Sartorially Yours Meet our master tailors and discover the Made-to-Measure lifestyle
There is still nothing quite as empowering as a perfectly tailored suit; one that flatters in all the right places and cleverly conceals the rest. It says in an instance, that one is refined and disciplined with an air of distinction that comes only with the knowledge that one is wearing something that is made for him only.
And therein lies the true soul of Made-to-Measure: its ability to take the wearer’s personal needs and personality into full consideration, bringing out the identity through a uniquely crafted and considered suit.
There is also a distinct culture and lifestyle that surrounds the world of tailoring. “It is intimate and subtle,” says Frederic Gelberg, Lanvin Made-to-Measure Manager. “Things evolve slowly from season to season but it is all in the signature details in cut and finishing which is known only to the person wearing the suit. It’s also about being open and appreciating quality and being ready to try new things.”
He recalls his favourite tailoring memory with a Prince (who shall remain nameless) at his palace. “In the end, it was actually his three-year-old son who chose the fabrics. It was a very touching and funny moment.” And one that highlights the spirit of what personalisation can come to mean.
It is not only about the suit of course, as each element of the total look becomes a consideration. “Every shoe serves a purpose,” says George Glasgow Jr., shoe aficionado and Chief Executive Officer of the iconic British shoemakers George Cleverley. “The first shoe should be a classic lace-up Oxford. Most people would say in black, but I’m going to say in a nice dark brown calf. I say this because a classic brown calf Oxford can be worn with blue suits, grey suits and lots of different flannels for a work environment.”
Next, comes the finishing touches. Pocket squares, cufflinks and ties – these all serve to complement your look, not to overwhelm. The key word here is balance. But for real connoisseurs, it is all about the personalised watch. George Bamford, the man behind Bamford Watch Department and the king of Rolex customisation has been expertly creating new timepieces for those who are looking for something extra special. “Watches have a story and a soul which carry history and memories, and personalising your watch to highlight the stories your watch carries is a wonderful thing,” he says. “A significant watch in my life was a 1978 dark blue Milgauss which has been with me through key moments in my life. I wore this watch when I got engaged to my wife, when we got married and when my children were born. It was all happenstance but it is one of those watches I turn to in times of joy. I love it and that it represents my view of individuality and luxury as it is a snap shot of a special period of time.”
When all the components of masculine style come together as one, there is little else that can compare to the strength, grace and finesse of Made-to-Measure.
Experience the perfect fit of a made-to-measure suit, custom-made and exquisitely crafted by master tailors of the world’s top tailoring brands. Make an appointment now for a private session with a master tailor of your choice.
