Bespoke, made-to-measure and off-the-peg: what is the difference?

These three terms get used loosely, and that is usually deliberate. A lot of what is sold as bespoke is not. Here is what each one actually means, in plain terms, so you know what you are paying for.

Off-the-peg

Off-the-peg is a finished garment made by machine (and glue) to a standard size. You buy it as it is, and any changes are alterations to something already built. It is quick and it is cheaper, but the fit is a compromise from the start. You are being fitted to the suit, not the other way around.

Made-to-measure

Made-to-measure starts from an existing pattern that is then adjusted to your measurements. It is (or can be) a better fit than off-the-peg because the pattern is hopefully tweaked to you, but it is still working from a template. Your choices of cloth and detail are usually limited to a set range and it’s still machine sewn and mostly glued together.

Bespoke

Bespoke starts with nothing. There is no pre-existing pattern. The garment is cut for you alone, built around your measurements, your posture and how you actually move. You choose the cloth, the construction and the details. It takes longer and it costs more, because far more work goes into it, but the result fits you in a way the other two cannot.

Which is right for you

If you want something quickly, and fit and comfort is not your priority, off-the-peg is fine. If you want a better fit (and a bit more comfort) within a set range of options, made-to-measure does the job. If you want a garment made properly, cut to you and built to last for years, that is bespoke.

At Salt Bespoke we make fully bespoke pieces, and we come to you to do it. If you are not sure which you need, that is exactly the sort of thing we talk through on a first visit.