Perfectly made to fit

Updating the ancient Greek and Roman proverb “Clothes make the man” to 21st Century fashion shows that indeed we are what we wear. By Lynda Papesch.

Having custom clothing made for you is unlike buying any ready to wear item purchased at a store. The individual attention to the craftsmanship results in one-of-a-kind classic pieces that often last for years.

How we dress influences how others perceive us, backed up by studies showing that people often make snap judgments about others based on their appearance. One insightful European study found that those dressed in expensive clothes were more likely to be seen as competent and trustworthy than those who were dressed in cheap clothes.

Our style of dressing also hints (or sometimes screams) clues about our character. An integral part of telling that tale falls to tailors, ateliers, and fashion designers these days. Nothing beats having an outfit custom-made, and although it usually costs more, the end result is clothing that skilfully accentuates the wearer’s best body features.

An example is custom-made bridal gowns, and while many embrace the bespoke ethos for their special day, others around the globe know the value of tailored suits and clothing every day of the year.

The artistry of tailoring combines the designing, cutting, fitting and finishing of garments. Examples include Savile Row, 1930s Zoot Suits, and the 1960s “Peacock Revolution” influenced by celebrity tailor Tommy Nutter. His unique suits clad the Beatles, Bianca Jagger and Twiggy. Giorgio Armani, Brioni, and Alexander McQueen were all influenced by tailoring, known for their designs and bespoke suiting.

The evolution of the fashion industry means it is much easier these days to buy well-made suits, dresses and even off-the-rack formal occasion outfits, yet still nothing beats that one-off piece made just for you.