Fashion never stays the same; there are always new ways to reinvent a look to make it bolder and better. When we look at everyday clothes, it might not always be visible. How can a plain shirt, jeans, and old sneakers be fashion? But it is. One of the oldest and arguably the most classic staples in fashion is the suit. You could be James Bond, or a regular Joe working from 9 to 5 and still wear a suit.
With the history the suit carries, it has evolved over time as well to become more accessible to the general public. The bespoke suit is gaining in popularity (right after people found out what a bespoke suit is), and ready to wear suits are an innovation. Their convenience and price are a testament to how modern the ready to wear suits are. This could not have been achieved at any other time. Before we get into arguments between which one is better, without the snobbery of “custom is always best”, let’s break it down.
What makes bespoke special?
The primary thing that makes a bespoke suit special is how it is made for you. Bespoke suits are narcissistic: your shape, your size, your colours, your lifestyle. These dictate the kind of suit you own when you opt for bespoke. Other people can wear it, but rarely can it be worn in a better way than you do.
There is an entire team behind your suit, and multiple fittings to account for any short-term changes. If that does not seem like commitment, then, what is? A ready to wear suit just doesn’t have the same story. This is what gives bespoke its edge, you get to know the people behind your suit. You get to be a part of the process.
Is it a good investment?
The issue then comes as to whether it is an investment or not. As much as a bespoke suit is made for your lifestyle, it does not adjust to your budget the same way. The grey area for something a little bit above your average fare is the made to measure (MTM) suit, which is slightly customised and easier on budget.
At the end of the day, you have to consider your motivation for having a suit in the first place. If you don’t wear it frequently buying bespoke might not be the best idea. Even if you aren’t growing, it doesn’t mean your body isn’t changing. Gaining weight or losing it, developing muscle, and even general concepts about style and comfort affect how the suit will be worn after a long time.
The ready to wear suit doesn’t always have to be a last-minute buy or a sad substitute. If you aren’t preoccupied with the story behind the suit the edge bespoke has over ready to wear isn’t as sharp anymore.
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