Made-to-Measure vs Bespoke

When it comes to custom clothing, the terms “made to measure” and “bespoke” are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct approaches to tailoring. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which option is best for your needs.

Made to Measure

Made to measure garments are crafted from a pre-existing pattern that is modified to fit your measurements. During the process, you choose from a range of fabrics and styles, and a tailor adjusts the standard pattern to better suit your body. While this approach offers a higher degree of customization than off-the-rack clothing, it doesn’t provide the same level of personalization as bespoke tailoring. Made to measure is generally more affordable and quicker to produce, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance between fit, quality, and cost.

Bespoke

Full canvas bespoke tailoring represents the pinnacle of custom clothing, starting with a unique, hand-drawn pattern based on your precise measurements and posture. At McMahan’s, we typically streamline the process to ensure a timely delivery without compromising on quality. By taking extensive measurements upfront, we often construct the complete garment with remarkable accuracy, minimizing the need for multiple fittings. While traditional bespoke methods involve several fittings, our efficient approach generally requires only 1-3 fittings, if any, to fine-tune the final piece. This saves significant production time, delivering a garment that fits like a second skin and exudes sophistication with minimal delay.

Key Differences

Understanding the distinctions between made to measure and bespoke tailoring is essential for making an informed decision about your custom clothing. Here, we outline the primary differences in pattern creation, fit, customization, process, cost, and time to help you choose the option that best suits your needs.

Pattern Creation

Made to measure adjusts a standard pattern, while bespoke creates a unique pattern from scratch with full canvas construction, tailored to your needs.

Fit

Made to measure will offer a much better fit than anything off-the-rack, but bespoke provides a perfect fit tailored to your body style.

Customization

Made to measure offers limited options, while bespoke allows nearly unlimited personalization in every detail.

Process

Made to measure typically involves one or two fittings, whereas bespoke involves multiple fittings and exacting measurements for a flawless fit.

Cost and Time

Made to measure is more affordable and quicker to produce, whereas bespoke requires more time and a higher investment.

What's Right For You

Choosing the Right Option

If you value a high degree of customization, impeccable fit, and the finest craftsmanship, bespoke tailoring is the ideal choice. For those seeking a more cost-effective option with a good fit and some level of personalization, made to measure is an excellent alternative. At McMahan’s Clothing, we specialize in bespoke tailoring, ensuring that each garment is a unique masterpiece crafted to your exact specifications. Whether you opt for bespoke or made to measure, our commitment to quality and service guarantees a superior clothing experience.