. It may feel different and even a little uncomfortable at first because this may be your first custom suit, but you will be amazed at the difference in feel over time.

Find your next custom suit at Savile Row

The clothes may make the man, but the man who makes the clothes is just as important. Our Savile Row patented measuring system is unmatched in the Midwest and we purchase from only the finest fabric houses – Holland & Sherry, Dormeuil, Ermenegildo Zegna, and Scabal. You can choose from our three distinct grades of tailoring for your next custom suit. Step into Savile Row to find the suit that fits like a second skin. Give us a call at 314.721.SUIT or click here to make an appointment.  We’re happy to help.