You Need to Know How to Choose A Tailor

Section: Tailoring and Clothing Maintenance - Blog

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When it comes to men's suitings and being sharply dressed, fit is king. However, just like most rulers have skilled staff members working behind the scenes to make them look good at all times, the well-dressed man needs a skilled worker in his corner as well. Enter. The. Tailor. Here's everything you need to pick the best person for the job.

Typically, some men engage the services of their fathers' tailors to help them with their wardrobe needs. Others, however, rely on the knowledgeable tailored suit salesman for making the proper introductions.

Given the paucity of good tailors, finding one who can meet your requirements is tough. These tips can help you find a tailor who delivers superior quality work and can be relied upon consistently.

• Educate Yourself: Before you consult with an experienced tailor, you must be knowledgeable yourself. This happens when you have a foundation in the basics of men's style and tailored suits. Generally, men don't spend time reading about men's suits, business shirts, or menswear's. As a result, they may be swayed by the overall look of a suit and don't examine its construction. Once you understand the complexity of men's clothing details, you appreciate styling details like the fit of suit jackets, working sleeve buttonholes, and the break on a pair of trousers. When you feel comfortable with the language of tailors in regards to custom menswear, you can begin your search.
• Recommendations: Many men stick with their current tailor because they do not have a Plan B. Talk to your friends and colleagues; which tailors would they recommend? However, don't follow their recommendations blindly. For instance, they might praise a specific tailor simply because they don't know what a proper fit is. Therefore, seek the opinions of those individuals whom you regard as smart dressers. Their opinions and advice is invaluable.
• Communication Skills: As you interview tailors, consider whether you feel you can work with them. For example, check their communication skills. Are they good? Do they listen to you, or do they try to force their viewpoints on you? Tailors might have the relevant experience, but it needs to be complemented by good communication skills.
• The Tailor's Satisfaction Levels: The tailor must not be satisfied until the client is satisfied. Therefore, a tailor worth cultivating a long-term relationship with would be one who understands your definition of a perfect fit and constantly strives to achieve this.
• Style and Timeless Fashion: Each tailor's background will vary so they bring their own individuality into their work. This is where your preliminary education about menswear and classic styles comes in handy. It helps you identify a tailor who understands the classic men's style of clothing. Such a tailor would design you outfits that last for years without seeming outdated.
• Samples of Work: Look for samples of work that validates the tailor's claims. If the overall garment has no visible flaws, study the details i.e. the stitching, the build, the silhouette etc. The stitching should look clean and secure. The build and silhouette must be appealing enough for you to incorporate in your clothing.
• Availability: The best tailors are constantly sought after and in demand. Therefore, you could experience extensive wait times. However, you might need the tailor's services at a very short notice occasionally. Therefore, look for a tailor who values loyalty and goodwill and can attend to you on short notice.

Are you searching for a good tailor? Stop by our Sydney showroom and have a chat with one of our master tailors - you'll be glad you did. They will help you design a personalised style and look for any occasion.

Original idea for article from Antonio Centeno, author of the internet's most actionable men's style guide. We recommend a read!

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