Best Tailors in London - How to Choose the Right One

• Bespoke Tailoring
• May 13, 2019

Deciding to pay more attention to how you dress is one of the best decisions you will ever make, one which will certainly go a long way to help you get what you deserve. When it comes to dressing right, the fit is mostly what will make or break your look. Having the perfect fit, however, means that you need to be dealing with some of the best tailors in London. How then can you choose the best from this vast pool of tailors?

This task used to be much easier in the past, but it has become really daunting these days. That said, whether you need a tailor to make some suit alterations or craft a bespoke suit, this guide will help you narrow down your options from average tailors to the best tailors in London.

The Evolution of Tailoring in London

London's tailoring scene has undergone significant changes over the years. Let's explore how this evolution impacts your search for the best tailors:

• Traditional vs. Modern Approaches: How do you imagine the best tailors in London have adapted their craft to meet the demands of contemporary fashion? On one hand, there's the weight of tradition – centuries of accumulated knowledge and techniques passed down through generations. On the other, there's the undeniable pull of modernity, emphasising comfort, versatility, and individual expression. The most skilled tailors from London have found ways to marry these seemingly opposing forces, creating garments that are at once timeless and thoroughly modern.
• The Rise of Bespoke Casual Wear: Gone are the days when a tailor's skill was judged solely on their ability to craft the perfect formal suit. Today, the discerning gentleman demands more. Have you ever dreamed of a perfectly fitted pair of jeans or a casual jacket that looks like it was made for you – because it was? The rise of bespoke casual wear has opened up new avenues for personal style. But here's the question that might give you pause: is your ideal tailor versatile enough to handle this shift? Can they bring the same level of expertise and attention to detail to a pair of chinos as they do to a dinner jacket? The best tailors in London certainly can, and isn't it exciting to think about the possibilities this opens up for your wardrobe?
• Technology in Tailoring: In a world where innovation touches every aspect of our lives, how do you envision technology's role in the ancient art of tailoring? It's a fascinating juxtaposition, isn't it? Picture a master tailor with decades of experience in hand-stitching and pattern cutting, now wielding an iPad to show you 3D renderings of your bespoke suit. Or imagine the precision of laser cutting combined with the warmth of hand-finished details. The best tailors in London are embracing these innovations not to replace traditional skills but to enhance them. They're using technology to offer you a more immersive design experience, to achieve even greater precision in measurements, and to bring your sartorial dreams to life in ways that weren't possible before. As you search for your ideal tailor, consider asking about their approach to technology. You might be surprised – and delighted – by what you discover.

Identifying Your Tailoring Needs

Before you set out on your quest for the best tailors in London, take a moment to reflect on your sartorial aspirations. Have you considered the myriad occasions that call for a bespoke garment?

1. Occasion-based Tailoring: Are you looking for a wedding suit, business attire, or casual bespoke pieces?
2. Style Preferences: Now, close your eyes and picture your ideal suit. Does your mind wander to the timeless elegance of classic British cuts, with their structured shoulders and nipped waists? Or are you drawn to more contemporary styles, with their sleeker silhouettes and modern twists on tradition? The beauty of bespoke tailoring lies in its ability to bring your unique vision to life – but first, you must uncover what that vision truly is.
3. Budget Considerations: Lastly, let's address the elephant in the room – budget. It's a delicate subject but an important one. Have you considered how your financial expectations align with the world of top London tailors? Remember, bespoke tailoring is an investment in yourself, a fusion of art and craftsmanship that often comes with a price tag to match. But fear not – the spectrum of options in London's tailoring scene is as varied as the city itself. From Savile Row's storied establishments to hidden gems like Apsley Tailors, there's a perfect match for every budget without compromising quality.

Qualities of the Best Tailors in London

What sets apart the crème de la crème of London's tailoring scene? Look for these key attributes:

The Consultation Process

You need to be clear about your needs, so when meeting a tailor, don't be afraid to ask questions. Don't feel intimidated; you could ask how long you have been a men's tailor. How long does it take for you to craft a bespoke suit? What materials do you use? Find out if the tailor is experienced enough to provide the specific services you need. Having done your research already, you will probably know the kind of fit and the style you want. One last thing you could try is giving them a garment you won't mind ruining.

Your initial meeting with a tailor is crucial. Here's what to expect and how to prepare:

1. Prepare Your Questions: Be bold and ask about experience, materials, and techniques.
2. Bring Inspiration: Photos or garments you admire can help communicate your style.
3. Discuss Timeline: Understand the process and expected delivery dates.

Beyond Suits: Exploring Tailoring Versatility

The best tailors in London offer more than just suit-making. Consider these additional services:

• Shirt Tailoring: The foundation of any great wardrobe.
• Overcoat Craftsmanship: Essential for London's unpredictable weather.
• Bespoke Casual Wear: Elevate your everyday style with tailored casual pieces.

The Apsley Bespoke Tailoring Advantage

At Apsley Tailors, we pride ourselves on combining traditional craftsmanship with modern efficiency:

• Rich Heritage: Over 130 years of tailoring excellence.
• Efficient Turnaround: Bespoke suits crafted in as little as 1-2 weeks.
• Affordable Luxury: Starting prices from £1,500 for bespoke suits.

Making Your Decision

Firstly, your goal should be to find an excellent tailor you will want to work with for a long time. For that to happen, you will need to do proper research while having that idea in mind. This is important because you might just need to make some suit alterations today, but next week you might need something more extravagant like a wedding suit made from scratch. This is why you need to choose wisely the first time to avoid going through that process again.

Curious about the magic that happens in the legendary workshops of Savile Row? Discover the world of impeccable craftsmanship and personal style in our guide: What is a Bespoke Suit? - Your Journey with Savile Row's Master Tailors. From your first fitting to the final stitch, learn how London's finest artisans create suits that don't just fit your body, but elevate your entire presence.

Choosing the best tailor in London is a personal journey. Consider these final tips:

1. Trust Your Instincts: The right tailor should make you feel comfortable and understood.
2. Read Reviews: Past clients' experiences can offer valuable insights.
3. Consider Long-term Relationships: The best tailors become trusted style advisors over time.

Looking for the best tailors in London is no easy job. Luckily for you, you have already found one. Let Apsley Tailors help you to transform your style. Get in touch with us for more information.

Are you ready to embark on your bespoke journey with London's finest tailors?

Best wishes,

Arshad Mahmood

Article Updated: 29.08.2024