Tailoring is an art form, and investing in bespoke pieces of clothing will instantly elevate your wardrobe and take your sartorial style to another level. While off-the-peg clothing can be acceptable in many situations, there's nothing quite like putting on a shirt, suit or pair of tailored trousers that have been expertly crafted to fit you and your preferences.

Ordering bespoke clothing for the first time can feel a little daunting, which is why we're here today to demystify the process and equip you with everything you need to know in order to approach the process with confidence.

Step One: Selecting your Tailor

The process begins with an initial consultation with your tailor. A simple search for a "tailor near me" is likely to provide you with at least a handful of different tailoring options, so it's important to read online reviews from past customers to determine the quality of the craftsmanship that goes into every bespoke piece.

We recommend selecting a tailor who offers in-person appointments rather than just phone or email consultations, as this will ensure that your garments fit you and your personal style perfectly. Many of the most respected tailors offer both showroom and travelling services, which means that your tailor can visit you at your office or at home for optimal levels of convenience.

Step Two: Navigating Your Initial Consultation

Wherever your consultation takes place, this initial meeting between you and your tailor is an opportunity for you to set out your expectations and explain exactly what you're looking for. Your clothier will work to understand everything from the nuances of your personal style to the occasions and events at which you plan to wear your bespoke garments. They will also share their expert recommendations with regard to the styles and materials that will work best.

It's always worth remembering that the best bespoke pieces are a true collaborative effort between you and your clothier, so don't be afraid to voice your thoughts and opinions at every stage.

Step Three: The Cloth Selection Process

Your clothier will share a selection of cloth swatches with you from the world's leading manufacturers, such as linen from Ireland, Mohair from South Africa, and merino wool from Australia.

Cloth comes in a wide variety of finishes, colours and weights, all of which will contribute to the look, feel and fit of your bespoke garments. Your tailor will have the knowledge to help you select the right cloth for your requirements and tastes, and will never pressure you to make a quick decision.

Once you have selected your preferred cloth, you and your tailor will work together to select suitable trims and linings to create a cohesive and supremely stylish finished garment.

Step Four: The Styling Stage

When it comes to bespoke tailoring, details matter. Even the smallest design flourishes can transform a classic and timeless suit into a contemporary two piece that makes an instant impression. From cuts to thread colours and button shapes to embroidery embellishments, there are countless ways to personalise your garments to ensure that they genuinely reflect your personality and your personal style.

To help you visualise how your finished garment will look, your tailor may use CGI technology to create a virtual mock-up that will give you both a complete design overview and enable you to hone in on even the smallest details.

Step Five: Taking Your Measurements

Once the style of your garment and your preferred cloth, trims and linings have been selected, your tailor will take your measurements in order to deliver a perfect fit.

This process is more involved than simply measuring your leg length and taking your waist measurement, with the most proficient clothiers taking at least 35 precise measurements and considering everything from the position of your shoulders to your overall posture.

It is at this point that you will put down a deposit and arrange an additional appointment for the fitting of your bespoke garments. While it is natural to be keen to try on your bespoke clothing for the first time, it is important to remember that a lot of care and attention goes into every high quality bespoke garment, which is why the best mens tailors take at least six to eight weeks to craft your bespoke clothing.

Step Six: Fitting Your Bespoke Garments

The fitting appointment is one of the most anticipated elements of the entire process, and it's always worth the wait. As you try on your bespoke garments, your tailor will examine every detail and make any minor adjustments to deliver the best possible fit.

When those adjustments have been made and your final balance has cleared, your new bespoke garments are ready to be worn. As wearing clothing out in the real world is sometimes a little different to in the showroom, the best tailors offer free adjustments and pressing services to ensure that you are fully satisfied with your garments.

Harris & Howard offer a fully bespoke tailoring service specialising in the creation of fine gentlemen's garments with expert craftsmanship and unparalleled attention to detail. Please explore our website to learn more.