Looking to place an order in our shop, and not sure if Made-to-Measure or Bespoke is better for you?
This article will help explain the differences between our two fit types.
We will go step-by-step through the ordering process, to illustrate the differences.
Step 1: Choose Your Fabric & Customize Your Design (Bespoke & MTM)
Regardless if you choose Bespoke or MTM, the first step to placing an order with Articles of Style is:
- Choose your fabric (in our shop or from our "off the menu" fabrics)
- Customize your design (click the "customize & add to bag" button).
- Place your order
Click "customize" on the product page to see the design options
Step 2: Provide Your Basic Measurements (Bespoke & MTM)
Once your order is placed, the next step (for Bespoke or MTM) is to provide us with your basic body measurements.
See instructions below:
If you chose Made-to-Measure; our team of fit experts will carefully review your body measurements, then our tailors will begin crafting your garment(s). Delivery time is 5-7 weeks fro the date of purchase.
If you chose Bespoke, we will review your body measurements and begin crafting your try-on fitting garments only - which we will use for your initial bespoke fit assesment.
Custom-made fitting garment (included with bespoke orders)
Step 3: Try-On Fitting (Bespoke Only)
This is where the bespoke magic starts to happen!
Watch this video for an overview of our exclusive bespoke process:
When your try-on garment arrives, you’ll put it on and take four simple photos:
✔ Front view
✔ Left profile
✔ Back view
✔ Right profile
Your fitting garments are already custom-made to your body measurements, but the adjustments we observe and perform during this stage are what make all the difference.
In addition to the photos, you’ll answer a series of questions (such as "How do the shoulders feel?" and "Would you prefer to go wider or narrower with the trousers?") so that our team of tailors can also understand your comfort level and personal style preferences.
Because a great garment isn't just about looking good - it's also about feeling good.
Step 4: Expert Tailors Review Your Fitting & Adjust Your Patterns (Bespoke Only)
Once we review your try-on fitting photos and feedback, our team of real, human pattern-makers and tailors makes all of the necesary adjustments to your patterns to perfect your fit - before we start crafting your final garment(s).
This is where all the bespoke adjustments happen that go beyond "measurements":
- posture adjustments (erect, stooping, assymmetry)
- shoulder slope adjustments (left, right, asymmetry)
- shoulders forward/back
- barrell/flat chest
- pelvis tilt (anterior or posterior)
- arm bend and rotation (left, right, asymmetry)
- button stance placements
- torso/leg ratios
- front/back assymetries (stomach shape/placement)
- hollow lower back
- prominent or flat seat
- trouser rise placement (front and back rise, asymmetry)
- bow-legged or knock knee adjustments
- Arm hold depth and rotation
- Any personal fit preferances or special requests noted during your fitting
Our bespoke process is a real game-changer, and the reason why AOS is respected globally for our fitting expertise and premium online service - no matter your height, weight, size, shape - or location.
Just read some customer reviews from around the world for proof.
You can also find lots of client fitting examples on our blog.
Step 5: Experience the Difference (Final Fit Review)
After adjusting your patterns, we handcraft your final bespoke design to the highest quality standards.
When you receive it, it should fit like a glove right out of the box.
But because we’re obsessed with making it perfect for you, we'll do one last fitting review.
✔ Try-on your final garment.
✔ Take the same four fitting photos.
✔ Answer the same quick fit questions.
If any small tweaks are needed (maybe the pant break needs adjusting or a sleeve is ¼ inch off), we cover the cost of local alterations and update your patterns on file with the changes - so your next orders are flawless from the start.
We also track your wardrobe and make personal recommendations for you each season - to ensure you are building a cohesive, versatile wardrobe that works for you and is built to last the test of time.
Lastly, we can review and adjust your fit at any time. Even if it's years after your purchase - we can always adjust the garment and update your fit on file (if you've gained or lost weight, for example).
GET STARTED
Have more questions? Or ready to get started?
Book the Articles of Style Experience.
We look forward to working with you.
Yours in style,
Dan Trepanier
See more Customer Reviews.