When people hear the word “custom clothing” they immediately think expensive and only for fashionistas. There are a lot of benefits to custom clothing that many people don’t know about. I interviewed a handful of my clients and asked why they buy custom shirts vs off the rack shirts and here 5 reasons why they enjoy custom shirts:
– Store brands and designers have fit models they design and make clothes for. These clothes are then graded or sized up based theirsizing. Men and women today don’t always fit this mold. Often times these brands thing because you have a large chest means you have a large stomach and as a result you are swimming in your shirts. Custom shirts are a great option for anyone who can’t find their fit off the rack. I hear from a lot of my clients they have to buy a shirt for their neck size but then it’s too big everywhere else. Custom shirts solve these fit issues. I take around 20 measurements to help ensure the proper fit. From neck, to chest, sleeve, length, shoulder incline, etc. I take the time to listen to what fit issues my clients are having and help solve them. Custom made means you get to adjust certain aspects such as:
These fit issues and more can be solved with custom shirts.
– With off the rack, the quality isn’t always the priority. It’s about cost effective and mass producing of garments. These clothes don’t go through the hands of professionals who scrutinize every detail. This isn’t the case with custom clothing. Custom tailors value precision. They adhere to the right number of stitches per inch – which keeps the fabric durable. With custom, you get to select the fabrics yourself and not have to pick from what the store has to sell you. I carry many 100% cotton fabrics as well as cotton blends. Since we live in a warm climate, I tend to carry lighter weight fabrics I know people in this part of the country like to wear. I carry a variety of weaves and textures which have an effect on how the shirt will perform – how well air flows through to if the fabric will wrinkle or not. I help inform my clients what fabrics is best for them based on how they like their shirts to perform. These details and options help my clients design a shirt that becomes their favorite shirt.
– There is a limit to how much of “you” is reflected in ready-made clothing. However, custom made clothing allows you to bring out more individuality. You get to be creative. Not only do you get to pick the fabrics and patterns with custom shirts, you also get to select what collar you like, the buttons, cuffs, trim colors, monograms and other design features. There are a lot of options and you decide what the final product will look like. It’s a garment you personally design. Here are some features you get to decide:
– Unlike clothes shopping, the custom-made route is controllable and straightforward. I know that feeling of having to go out of your way for off-the-rack clothing – trying to pick out the best thing. If you don’t like shopping, it’s torture. But when working with a tailor – you’re pretty much guaranteed to get something. You’re told how long it takes to be finished, and then it’s just a matter of waiting. You don’t spend time entering a store to look around or see “sold out” and “unavailable” items. Make sure to communicate well with your tailor and ask questions when you don’t understand. When I work with clients, I like to let them talk and I listen to what their needs are and what clothes issues they are having. Be clear about your needs and preferences. But you should also listen to his/her suggestions or point of view. (This is somebody who’s dressed thousands of customers before!). Even after opening my store, I offer the option of meeting clients at their homes or offices. They appreciate the service and convenience. Many times, we go thought what they have in their closet and are able to merchandise shirts with suits and slacks they already have, and I explain how they can put outfits together with certain shoes and accessories. Custom may cost more but these extra touches and conveniences are worth it.
– The materials used, overall the quality is better and therefore fewer problems to face later on. You’ll avoid paying for lots of repairs (or even replacements). Any issues that may happen over time can be dealt with easily by a skilled tailor (they’re usually tiny adjustments). In this consumer-driven world of temporary goods, you want to be a smart buyer. Even with online shopping, consumers today want to feel fabrics and know it’s a good quality. Online shopping is convenient, but it isn’t always what you thought you would get. With custom, you feel the fabrics, review samples, talk to a tailor who will ensure it will fit and correct it if it doesn’t. For my clients who are hesitant, I suggest starting with one shirt and wearing it to make sure they like it. Instead of making 6 and not liking any of them. It can be an adjustment the first time you wear something that fits correctly and because it can be an investment, I suggest just ordering 1 or 2 and testing it. I highly recommend this for anyone who hasn’t worn custom clothing before.
To schedule a personal fitting or to learn more about the benefits of custom clothing, call (602-301-6987) or email (mary@qcontrary.com).
