Getting a suit tailored just for you is a nice way to enhance your wardrobe. A bespoke suit can bring you confidence and the knowledge that you are wearing an entirely unique garment. Meeting with your tailor for a fitting, however, does require some preparation on your part before your appointment. Here are 3 things that you can do to make your next bespoke suit fitting a smooth and effective process. 

1) Think about your ideal fabric.

One of the most important elements of your suit is the fabric. Paired with a well-crafted overall design, the right material can make your vision come to life. You will want to choose a fabric that can adapt nicely throughout more than one season. As such, look for fabrics that are lightweight for the summer but also resilient enough to keep you warm in cooler months. Be sure to have your desired fabric in mind when you meet with your tailor. These fabric options are all good possibilities:

• Worsted wool - versatile wool for different climates that is stronger and smoother than other traditional wools
• Tweed - warm and sturdy material that comes in many patterns and colors
• Cotton - lightweight fabric that is used to make summer garments
• Flannel - flexible and soft fabric that is popular for its breathability and warmth in the winter

2) Know what features you want to add to the design of your suit.

Since your tailor will be building a suit for you from start to finish, there are a great deal of special details that you may wish to include. You will need to have an overall vision and knowledge of some basic elements to help your tailor turn your design into a reality. You don't need to know every tiny nuance, but ask yourself some questions prior to your appointment. Are you hoping for a casual two-piece suit or a formal three-piece suit? Do you want a single-breasted jacket with buttons down the center or a double-breasted jacket with decorative buttons? Would you like vents on the back of the jacket or a cuff on the bottom of the pants? Do you like the look of a standard lapel or a more modern lapel with no notches? You should also take some time to look at pictures of suits that you admire and bring photographs with you that can give your tailor an idea of your inspiration.

3) Advocate for yourself.

The process of creating a bespoke suit from scratch will require you to attend two or more fittings to make sure that the finished product is perfectly tailored to your needs. During the fittings, if something doesn't look or feel right, don't hesitate to let your tailor know. The purpose of the fittings is to make adjustments as necessary, so it's important that you keep your tailor in the loop if the suit is not shaping up quite as you had planned. Be sure to make your concerns known, and ask your tailor any questions that you have.

Using the tips above, you will be well-prepared to work with a tailor at a bespoke suit fitting to fully craft your vision.