ALPHA MALE: Custom Bespoke Suits

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Marc Streisand, GoLocal Men's Style Expert

All suits are not created equal. The high price tags that come with your Zegnas, Guccis, and Cucinellis often reflect a level of material, craftsmanship, and style that are not found on the rack at Costco. That said, the most expensive suit in the world is not always the best looking suit. A suit that fits like a dress or wrestling singlet won’t look good, even if its crafted from the world’s finest European fabrics.

We firmly believe that every man should have one elegant, high-end suit that fits like a glove. Not everyone can afford a beautiful suit for everyday of the month; we’re talking that close the deal, give the presentation, and ask your boss to double your salary suit. This is your Mariano Rivera suit, a guarantee close every time. If you can afford 30 beautiful suits, great… but if your budget doesn’t permit, make sure you have at least one.

The case for a tailor-made suit

While there are plenty of great designers and brands, we recommend a tailor-made suit for ultimate fit. A good tailor has made countless suits, worked with numerous body types, and will build something that works for your body. Even with numerous alterations, it is impossible to get a popular brand suit to fit as well as a tailor-made suit. Additionally, you will be able to choose your design, add customizations, and select your own fabric. Make sure you talk through each step with your tailor; open communication will ensure you get a suit you want…and your tailor will be able to make suggestions to enhance the fit and style of the suit.

You'll get longer life out of it

Finally, let’s not forget your body changes. The suit that fit you and the times perfectly in 1995 may need some adjustment. If you put on some pounds or disintegrate training for your first marathon, you’ll need to make alterations to your suit to match. A good tailor will be able to make these alterations or tell you when it is time for a wardrobe refresh.

Marc Streisand is president and owner of Marc Allen Fine Clothiers, and takes the custom clothing business very personally. Having enjoyed a successful career in the clothing industry since 1985, Marc brings his clients extensive specialized experience in menswear. Prior to taking over the Marc Allen store in March 2005, he cultivated his knowledge of luxury male attire in New York and his home state of New Jersey, where he began his vocation at Wallach's Specialty Stores. Nothing gives him greater pleasure, he says, than seeing raw cloth transformed into a custom outfit that can directly impact his customer's lifestyle.