So, you’re exploring the world of custom suiting and words like ‘bespoke’, ‘inseam’ and ‘full-canvas’ are probably being hurled at you at a rate of knots. Confusing? Yes. Does it need to be? Absolutely not.
When it comes to commissioning a custom suit, there’s a key difference to understand – bespoke versus made-to-measure. Any tailor worth their salt should be able to guide you through the other nuances from there.
For the uninitiated, the terms made-to-measure and bespoke may look (and sound) like one and the same. They both have an impermeable sense of mystery, elegance and, well, money, floating around them. And while the terms are often used interchangeably, they are in fact completely distinct processes.
The basics of customisation
The chances of the average bloke wandering into a suit store and fitting something straight off the rack is nil to one unless you resemble a mannequin or a male model. This is because a suit’s fit is based off a series of measurements, not just the chest measurement that you see on the price tag.
Cue customisation.
Whilst broadly perceived as a luxury (read money pit), customisation is actually an incredibly efficient way of ensuring your suit fits from the get-go. It also cuts out that part of the process where your tailor is trying to adjust a pair of size 44 trousers to fit a 32 inch waist. Square peg, round hole – you get the picture.
But made-to-measure or bespoke? Beyond time and money, here we explain the perks of each so you can make an informed decision.
Fit
A made-to-measure suit is based off a customisable digital pattern that is adapted specifically to your body prior to production. For example, if you usually wear a size 42 jacket around the torso but can never find sleeves that are long enough, in made-to-measure, the pattern would be altered to accommodate accordingly.
By Shane Wylie
This has been the toughest of lockdowns, I think most people would agree. I’d personally started to feel a little bit better about the world.
I know some businesses were planning on upscaling and those that were hurting noted they could see a change. Then we’re back into restrictions.
What’s the answer? Well, the greatest thing that I saw during the past month was the amazing reaction to the call for vaccinations. I remember walking past the Convention Centre one Sunday morning at 9am. Now the centre only opens at 9am and there was a line from Gate 4 all the way back across Spencer St and down Southbank. I came back later that day to understand that it was a six-hour wait, but that’s what we need to do.
So, I make this plea to everyone. The one thing we can all do right now to lessen the chance of us heading back into more devastating lockdowns is go get the jab, then follow it up with your second. Epidemiologically we need 80 per cent of the population to be immune to the virus and that responsibility lays with every second individual, so please …
Chamber movements and council initiatives
We are currently in the process of creating a range of short videos to highlight the best of Docklands. We are very aware that Docklands is going to struggle more than anywhere to exit this. The theme of these videos is “This is my Docklands”. You may have seen Tim (Video Cowboys) and I out and about doing these shots. If you have any ideas to contribute to the theme, then please send them along to [email protected]
You will also have seen a good number of vacant shop fronts being decorated with artistic decals. The City of Melbourne has sponsored this initiative and the chamber has provided input and advice into the best locations. You’ll see a massive and beautiful example of these at 351 Docklands Drive.
The Chamber also welcomed 16 new business members this past month, four of which are new businesses to Docklands. Membership to the chamber is free for all of 2021 and includes extensive exposure across our websites, social channels and newsletter.
Docklands Dollars
Docklands Dollars has continued to roll on and you’ll now be aware of the mirror program – Melbourne Money. You can combine both if you are staying two or more nights in Docklands or you can take advantage of Melbourne Money by itself if you are a local. Be quick though, Melbourne Money is expected to be fully exhausted by mid-July. Docklands Dollars, however, is expected to continue for the rest of this year. Docklands Dollars is open for registration at a minimum every Thursday at midday – docklandsdollars.com.au •