There comes a point in time when everyman needs to opt for a made to measure shirt and end what is set to be an increasingly unflattering affair with off the peg options.

Shirts are a symbol of elegance and refinement and like a man’s shoes or choice of suit, tell us so much about him and his mind set. Though the off the shelf option is the most common sort of shirt there is, it’s by far the lease attractive option for those choosing a shirt.

The made to measure shirt is the foundation of so many outfits and if it fits well, then the rest of the outfit stands aeons more of a chance of looking fantastic too. The purchase of made to measure options is on the increase too and more and more of us are coming to our senses and opting for a shirt to suit us as individuals.

Like individuals the made to measure shirt does create the need for some consideration and for anyone delving into this area for the first time there are things to consider. So, here are some things to keep in mind.

Measurements

Of course, the reason to go for a made to measure suit is that it’s created around you and your body size and shape. So, getting the correct measurements is of pivotal importance. It’s essential that the tailor takes your measurements.

Measurements should be taken around the largest circumference of any area and if you wear a watch generally, wear it with the shirt to ensure it’s taken into account.

White’s Great

The white shirt is the all occasion shirt and as such is often the best selection for a first of many made to measure shirts. However, one thing to think about is the material that the garment is cut from. We can advise you on what’s best for your specific event or the climate you’ll be wearing it in and guide you in relation to what’s best.

Collars

There are so many collar options out there and deciding on what’s the most suited is often a quite difficult decision. One of the most important considerations here is the face shape. Often tailors will attach a basic collar to the shirt as this allows change of mind. When the person gets to the final fitting they can then decide if they require a change or not.

Cuffs

The cuff itself is not nearly as much of an issue as there are two options – double cuff or a button cuff – the former being used for cufflinks. The only real decision left is how many buttons does a double cuff require? The general rule is that a person chooses one or two for business and for a leisure shirt that they choose three.

Details

Great shirts are measured by the details and the hallmarks of good craftsmanship are found in the buttons, stitching, fabric and cut.

The Big Day

The day you get your new custom shirt, you’ll need to ensure it fits properly. This means trying it on. A good made to measure shirt should not pull, be tight or show flesh anywhere. If any of these happen it signifies that the measurements were not taken correctly.

For example you should be able to get two fingers between the collars of your shirt when the top button is closed. In addition, the sleeves of the shirt should be able to cover most of your upper hand and it shouldn’t be possible to get wrists through them without unfastening cuff buttons.

A made to measure shirt is a wonderful thing and it’s certainly more than worth the plunge and a stop on the roadmap to sartorial success.

About the Author

Darren Leahy is a fashion lover and owns a number of bespoke shirts. He has written for a number of the world’s largest fashion blogs.