12 Jan The Exclusive Alterations Guide – 7 rules to remember when purchasing a tailor-made suit

A suit that is well-made and off-the-rack is a good piece of clothing, we do not deny this, but when it comes to the very best fit for your body, opting for a tailor-made suit is the best option.  This will make sure that the suit has the best cut and style that is possible, and it is the only way to ensure that you get the best fit possible.

To make sure that you make an informed decision, we have created a short guide for you follow when you purchase a tailor-made suit.  You are guaranteed to make the best choice by following this guide.

1. Set a budget

The first thing that you need to keep in mind is your budget.  This will be the deciding factor for what features of your suit you can keep.  It also determines what cut or style you can choose, as some styles of suits are more expensive than others.  However, this does not mean that you cannot get a great suit with a lower budget, it only means that you need to be more selective about what you choose to feature in your suit.

2. Simplicity is vital

When you purchase a tailor-made suit, especially if it is your first time, you should stick with the most flexible and easy choices.  Choose from the fundamentals, like the classic navy wool or charcoal grey suits.  These suits are a great choice for nearly any occasion.

3. Choose a flattering fit

Each individual’s body is different, and you need to opt for a suit that showcases your best features whilst also hiding any flaws.  For an individual who is lean and tall, a slim fit would be best as long as it doesn’t inhibit your mobility. For an individual with a wider build, you would want to give yourself some extra room in your torso area. This is something that your tailor can easily do for you, as long as you make your preferences known.

4. Your choice of fabric

Choose a fabric that will the best fit for your intended use.  If you are looking for a suit for a summer event, choose a fabric that is light and porous, so you can stay cool.  For a winter even, opt for wool or flannel to keep you warm.

5. Choose your buttons

A two-buttoned suit jacket is easy enough to pull off, and suited to informal events.  A single-buttoned jacket is reserved for more formal events.  The classic three-button styled is seen to be outdated, but still a good choice for taller gentlemen.

6. Your choice of lapel

There are three types of lapels: the peak, the slim lapels and the notch.  The latter is the most common type, whilst peak lapels will give you a sharper look, and slim lapels are for a more modernised look.

7. Remember your shoulders

Lightly padded or non-padded shoulders are generally seen as a casual style, and it works well to keep your cool during the summer months.  Thick-padded shoulders are more professional, and usually what executives wear to board meetings.

The team at Exclusive Alterations specialise in creating the perfect suit for you, your style and your body.  If you are looking for a tailor in London, get in touch with us today.