#SUITS
Understanding What to Look for in a Well-Made Suit
Investing in a suit should never go without specific considerations. Many off-the-rack suits simply don’t measure up to the standards we desire. To achieve sartorial perfection, one must understand what to look for and what to avoid. A suit should be a statement about the gentleman wearing it. It should exude opulence and cause onlookers to gaze with awe. These confidence-enhancing garments should never be seen only as an item of clothing but as a way to express who we are and what we stand for. Today, Patrick & Co wants to shed some light on the matter and provide professional guidance on what you should look for before making your next suit investment. After reading, you’ll know why nothing compares to a meticulously curated bespoke suit and why you should never settle for anything less. Here are some tips that will not only enhance your wardrobe but change your life completely
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Tip Number One: Always Examine the Fabric
Playing one of the most pivotal roles in the construction of a suit, the fabric stands strong as its foundation. Always ensure your suit is composed of natural fibres, such as wool or cashmere. These fabrics have tremendous breathability and durability and drape wonderfully. Natural fibres offer an incredibly luxurious feel and will enhance the longevity of your suit. If you purchase a suit made from synthetic fibres, all the benefits mentioned are likely to be dramatically compromised. These fabrics are also challenging to wear in warmer months and will have a much less satisfying feel than their natural counterparts. Additionally, one must be wary of finer fabrics. Though they may appear lightweight and comfortable, they are far less likely to maintain structure and will lack durability. The perfect fabrics are natural, lightweight, and durable, offering the right balance of comfort and a striking look.
Tip Number Two: Ensure Quality Construction
The construction of a suit also plays an essential role in identifying its quality. An off-the-rack suit will follow standardised construction guidelines and is unlikely to adhere to the silhouette and size of the wearer. These ready-made suits may be convenient, but they often result in an ill-fitting garment, which is ultimately detrimental to its longevity. A well-made bespoke suit is tailored to the specific measurements of an individual and flatters the wearer’s physique. Additionally, check to see whether a suit jacket is fused, half-canvas, or full-canvas. The superior of the three is the fully canvassed jacket. It includes a hand-stitched canvas layer beneath the entire fabric to enhance shape retention and draping. With a fully canvassed suit jacket, you will not need to be concerned about the structure and support of the jacket. Off-the-rack suits often rely on adhesive to bond the lining and fabric, which can hinder their breathability and comfort. Furthermore, always look out for hand-stitched features, as they are a clear indication of quality craftsmanship.
Tip Number Three: Look Out for the Smaller Details
When creating a suit, a tailor should be dedicated to precision. Look out for neatly sewn and high-quality buttons, carefully executed pick-stitching, and pattern matching throughout the garment. Everything should be clean-cut and reinforced to prevent all sections of the suit from fraying. When a suit contains these subtle decorative details, it adds a magnificent amount of elegance and sophistication to its entire appearance. It is essential to avoid a suit that is misaligned in any way, as this is a sign that it was made without care, consideration, and passion. Additionally, to ensure maximum quality, these details should never be machine-sewn. Hand-stitched details are a tell-tale sign that you have invested in something of impeccable quality.
Tip Number Four: Know the Practical Indicators of a Suit
Some practical indicators can help you identify the quality of any suit. Observe the labels within it; this will give you an indication of how reputable the tailor who made it is. Always opt for someone with a legacy of meticulous craftsmanship and a collection of positive testimonials. The more you pay attention to who is creating the suit, the more likely it is that you will invest in something that will stand the test of time. It is also a good idea to thoroughly inspect the lining of the garments for clean, secure, and quality stitching to ensure structural integrity. A well-made suit should be well-finished, with no puckering along the seams or wrinkling. Additionally, fabric reserves and monograms will inform you of its quality. When visiting a bespoke tailor, ensure the service they are providing is fully personalised, and they pay full attention to your requests and desires, offering constant professional guidance. A suit is an investment, so ensure you’re investing in quality.
Tip Number Five: Final Touches and Practical Checks
The final touches of a well-made suit make a massive difference. A collar should be swell-constructed to maintain constant shape. It should sit snugly against the neck to create a polished look. The lapels should lie flat across the chest with no puckering or visible line, and the shoulder construction should enhance the overall comfort and style. If you feel unsatisfied with any of the suit’s finishing touches, it is worth contemplating whether or not it is the right suit for you. Every inch should align with the natural curve of your shoulders with no sagging, and the fabric should be resilient to scrunching. Before taking a suit home, carry out an inspection and test the fabric to ensure it will maintain shape and be with you for a long time to come. Additionally, consider factors such as ease of care and maintenance when selecting your suit fabric to ensure it is something you are willing to care for correctly. Depending on the usage of your suit, it will require a particular level of care and attention to ensure longevity.
Experience Ultimate Quality Craftsmanship
As one of Bangkok’s longest-serving and highest-quality bespoke tailors, Patrick & Co is here to guide you through all the considerations worth making when investing in a well-made suit. If you need advice on your next bespoke masterpiece, contact us today, and our professional artisanal tailors will be happy to help in any way they can