Suit Jackets

If you are able to buy yourself a bespoke suit, then you have clearly made it in the world of fashion. Why? And what is a “bespoke suit,” as opposed to any other type of suit? The word “bespoke” comes from the word “bespeak,” meaning “to speak for something,” to ask for it. In other words, when you order a bespoke suit, this means that you are ordering a suit that is tailored according to your own personal specifications. The term “bespoke” is used mostly among the British, rather than the Americans, even though both countries have a similar concept in their dress.

A bespoke suit differs from a made to measure suit, because whereas the latter is made from a block adjusted to fit the client, a bespoke suit is made entirely according to the personal demands of the client. In today’s world of off-the-rail clothing, a bespoke suit is the most costly and highest quality outfit.

The most famous place to purchase a bespoke suit is Savile Row in London, with its long historical tradition of tailors. The tailors on Savile Row have even formed their own association, providing specific guidelines on the definition and crafting of a bespoke suit. This includes which parts of the suit must be hand-stitched and where machine work may or may not be allowed.

Many famous politicians, members of the British Royal Family, and other public figures purchase their bespoke suits from the tailors on Savile Row. Even today, anyone who purchases a bespoke suit from a royal tailor on Savile Row will be dressing to the highest level of chic and style that one can find anywhere in the world.

A bespoke suit may be made from a variety of fabrics, such as wool, tweed, or flannel. It can be made in any color or design that the client wants, though most suits are black, various shades of gray, or navy blue. The client may choose pinstripes, or he may prefer there to be no pattern at all, depending on what he wishes to use the suit for. The client may also want to have a three-piece suit, which includes a waistcoat.

However, these days three-piece suits are out of fashion in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Japan, though they remain quite popular in Europe. There is also a choice of a double- or single-breasted jacket, or wide or narrow lapels. Depending on the age of the client, one may prefer that the trousers of the bespoke suit are worn with suspenders rather than a belt.

The main disadvantage of purchasing a bespoke suit is the cost. But apart from that, there are only pluses. If you wish to purchase a bespoke suit, you can choose your own color, cut, and style and look exactly the way you want. If you have a good dress sense, you will create a suit that is classy and stylish, and be the envy of all your friends. And if you don’t, and you look a little ridiculous, well, most people are so much in awe of Savile Row suits that it really won’t matter.