Step 1: Initial Consultation & Design
The process begins with a one-on-one session to establish the suit’s purpose, such as a wedding, business, or formal event.
- Fabric Selection: The customer chooses from thousands of cloth options, considering weight, color, and pattern. For a three-piece suit, a matching or contrasting waistcoat fabric is selected at this time.
- Style Options: The customer defines specific details, including the jacket’s lapel style (notch or peak), button configuration, pocket types, and the waistcoat’s design (single or double-breasted).
- Personalization: Choices for linings, buttons, and monograms are finalized.
Step 2: Precise Measurements
A master tailor takes 20 to 40+ body measurements to create a unique blueprint.
- Posture Analysis: Beyond numbers, the tailor notes the customer’s natural stance, shoulder slope, and movement to ensure the suit drapes naturally.
- Pattern Creation: These measurements are used to draft a custom paper pattern from scratch, unique only to that customer.
Step 3: The Baste Fitting (The “Skeleton”)
Roughly 2 to 4 weeks after the initial meeting, the customer returns for the first fitting of a partially constructed garment.
- Temporary Stitching: The suit is held together with white basting thread and lacks a lining or finished pockets.
- Adjustments: The tailor uses chalk and pins to mark necessary changes to the jacket, trousers, and waistcoat while they are on the customer’s body.
Step 4: The Forward (Second) Fitting
Occurring 3 to 4 weeks after the baste fitting, the suit is now more advanced in its construction.
- Refinement: The tailor checks the refined fit of the shoulders, waist suppression, and the drape of the waistcoat.
- Detail Verification: Final checks are made on sleeve length and trouser break.
Step 5: Final Fitting & Finishing
Once construction is 95-100% complete, a final session ensures absolute perfection.
- Hand-Finishing: Expert tailors add hand-stitched buttonholes, finalize the lining, and perform a final press of the garment.
- Last Tweeks: If minor adjustments are still needed, they are typically completed within one week.
Step 6: Collection
The completed three-piece suit is ready for the customer to take home. Most tailors recommend a final try-on to ensure total satisfaction before the remaining balance is paid.