In men’s fashion, a well-fitted suit reflects quality and is a lifelong investment. Custom tailoring has been around for ages. It offers a personalized fit and unique style that distinguishes it from off-the-rack suits. However, there are various menswear options in custom clothing, like bespoke and made-to-measure. These categories are often confused as one, and not everyone knows the difference between them.
In this article, you will uncover the different features of bespoke and made-to-measure suits and understand the difference between the two.
It is a type of custom tailoring that uses a basic or standard pattern, usually bought off the rack. The tailor then takes your measurements and adjusts the pattern accordingly. Unlike ready-to-wear suits, which come in standard sizes, MTM suits are made after taking specific measurements.
Bespoke tailoring is the highest level of tailoring, where a suit is crafted entirely from scratch. Unlike off-the-rack or made-to-measure options, bespoke suits create a unique pattern, ensuring a perfect fit. There are no base patterns, and the tailor starts with a black canvas, designing everything from scratch.
For MTM, the alterations are usually made in the off-the-rack suit. However, the tailor requires detailed measurements from every angle of the wearer’s body. Therefore, obtaining the dimensions and designing a draft usually takes one or two fittings. A final fitting ensures the suit fits perfectly according to your body’s measurements.
In bespoke suits, everything from the fabric to the design to the measurements is from scratch without any pre-set pattern. Therefore, more measurements are required than in MTM suits.
Bespoke tailoring typically involves 3-5 fitting sessions throughout the suit-making process. This includes an initial "baste" fitting where the suit is loosely or temporarily stitched with basting thread.
Further fittings take place to reach a level of refinement. The tailor wants to ensure the garment fits the client perfectly.
Made to Measure offers a variety of customization options. You can choose the jacket vent, linings, lapel style, and collar style. In accessories, you can select the number of buttons you want, the pocket and cuff style you need, and the trouser waistband style.
But keep in mind that customization options are limited compared to bespoke. The suit is adjusted to your measurements, and customization in terms of fit is limited to an existing pattern. The ability to modify aspects like the shoulder width or chest drape is constrained by the original pattern.
With bespoke tailoring, the customization options are limitless. You can select fabric from an unlimited variety of fabrics and have your suit made with rare and luxurious materials. Moreover, there is a huge variety of colors, patterns, and textures.
Furthermore, every aspect of the suit’s design can be customized to your preference. This includes unique lapel shapes, pocket styles, button placements, jacket lengths, and more. The tailor can accommodate virtually any request, creating a unique suit.
Made to Measure (MTM) suits offer a significant upgrade over off-the-rack options, such as blending machines and hand stitching to create a high-quality garment. MTM suits are made with good to high-quality fabrics and provide a very good fit. However, the construction and finish are somewhat standardized, reflecting a balance of quality and affordability. The use of machine stitching and standard techniques, while efficient, may result in a slightly less durable suit compared to bespoke options.
Bespoke clothing is a statement of exceptional quality and longevity. Every piece is hand-stitched by skilled artisans with different measurements and fit-check sessions. The fabric selection is premium, with access to the finest and most exclusive materials, resulting in a suit that fits perfectly and reflects elegance and sophistication. Due to the superior materials and expert craftsmanship, bespoke suits are highly durable and can last decades with proper care.
MTM is a combination of bespoke and off-the-rack. It is cheaper than bespoke but pricier than off-the-rack suits. MTM offers a balance between cost and customization. The lower price point is due to standardized patterns and a combination of machine and hand stitching, which streamlines the production process.
Bespoke suits are made from a pattern designed from scratch. Each piece is unique, made with premium materials and expert hand-stitching. Moreover, artisans spend long hours creating each custom suit. The price is actually the hard work, time, and premium materials used. Moreover, it is a long-term investment due to its unparalleled quality and durable finish.
When choosing between Made to Measure (MTM) and Bespoke tailoring, it's important to consider your budget and the level of customization you want.
MTM suits offer a good fit and quality at a lower cost. You can choose from different fabrics and styles, but the options are more limited compared to bespoke. MTM is a solid option if you desire a tailored suit without spending too much money.
They are expensive because they involve lots of handwork, top materials, and several fitting sessions. With bespoke, you get a suit designed specifically according to your requirements, reflecting your individuality. If money is not an issue and you would like a truly unique suit that fits perfectly on your body, then choose a bespoke one.
Think about what matters most to you—fit, quality, or cost. MTM suits take less time to make, while bespoke suits may take longer but offer the best customization and craftsmanship.
Both Made-to-measure (MTM) and bespoke suits have their benefits depending on what you want and your preferences. MTM provides outstanding value and a customized fit at affordable pricing, making it ideal for people seeking custom clothing without breaking their bank accounts. On the other hand, bespoke suits deliver unmatched craftsmanship, personalization, and a perfect fit, though they come with a higher price tag and longer production time.
For those seeking the best of both worlds, Kutetailor is an ideal choice. They provide choices in both MTM and Bespoke, enabling a flexible level of customization. Whether you opt for the business of MTM suits or the unparalleled excellence of bespoke garments, Kutetailor provides expert tailoring services to support your business.
A bespoke pattern is a custom-made template created from a client’s precise measurements. Unlike standard patterns, it is tailored to the individual’s body shape and preferences. This ensures a perfect fit and personalized style, resulting in a garment uniquely suited to the client’s physique.
Bespoke suits are custom-made from scratch with a unique pattern for each client, offering a perfect fit and extensive personalization. RTW (Ready-to-Wear) suits are pre-made in standard sizes and available off-the-rack, providing less customization and fit but at a more affordable price.
Made with high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and great attention to detail, bespoke suits are durable and can last 5-10 years, depending on the frequency of wear.