There is a distinct psychological shift that happens the moment a man puts on a garment made specifically for him. It isn't just about the fabric or the brand; it’s about the precision of the fit and the confidence that follows. In the world of professional and formal attire, custom suits for men represent the pinnacle of personal style and sophisticated dressing.
At 700 Shop, we have spent over 60 years helping the men of Indiana, Pennsylvania, and beyond navigate the complexities of fine tailoring. We believe that a suit is more than just a uniform; it is a statement of intent. Whether you are walking down the aisle, heading into a high-stakes boardroom meeting, or attending a gala, the right suit can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to succeed in your custom clothing journey.
Why Choose Custom? The Power of Personalization
When you browse a standard suits collection, you are looking at garments designed to fit a "standard" body type that rarely exists in nature. Most off-the-rack suits are cut generously to ensure they can be altered down, which often results in a silhouette that feels bulky or disproportionate.
The Perfect Fit
The most immediate benefit of choosing custom suits for men is the fit. A custom-tailored garment accounts for the nuances of your physique: the slope of your shoulders, the arch of your back, and the exact length of your arms. When a suit fits perfectly, it doesn't just look better; it feels lighter. You aren't fighting against the fabric; the fabric is moving with you.
Unrivaled Quality and Longevity
Custom suits are built to last. Unlike mass-produced options that may use fused (glued) interlinings that bubble over time, custom garments often utilize half-canvas or full-canvas construction. This allows the suit to drape naturally and actually "break in" over time, much like a pair of high-quality leather shoes. At 700 Shop, our expert consultants guide you toward fabrics and construction methods that offer the best return on your investment.
Understanding the Custom Landscape: MTM vs. Bespoke
For many, the terminology around custom clothing can be confusing. To succeed in your purchase, it’s important to understand what you are getting.
- Ready-to-Wear (RTW): These are the suits you see on the rack. They are pre-made and require significant tailoring to achieve a decent fit.
- Made-to-Measure (MTM): This is the most popular entry point into custom clothing. An existing pattern is modified based on your specific measurements. You get to choose the fabric, buttons, and lining.
- Bespoke: This is the ultimate level of customization. A unique paper pattern is drawn from scratch for the individual. It involves multiple fittings and a high degree of hand-finishing.
At 700 Shop, we specialize in a high-touch consultant-led process that bridges the gap between these worlds, providing the expertise of a master tailor with a selection that rivals the best shops in the country. You can learn more about our history of excellence on our About Us page.
The 700 Shop Process: 60+ Years of Expertise
Choosing a custom suit shouldn't be intimidating. Our process is designed to be as enjoyable as it is precise. We’ve been at the corner of 7th and Philadelphia St. for over 60 years, and in that time, we’ve refined the art of the consultation.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
We start by listening. What is the occasion? Are you looking for a versatile navy suit for business, or a show-stopping tuxedo for a wedding? Our expert consultants will help you narrow down the vast selection of fabrics based on your needs, skin tone, and lifestyle.
Step 2: Fabric and Detail Selection
This is where the fun begins. We offer a large selection of premium wools, silks, and linens from the world’s finest mills. But it doesn't stop at the exterior fabric. You will choose:
- The Lining: From subtle solids to bold patterns that show off your personality.
- The Buttons: Horn, mother-of-pearl, or modern composites.
- The Lapels: Notch for versatility, peak for formality, or shawl for a classic tuxedo.
- Monogramming: Having your name or a special date stitched inside the jacket is the ultimate mark of a custom piece.
Step 3: Precise Measurements
Our consultants take dozens of measurements to ensure a flawless profile. We look at things you might not consider, such as your posture and how you prefer to wear your dress pants. This ensures that the final product doesn't just look good in a mirror, but stays comfortable while you're sitting or moving.
Building the Complete Look
A suit is only as good as the items that support it. To truly succeed with your custom suit, you need to consider the surrounding elements.
The Foundation: Dress Shirts
A custom suit deserves a high-quality dress shirt. Whether you prefer a crisp white slim-fit or a subtle lavender Oxford, the collar and cuffs must complement the jacket's proportions.
The Finishing Touches
Accessories are the exclamation point of your outfit. We recommend pairing your custom suit with:
- Shoes: High-quality leather shoes are essential.
- Belts: Always match your belt leather to your shoe leather.
- Leather Goods: A slim wallet ensures you don't ruin the lines of your custom trousers with a bulky pocket.
Why a Custom Suit is a Great Investment
While the upfront cost of a custom suit is higher than an off-the-rack alternative, the "cost-per-wear" is often much lower. Because the suit is built better and fits correctly, it undergoes less stress at the seams and maintains its shape for years.
Furthermore, the versatility of a well-chosen custom suit means you can wear it more often. A custom charcoal grey suit can be dressed up with a tie for a wedding, or worn as a "broken" suit: using the jacket as a blazer with casual pants for a business-casual dinner.
The 700 Shop Commitment
When you choose 700 Shop for your custom suits for men, you aren't just buying a garment; you are joining a tradition. Our 60+ years in business have taught us that the relationship between a man and his clothier is built on trust. We take pride in the personal touch we provide to every customer who walks through our doors.
We don't just want you to look good for one night; we want you to have a wardrobe that serves you for a lifetime. If you are ready to experience the difference that expert tailoring and professional guidance can make, we invite you to contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Conclusion
The journey toward owning a custom suit is one of the most rewarding experiences in a man's sartorial life. By focusing on quality, fit, and the expertise of seasoned professionals, you ensure that your investment pays dividends in confidence and style. Remember, fashion trends come and go, but a perfectly fitted suit is timeless.
Visit us at 700 Shop, where we combine modern style with over 60 years of tailoring excellence. Let's build something that is uniquely yours.
Josh Rosenberger
Owner/President, 700 Shop
7th & Philadelphia St: Where Fashion Meets Fit