Suit Up Smartly

Ordering your own bespoke suit? This is what you need to keep in mind. .

CHOOSE THE RIGHT FABRIC

One may think that the softest and most luxurious fabrics are the best choice, but sometimes, that Super 200 fabric may not be appropriate for your needs.

QUESTION YOUR TAILOR

“Most tailors in Asia do not keep a stock of branded European fabrics; orders are placed only upon commission,” reveals Thomas Wong, founder of The Prestigious Bespoke. “Be highly cautious if a tailor claims to have exquisite fabrics readily available.”

HAVE A REALISTIC TIME FRAME

At Savile Row in London, the gold standard for a bespoke full-canvassed, handmade suit is three to six months.

“The standard time at The Prestigious is six to eight weeks. Tailors who claim to provide full-canvassed, handmade suits in days are selling you short,” says Wong.

GET THE COMPLETE PICTURE

Stand between two facing mirrors to enable a simultaneous viewing of the front and back. An all-rounded inspection can help you spot problems more clearly.

DO A QUALITY CHECK

Keep an eye out for folds or pull lines in the fabric. The suit should sit straight and fall neatly. Be careful that the tailor does not stand behind you and pull or tuck the suit to make it look more fitted than it actually is.

(Left) The Prestigious Bespoke provides quality craftsmanship along with expert advice for its tailoring services.