Should you buy a suit off the rack, online or have it custom made?
When it comes to choosing your next suit purchases, you are often faced with the wide range of choices now available to the modern man. Often, the difference can lie in the cost, fit and quality.
We help you compare the difference between purchasing a suit from three different sources.
Off the rack
Most people prefer to buy off the rack suits. You can try on different shapes and cuts, touch the fabric for quality, and be able to wear it right away. There is a huge variety of options, from $300 wool blends, to $6000 Italian made cashmere. There are hundreds of styles and colours now available, that are of the latest trends.
You may spend between $50 to $200 for alterations, and have the suit fit your shape, like it was custom made for you.
Online
There is an emerging tide of online tailors on the men’s fashion scene. These businesses offer less expensive suits, as they’re usually based overseas. If you are after a matching set of groomsmen suits, or just want something different for work, online order may be the way to go.
Make sure you know your sizes. Get a comprehensive list of required measurements from the business, and have The Fitting Room measure you professionally. It is a good idea to send them pictures of yourself from different angles to make sure they cut the suit to your body shape.
Don’t expect the returned product to fit perfectly, as measurements, without fittings, can only convey so much information. Be prepared to spend $30 to $150 for extra alterations, for the suit to fit perfectly.
Custom Made
There are now more than 10 custom made tailors in Brisbane. You will meet with a stylist who will help you design the suit, and select the fabric. The suits are made overseas, then fitted and altered here in Brisbane. Custom made suits can vary from $750 to $18,000. The price is determined by the craftsmanship, and quality of fabric. If you have trouble finding suits off the rack to suit your shape, custom made will ensure all your suits fit you perfectly. A lot of people choose the Custom Made option, because it is a very exclusive and memorable experience.
Whichever option you decide to proceed with, The Fitting Room on Edward will be able to help you make minor alterations to make every outfit look as if it is custom made for you, and on trend.