5 Reasons To Avoid Buying Off-the-Rack

Even If you’re just a beginner to the world of menswear, you’ve definitely come across these terms at some point. Bespoke, off-the-rack. These may be words you’re unfamiliar with. Well, maybe not off-the-rack.

It’s safe to say that having at least one suit isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. Every person will find themself in a situation where they’re going to need a suit, no matter what line of work they’re in.

Triptych photo of a three pinstripe suits with shirt and ties.

But, it’s important to talk about practicality, too. Yes, there will be a situation eventually where you’ll need to wear a suit. In fact, you might need multiple suits depending on your profession. The latter scenario may prompt you to be even more price-conscious. After all, multiple suits don’t come cheap. You may be tempted to save some money by opting for off-the-rack suits.

Nothing can beat the look and fit of a bespoke suit. But, your wallet makes a pretty hard to ignore case. Here is why you’re doing yourself a disservice if you do end up opting for off-the-rack suits over custom suits.

What is an Off-The-Rack Suit?

Before we reveal why exactly off-the-rack suits are a poor choice, let’s first break down the definition of this term, as many people are likely hearing about it for the first time. An off-the-rack suit is exactly what it sounds like: a suit that’s sold as-is, right off the rack. They are produced in a range of standard sizes, designed to fit the majority of men. This makes off-the-rack suits a popular choice for retailers, simply because they don’t have to alter or otherwise customize them in any way, shape or form.

It’s important to note that most off-the-rack suits are not canvassed. Rather, they are fused with the interlining being glued to the shell using a high-heat process. This saves both time and money for the manufacturer, but at the cost of quality. Fusing typically results in a lack of support for the suit’s canvas structure, making them more susceptible to damage over time.

Lifetime value

A custom suit has the highest lifetime value. They are built to last for years as long as you take care of them. The cheaper, machine-sewn materials used in off-the-rack suits won’t have the same durability. Also, and we have to be honest, everyone tends to put on a little weight over the years. Don’t you want a suit that you can still wear after putting on a few extra pounds? An off-the-rack suit is basically done once it stops fitting right. A custom, a bespoke suit is tailored with this in mind. It fits perfectly now, yes, but there is also some excess material in the jacket that can be worked with in order to still provide a perfect fit if you put on another ten pounds or so. Custom suits fit you perfectly, not the 90% or so that many men will settle for. They are designed to hide the body’s irregularities. Have a bit of a paunch? Get your suit tailored around it. Have a shoulder visibly higher than the other? Your suit can be tailored to visually balance them.

It Will Cost You More in the Long Run

The upfront cost of an off-the-rack suit may appear lower than other suits, but you’ll probably end up spending more in the long run. There are two reasons for this, first and foremost off-the-rack suits are low quality, making them more susceptible to damage. Secondly, you’ll probably have to take your off-the-rack suit to a tailor so it fits better. This will cost you more money, negating the otherwise cost-savings benefits offered by this generic style of men’s suits.

Looking your best has tremendous value. It’s far beyond what might be saved buying an off-the-rack suit that you would still need to get altered to fit properly, anyway. A custom suit will last you and the craftsmanship involved will be obvious to discerning eyes. Do yourself a favor and invest in a custom suit.

 Custom Bespoke Suits in NYC, NJ, & Anywhere In The U.S

BBspoke personal service is our specialty and we have many ways to serve you in NJ and NYC Area.  Our custom tuxedo, suit and tailoring services go far beyond just the material itself.  Book an appointment online today. You’ll be fitted so that your new suit has the best look and feel you can buy.