Derived from the verb “bespeak,” – to speak for something – the term “Bespoke” in fashion refers to custom-tailored clothing made according to a client’s body silhouette, choice of materials, and design preferences.
Bespoke tailoring originates in London’s Savile Row, a street in Mayfair, central London, known for traditional bespoke tailoring for men since the late 18th century.
Back then, Bespoke tailoring was more than a craft of fashion design; it was an art form that set the standard for excellence in men’s tailoring that still exists today.
Bespoke vs Ready-to-Wear vs Made-to-Measure
Bespoke describes the experience of having a garment custom-tailored according to your needs.
In bespoke tailoring, the tailor provides the fabric, cuts, and stitching options, leaving the customer to make the final choice.
Once the shape, fabric, and stitching method are decided, the craftsman cuts and sews the masterpiece by hand.
Ready-to-wear in fashion is a term used to describe en-masse-produced garments according to international standardised sizes.
Made-to-measure in fashion describes the middle ground between bespoke and ready-to-wear.
In the case of Made-to-Measure, garments are created in standard sizes and later adjusted to fit an individual’s measurements.
Where is Bespoke Fashion Used?
High Fashion
The “Bespoke” way of making clothing is prevalent in high-fashion and haute couture design.
In these instances, garments are created according to the client’s demands, body shapes, materials, and style choices.
Formalwear
The Bespoke way of making clothing is also used for special events like gala dinners or weddings.
In these cases, bespoke tailoring ensures the wearer looks their absolute best.
Business Attire
Most business executives wear a bespoke double-breasted pinstripe suit tailored to meet the rigorous demands of corporate life, are comfortable for long working hours, and have a sharp aesthetic.
Bespoke Fashion Icons
Anderson & Sheppard – pinnacle of men’s suits bespoke tailoring.
Catherine Walker– expert in bespoke gowns with clientele that includes British royalty.
Bespoke Fashion Rules
- In an increasingly automatised fashion industry, Bespoke tailoring is the stalwart of individualism and quality.
- A world apart from a world of Ready-to-wear and Made-to-measure clothes, Bespoke tailoring honours artisanal craftsmanship and unique garments personalised to the client’s needs and body.
- For those seeking more than clothing but an intimate and customised fashion experience, bespoke tailoring is the ultimate sartorial indulgence.
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Take the First Step With The VOU’s Styling Quizzes
Start your style journey with our free resources. First, take our Face Shape Quiz to confirm your face shape and receive initial styling guidance.
Then, discover your most flattering colours with our Seasonal Colour Analysis Quiz.
Learn which garment styles suit you best through our Body Shape Quiz, and find your ideal personal style with our Fashion Style Quiz.
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For comprehensive image development that goes beyond hat selection, The VOU offers expert styling services to ensure your complete look projects success and sophistication.
Our Professional Face Shape Analysis package provides you with a scientific analysis of your exact face shape, personalised hairstyle recommendations, customised facial hair styling guide, expert eyewear selection guidance, and detailed grooming recommendations tailored to your unique features.
For the most comprehensive transformation, consider our Complete Image Transformation Package.
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After years of managing hundreds of fashion brands from London's office of a global retailer, Mandy has ventured into freelancing. Connected with several fashion retailers and media platforms in the US, Australia, and the UK, Mandy uses her expertise to consult for emerging fashion brands create top-notch content as an editorial strategist for several online publications.