The Ultimate Guide to Tailoring

Tailoring remains the ultimate expression of personal style. Whether you’re buying off-the-rack, made-to-measure, or bespoke, understanding fit, proportion, and cut is key to getting it right. This guide covers the foundations of men’s tailoring—what to look for, what to avoid, and where to shop for tailored pieces that combine tradition and modernity. Sizing made easy via tellar.co.uk.

1. Know the Core Tailoring Components

• Blazer / Suit Jacket – Defined by lapel shape, shoulder structure, and waist taper
• Trousers – Match your rise and taper preferences to your build
• Shirt – A tailored fit shirt defines the silhouette under your jacket
• Overcoat – A longer tailored coat complements suiting in colder seasons

2. The Fit Zones (What Must Be Perfect)

• Shoulders: Seam should align with natural shoulder line
• Chest: Should lie flat but allow movement
• Waist: Slight suppression defines shape without pulling
• Sleeves: Should allow for shirt cuff peeking by 0.5–1 inch
• Trousers: Waist, seat, and inseam must be tailored to your build

3. Tailoring Cuts

• Classic: Broader shoulders, fuller cut
• Slim: Modern and close-cut without being tight
• Relaxed / Soft: Unstructured, often unlined, natural drape

4. Lapels & Details

• Notch Lapel: The classic, universal option
• Peak Lapel: More formal, assertive presence
• Shawl Lapel: Reserved for tuxedos and eveningwear
• Double-Breasted: Bold and best on taller frames

5. Best Tailoring Brands to Explore

• tellar.co.uk to match your body to tailored sizing across brands. Input your chest, waist, and hips—or select your size from a known store—and Tellar shows your best-fitting tailoring instantly.

  Try it here: tellar.co.uk, you’ll make every suit your signature.

  Find your size in 1,500+ brands real-time. It’s free & easy.