Introduction to Custom—The Essentials

Today, most clothing is mass-produced, so creating your own custom garments can be a great way to express your unique sense of style. Though the world of custom clothing can be intimidating, understanding the essentials can help you to learn to navigate it, so you can begin creating pieces that are all your own.

Threadwell’s custom clothiers are there every step of the way when it comes to creating the perfect custom suit for you. You can use this guide to dip your toes into some of the most versatile creations. So, where should you start?

Must-have—navy suit

A well-fitting navy suit is a closet staple. The navy blue men’s suit has its roots in the British Royal Navy. British officers were required to wear a dark color of blue to contrast with a bright white shirt as their official uniform. This uniform became so popular that many other navies around the world began to adopt it. The term “navy blue” was coined in the 1840’s.

Traditionally, men wore navy blazers when interviewing for jobs, or to elevate their outfits. A navy suit can be worn as a two-piece and hold its own, with a vest to spice things up, or as a sport coat with denim for a more casual look. 

Today, the navy blue blazer and suit continue to be some of the most versatile pieces of clothing in a man’s wardrobe because they can be paired with a wide variety of colors and textures. Due to its versatility, the navy suit is a perfect place to start when building your custom wardrobe.

Classic color options

Don’t really wear navy? Tan, charcoal, brown, and black are all very versatile and are classic color options to choose from for your first suit. These colors check all the boxes for a great suit staple and can be mixed and matched to fit any occasion.

Formal wear

When you receive an invitation to an event and it says “black tie” that almost always means that you should wear a tuxedo. A classic tuxedo will serve your formal needs for years to come. You can keep it classic using navy blue or black jacquard for a timeless and fresh look you can use for any formal occasion. 

Another option is to wear a dinner jacket. A dinner jacket is a formal jacket of a different color worn with your tuxedo pants. Choosing this option for formal wear is a great way to express your personal style while still adhering to the dress code of the event you’re attending.

Autumn/winter staples

There are so many different fabric options you can choose from when it comes to autumn and winter staples. For an easy transition from autumn to winter, select velvet or corduroy textiles. These soft, breathable fabrics are made from cotton and will keep you warm without causing you to overheat. 

Wool and cashmere are more great transition options. You can choose from many different fabric weights for your suit, that will ensure you stay warm outdoors, while still allowing you to breathe indoors.

Other fall and winter staples include darker colors such as indigo, dark green, black, and navy, as well as patterns such as tartan, plaid, and check. These colors are easy to mix and match and you won’t go wrong with whatever you choose. 

Spring/summer staples

Some people may find it hardest to dress for spring/summer. The weather is getting warmer, and you want to stay cool, without sacrificing style. 

Some of the best fabrics for spring/summer are linen and cotton because they allow you to stay both cool and stylish. Linen is a classic that is very strong and absorbent, making it the perfect summer fabric. Linen comes in a variety of colors that you can easily layer to stay warm on cool spring days, while being prepared for the weather to warm up.

Cotton seersucker is another great fabric option due to its breathability and anti-wrinkle tendencies. Seersucker is a thin puckered fabric that is typically made out of cotton. Often it is striped or checkered, but not always, making it perfect for spring and summer months where lighter, brighter colors are on trend.

Though you can really wear almost any color, lighter and brighter colors will help you to stay cool in the summer heat. Gingham, stripes, and checks are classic staples that you can wear to feel fashion-forward all spring and summer long.

What now?

Custom clothing is really all about expressing your personality and creating items that you can mix and match to build a wardrobe that you love. Now that we’ve given you a few ideas for some closet essentials, you’re ready to begin crafting some garments you can wear for many years. 

Make an appointment to start designing today. Our custom clothiers are here to guide you every step of the way, from fabric choices, to thread colors and buttons, so you always leave with something you love.