Tailor Made

Before we dive into the complex world of men's shirts, I figured a few ground rules should be laid out as a guide to help our fashionable followers through some of the basics.

First things first, its time to get a tailor. The days of half size or big dress shirts or pants are over, it’s time to perfect that clean cut look on a whole new level. And this isn't limited to formal wear either. Casual wear such as jeans and everyday dress shirts sometimes need that extra snip for the form fitting look. I understand the idea can be a little scary, most people are unsure of what exactly a tailor can do for them. I will admit I was a bit nervous on my first trip, but a good tailor can take a good garment and turn it into a great one. I will not take the time to explain every sizing detail from big to small, but you should understand that most of us are not cut exactly to the mold of your normal off the rack shirt. Tailors are the magical men who are able to fix most of your apparel sizing problems, and the best part is they are anxious to do so. Unfortunately, not every tailor is worth his yardage, so here are a few things to find out from a tailor before you trust your most important garments to their scissors.

1. DO NOT be afraid to ask questions. It is your clothing, make sure it is done the way you want it. This should also apply to your tailors capabilities, odds are they have been asked to do everything under the sun already, so whatever you have in mind should be no surprise.
2. Ask for references. Any tailor worth his salt will have a strong list of clients willing to answer some questions for you about their work.
3. Ask for samples. Consider your tailor an artist. Look at the work he has done and decide for yourself if they are someone you can work with, match your tailors style with your own.
4. Work with your tailor. The best tailors simply provide the look you are aiming for, while adding their two cents in the process. They will be vocal but not demanding, they will listen to what you want (even if you are not sure) and lead you to the final look. The pathway of communication between you and your tailor should be clear and wide open. NEVER be afraid to tell them if you do not like the direction they are taking you.
5. Get some average pricing and lead times. Sometimes you can afford to wait a week for an alteration, sometimes you remember on Wednesday you need the garment on Saturday. Know if your tailor is capable of turning out emergency work, and how much all of it will cost.

Most of these points are related, but they should be a great start in your world of finely tuned clothes. Warning, tailoring has been known to be addictive. Realizing everything you own is capable of fitting you perfectly can be life altering (zing). This form of addiction is perfectly acceptable and recommended.