It's common for people to misunderstand the terms bespoke and made-to-measure. In fact, many assume they mean the same thing, and yet this is not the case.

Both are distinct from the off-the-rack suits that you can walk out with right away, but there's a key difference. While made-to-measure suits adapt a pre-existing pattern around your measurements, a bespoke suit is created entirely from scratch with no reference to a pre-existing design.

Bespoke suits do cost more than made-to-measure suits and take a little longer to make, so they certainly aren't for everyone. However, they offer an enticing range of benefits that set them apart from made-to-measure suits. Here are just four reasons why they're worth the investment.

1. Superior Fit

Probably the most compelling reason to choose bespoke tailoring over made-to-measure is that the former will deliver a far superior fit. A far greater range of measurements will be taken when you go bespoke to ensure the fit is perfect. Just as a made-to-measure suit will fit much better than an off-the-rack suit, a bespoke suit will fit much better than a made-to-measure suit. That means you'll both look and feel better when you go bespoke.

2. Unparalleled Customization

There's no limit to customization when you invest in a bespoke suit. People often only consider the fit and fabric, but there are so many other options to make a suit completely reflect your own sense of style. Everything from the lapels and lining to thread colours and pocket placement is up to you when you go bespoke instead of made-to-measure. That means you'll end up with something truly unique.

3. Impressive Durability

One reason bespoke suits represent significant investments is that tailors will use the finest materials. They'll also design the suit around your body to ensure the stretching and strain placed on other suits won't cause wear and tear to your bespoke suit. These suits are very much built to last, so you can count on them looking their best for years to come.

4. Start of a Relationship

Creating a bespoke suit is a collaborative process between buyer and tailor, and most people find it an interesting and rewarding experience to help create their suit from the ground up. That relationship can then continue over the years. If you ever need another bespoke suit, your tailor will have your measurements and other details on file, and they'll often have a sense of what colours and fabrics might appeal in suits for different occasions. You just don't build the same connection when you buy a made-to-measure suit. 

For more info, contact a local tailor.