How to choose a good tailor?

Don’t know how to choose a tailor, or maybe you are asking yourself how can I choose a good tailor?
Let me help you out.

3 things when looking for the best tailor:

1^st – Fit

One of the top things to look for is the fit. It is important to know how the suit will fit.

*Tip: Observe the suit the tailor is wearing and how it fits him. Also, look at previous suits that he has made for his clients.

2^nd – Fabric

Look for brands that are top in the industry such as Ermenegildo Zegna, Dormeuil, Scabal, Ariston, Holland and Sherry, Loro Piana, Marzoni…to name a few.

3^rd – Quality

Inquire if the shoulders are made by hand.

*Tip: look for hand finished stiches on the inside of the shoulder lining. Hand finished stitching should look like uneven stitches.

Inquire if real horse hair canvas is used on the inside of the jacket.

*Tip: Place the pants inside out and see the finishing.

Be aware

Super  110s, 120s, 140s 150s… If you have no idea what these numbers mean, you can skip this part.

If you do, that means you have been sold a suit in the past where the uninformed sales man used this as a selling tool. These Super numbers must be ignored unless comparing 2 suits from the same label.

Do not

Tailors have pride. It is an emotional work for them. If they think you are attacking the garment they interpret it as a personal attack on their work of art. Do not talk down or get upset.

If you would like the suit more adjusted or you’re just not happy with certain details, kindly approach your tailor. Repeat, repeat and repeat what you’re not happy about and they will eventually comply. If the situation makes sense you might even say “It’s not you, it’s me!” 😉 It works.

*Tip: When going back for fittings, and there are things that you would like adjusted, start off your request with, “are you able to…?” or “can you please…?” These words will go a very long way with your tailor.