Some Advice On Selecting Fabrics…

Some Advice On Selecting Fabrics…

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As suits (at Mr. Neds, NYC)

Over the course of my many experiences with various made to measure shirt and suit companies there are a few things that I have learned, or at least I hope I’ve learned.  One of the most important is how to best select a fabric for one’s garments; and really it is quite simple.  In order to best see how a given fabric will look as a jacket, pants or suit it is best to see it already made as a suit (as seen above).  If that is not feasible it is best to see the largest possible piece of fabric, like a bolt (seen below) and to a lesser extend to have to evaluate the fabric as a swatch (also below).  In a worst case scenario you have to see the fabric as a picture online; which is a problem with many online operations.  Luckily, most will send you swatches of fabric if you request them.

The primary reason for this hierarchy is that it is sometimes difficult to perceive what a fabric will look like as a jacket when you can only see it as a 4×6″ swatch.  For solids and stripes I believe the issue is not nearly as significant as with larger stripes, checks and unique weaves.  Now, I am not saying it is the end of the world if you have to judge your fabric choices via swatches or pictures; as gentlemen have been doing this with success for decades.  But I will say that  if you do have to make your decision based on a small swatch, it becomes even more important to trust your tailor; as he/she should be able to guide you through the fabric selection process in a confident and knowledgeable manner.  And my friends, I do not believe trust can be bought in tailoring, only earned.

Bolts (at Mr. Neds, NYC)
Swatch Books (At My Tailor)

 

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