Getting a made-to-measure shirt is about so much more than just achieving a perfect fit. It’s an opportunity to become the designer of your own clothing. You get to choose every detail, from the collar style that frames your face and the cuff that suits the occasion to the exact fabric, pattern, and color that expresses your personality. You can even add personal touches like a monogram or contrasting button stitching. This level of control ensures you get a garment that is uniquely yours. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the key customizations, helping you make informed choices to create one of the best made to measure shirts you’ll ever own.
Key Takeaways
- Made-to-Measure is the Smart Solution for a Better Fit: It bridges the gap between generic off-the-rack sizing and costly full bespoke, offering a personalized fit by modifying a base pattern to your unique measurements.
- An In-Person Fitting is Your Best Bet for Accuracy: While online brands offer tech-based measurement tools, nothing replaces the trained eye of a professional stylist who can account for details like posture and ensure your measurements are precise from the start.
- Look Beyond the Price Tag at Quality and Guarantees: When choosing a company, evaluate the quality of their fabric selection and understand their fit guarantee. A clear policy for alterations or remakes is a sign of a trustworthy brand committed to getting your shirt right.
The Trevor Furbay Standard for Made-to-Measure Shirts
Finding a shirt that fits perfectly can feel like an impossible task. Sleeves are too long, the collar is too tight, or the shoulders just don't sit right. That’s where made-to-measure comes in. It’s the sweet spot between off-the-rack and fully bespoke, giving you a personalized fit without starting from a completely blank slate. At Trevor Furbay, we’ve refined this process to ensure every shirt we create is a true reflection of your style and physique.
Our approach is built on 25 years of experience, combining a deep respect for craftsmanship with a modern eye for style. We believe a great shirt is the foundation of a great wardrobe. It’s not just about taking measurements; it’s about understanding how you want to look and feel in your clothes. From the moment you walk into one of our showrooms in Cincinnati or Columbus, our goal is to make the process of creating your perfect shirt simple, enjoyable, and incredibly rewarding.
What Makes Our Custom Shirts Different
The biggest difference you’ll notice with a made-to-measure shirt is the fit. Unlike off-the-rack options that are designed for a generic body type, our shirts are adjusted to your specific measurements. This means we start with a standard pattern and then modify it to fit your unique shape, from the slope of your shoulders to the length of your arms. The result is a shirt that offers a superior fit and a level of comfort you just can't get from a standard size. It’s the ideal way to get a customized garment that feels like it was made just for you, without the extensive process of full bespoke.
Our Commitment to Premium Fabrics and Craftsmanship
A perfect fit is only half the story; the other half is the fabric. We believe that quality materials are non-negotiable. You can choose from hundreds of premium fabrics, and our stylists are here to help you select the perfect one for your needs, whether it’s a crisp cotton for the office or a soft linen for the weekend. Beyond the fabric, you have complete control over the details. From the collar style and cuff shape to the pocket placement and stitching, every element can be personalized. This is your opportunity to create a shirt that truly expresses your personal style and meets the demands of your lifestyle.
Your Personalized Fitting Experience
We know your time is valuable, which is why we’ve made our fitting process both meticulous and efficient. During your appointment, one of our expert tailors will take precise measurements of your neck, chest, shoulders, and sleeves to adjust our standard pattern to your body. This attention to detail ensures your shirt fits exactly as it should. Most appointments for a custom shirt take about an hour, giving you a fully personalized experience without a huge time commitment. It’s a small investment for a piece you’ll wear and love for years to come. You can book a consultation at any of our locations to get started.
The Best Made-to-Measure Shirt Companies
While nothing beats a hands-on, personalized fitting experience, I get that sometimes you want to explore what’s available online. The digital made-to-measure world has some interesting players, each with a unique approach to getting you a better-fitting shirt. From AI-powered measurements to virtual design tools, these companies offer a different path to custom clothing. Let's look at a few of the most popular options out there so you can see how they stack up.
Proper Cloth: For a Guaranteed Fit
If you spend any time searching for custom shirts online, you’ll quickly come across Proper Cloth. They’ve built a strong reputation for excellent customer service and high-quality materials. As one Wirecutter review noted, their fabric "felt luxurious and expensive," signaling a real commitment to quality. While their prices can be a bit higher than some online competitors, many customers feel it's worth it for the reliable fit and premium feel. They have a straightforward process for taking your measurements online and are known for working with you to get the fit just right, which is a huge plus when you can't be there in person.
Indochino: For In-Person Fittings
Indochino has carved out a unique space by blending online convenience with physical showrooms. With dozens of stores, they offer the option to get measured by a professional, which can take a lot of the guesswork out of the process. This is a great option if you’re nervous about measuring yourself for the first time. They also have a solid policy for getting the fit right; as many online reviews mention, if your clothes don't fit perfectly, they will remake them for free and save your updated measurements for future orders. This commitment to fit provides a nice safety net for your purchase.
iTailor: For Digital Design Tools
For those who love to visualize every detail, iTailor offers an impressive digital experience. Their standout feature is a 3D design tool that lets you see your creation from all angles as you build it. You can experiment with over a thousand different fabrics and countless customization options, from collar styles to cuff shapes. This level of digital interaction makes the design process feel more tangible and creative. If you enjoy playing with the details and want to design your shirt from the ground up on your computer, their platform is one of the most robust out there.
MTailor: For Measuring with Your Phone
MTailor takes a tech-forward approach by using your phone’s camera to get your measurements. Their app guides you through a process that, according to their site, is "20% more accurate than a professional tailor." It’s a bold claim, but it appeals to anyone who wants a quick, modern, and data-driven way to get a custom fit without ever touching a measuring tape. This method is perfect if you value convenience and trust technology to handle the details. For those comfortable with a fully digital process, MTailor offers a unique and innovative way to get custom-fit clothes delivered to your door.
How is Made-to-Measure Different?
When you start exploring custom clothing, you’ll run into a few key terms: off-the-rack, made-to-measure, and bespoke. They might sound similar, but they represent very different approaches to getting a great fit. Understanding the distinctions is the first step to finding clothes that feel like they were made just for you. It’s all about finding the right balance of personalization, time, and budget that works for your lifestyle. Let's break down what each term really means so you can choose your next garment with confidence.
Made-to-Measure vs. Off-the-Rack
Off-the-rack clothing is what you find in most department stores. It’s made for standard, averaged body types, which means the fit is often a compromise. You might find a shirt with sleeves that are the right length but is too tight in the chest, or trousers that fit your waist but are too long. Made-to-measure, on the other hand, starts with a standard pattern that is then adjusted to your specific measurements. A stylist will take your key measurements—like chest, waist, and sleeve length—and alter the base pattern before a single piece of fabric is cut. This process eliminates the guesswork and provides a far superior fit than anything you can buy online without a fitting.
Made-to-Measure vs. Bespoke
If made-to-measure is a modified pattern, bespoke is a completely new one. With a bespoke garment, a pattern is drafted from scratch based on dozens of your specific measurements and your unique posture. It’s the highest level of customization, offering a perfect, one-of-a-kind fit. This detail-oriented process naturally comes with a higher price tag and a longer production time. While a true bespoke piece is incredible, it’s important to remember that the quality of the maker matters most. An excellent made-to-measure shirt from a skilled tailor will always be better than a poorly executed bespoke one. The expertise behind our custom clothing services ensures you get exceptional quality, whichever path you choose.
Why Made-to-Measure is the Perfect Middle Ground
For many people, made-to-measure is the sweet spot. It offers a personalized fit and a level of customization that off-the-rack clothing simply can’t match, but without the significant investment of time and money required for full bespoke. If you consistently find that standard sizes just don't work for your body, made-to-measure is a fantastic solution. You get to select your fabrics and details, creating a piece that fits both your body and your personal style. It’s the perfect way to experience the confidence that comes from wearing a garment made specifically for you, guided by a team that is obsessed with craftsmanship.
How to Choose the Right Made-to-Measure Shirt Company
Finding the right company for your made-to-measure shirts is about more than just clicking "buy." You're looking for a partner who understands fit, quality, and your personal style. With so many options out there, from digital-first brands to traditional clothiers, it can be tough to know where to start. The key is to look past the marketing and focus on the four pillars of a great custom clothing experience: the fabric, the measurement process, the fit guarantee, and the customer support.
Think of it as building a relationship. You want a company that not only offers beautiful materials but also has a reliable process to turn them into a shirt that feels like it was made just for you. Whether you prefer the convenience of an online platform or the hands-on guidance of an in-person consultation, vetting a company on these points will help you invest your money wisely. A great made-to-measure shirt is an incredible addition to any wardrobe, and finding the right maker ensures you get a piece you'll love and wear for years.
Check the Fabric Quality and Selection
The foundation of any great shirt is the fabric. It determines how the shirt feels, how it drapes, and how well it holds up over time. A reputable company will be transparent about where its fabrics come from and offer a wide range of high-quality options, from crisp Egyptian cottons for the office to relaxed linens for the weekend. When you’re browsing, look for variety. A deep selection of weaves, patterns, and colors is a good sign that the company caters to discerning customers. Some online brands offer over a thousand different fabrics, giving you plenty of choices to create something truly unique.
Look at Their Measurement Process
A perfect fit starts with precise measurements, and this is where companies really differ. Some brands rely on you to take your own measurements with a tape measure, often guided by video tutorials. Others use innovative technology to streamline the process. For example, some companies have developed apps that can measure you using your phone's camera, promising accuracy without the hassle. The most reliable method, however, remains a professional fitting. Working with an experienced stylist ensures every measurement is spot-on and allows you to discuss how you want the shirt to fit and feel.
Understand the Fit Guarantee and Alterations Policy
Even with the best measurements, minor adjustments are sometimes needed. This is where a solid fit guarantee becomes your safety net. Before you commit, find out what the company’s policy is if your shirt doesn’t fit perfectly right out of the box. The best companies stand behind their product with a clear and generous policy. Some will cover the cost of local alterations, while others will remake the shirt for you completely. As one review noted, a great policy might offer you "two free chances to get it right," which provides incredible peace of mind for a first-time buyer.
Review Their Customer Service and Return Policy
When you’re investing in a custom garment, you want to know there’s a helpful human on the other side if you have questions or run into an issue. Look through customer reviews and pay attention to comments about the service experience. Are they responsive? Are they helpful when a problem arises? A company with a reputation for excellent support is invaluable. A clear, fair return or remake policy is another indicator of a trustworthy brand. It shows they are confident in their product and committed to your satisfaction, ready to offer a replacement or refund if things go wrong.
How Much Does a Made-to-Measure Shirt Cost?
When you start looking into made-to-measure shirts, you'll find that prices can vary quite a bit. This isn't random; the cost directly reflects the quality of the fabric, the complexity of the customizations, and the level of service you receive. A shirt made from a standard cotton poplin will naturally cost less than one crafted from a high-thread-count Egyptian cotton from a prestigious Italian mill. Similarly, adding intricate details like contrasting buttonholes, unique cuff styles, or a personalized monogram will add to the final price.
Think of it like buying a car—you can get a reliable base model or a luxury vehicle with all the bells and whistles. Both will get you where you need to go, but the experience and craftsmanship are worlds apart. The same principle applies to custom shirting. The value is not just in the product itself but in the process—the expertise of the person measuring you, the precision of the cut, and the quality of the construction. We'll break down the typical price ranges so you can find the sweet spot for your budget and style goals, from accessible online options to the premium custom clothing experience you'll find with a dedicated clothier.
Entry-Level: $50-$80
In the $50 to $80 range, you'll find many online brands that offer a fantastic entry point into the world of custom clothing. These companies make made-to-measure accessible, allowing you to select from hundreds of fabrics and add personal touches like a monogram, often with delivery included. While the fabrics might be more basic cottons or blends, you're still getting a shirt cut specifically for your measurements, which is a huge step up from anything off-the-rack. This is a great way to experiment with different fits and styles without a major investment and see firsthand how a custom-fit shirt can change your look.
Mid-Range: $80-$120
Moving into the $80 to $120 price point, you'll notice a significant jump in quality. This is where you start seeing finer fabrics with higher thread counts, sourced from more reputable mills. The construction of the shirt is often more detailed, with better stitching and more durable materials. Some companies in this tier offer in-person fittings, providing a more hands-on experience. It's worth remembering that an excellent made-to-measure shirt is far better than a poorly made bespoke one. This price range often represents the perfect balance of superior quality, personalization, and value, giving you a durable, great-fitting shirt that will last for years.
Luxury: $120+
Once you cross the $120 mark, you're entering the luxury tier of made-to-measure. Here, you're paying for the absolute best in materials and craftsmanship. Expect to find exquisite fabrics from world-renowned Italian and English mills, along with premium details like mother-of-pearl buttons and single-needle stitching. The service at this level is also highly personalized, with expert stylists guiding you through every choice. This is the category where Trevor Furbay excels, focusing on a truly personalized experience that combines top-tier materials with unparalleled expertise. It’s an investment in a one-of-a-kind garment that fits perfectly and is built to last.
What You're Paying For: Value vs. Price
Ultimately, the cost of a made-to-measure shirt comes down to the value of personalization. You're not just buying a piece of clothing; you're investing in a garment created to your exact specifications. You have complete control over every detail, from the fabric and collar style to the cuff shape and pocket placement. This level of customization ensures the shirt fits not only your body but also your personal style. Beyond the tangible elements, you're paying for the confidence that comes from wearing something that feels like a second skin. A perfect fit can completely transform your silhouette and how you carry yourself, making it a worthwhile investment in your wardrobe.
What Can You Learn From Customer Reviews?
Before you commit to a made-to-measure shirt, spending some time with customer reviews is a smart move. They offer a real-world look at what you can expect, from the quality of the fabric to the final fit. While every company will promise perfection, reviews from actual customers show you the full picture—the good, the bad, and what to prepare for. Think of it as getting advice from hundreds of people who have already gone through the process. This insight helps you spot potential red flags, identify companies known for great service, and ultimately choose a brand that aligns with your standards for quality and fit. By looking at common themes in feedback, you can go into your purchase with realistic expectations and a better understanding of how the made-to-measure process works.
What Customers Love
When you read through positive reviews, you'll notice a few key themes. People consistently praise high-quality fabrics and exceptional customer service. Many happy customers mention that the material feels luxurious and holds up well over time, which is exactly what you want from a custom garment. You’ll also see shout-outs for companies that make the process easy and are responsive to questions or concerns. Good service can make all the difference, especially if you need adjustments. These reviews often highlight brands that not only deliver a great shirt but also provide a supportive and helpful shopping experience from start to finish.
Common Complaints to Watch For
On the flip side, reviews are invaluable for spotting common problems. The most frequent complaint about online made-to-measure services is that the first shirt simply doesn’t fit correctly. Many customers report that their initial order arrives too baggy, too tight, or with incorrect sleeve lengths, even after they’ve submitted their measurements. This is a significant drawback of ordering online, where there’s no professional to guide the measuring process. Reading about these experiences can prepare you for the possibility of needing alterations and highlights the importance of a company’s remake or return policy. It’s a reminder that a digital measurement can’t always replace an expert’s touch.
Managing Your Expectations on Fit
Understanding the made-to-measure process helps set realistic expectations, especially when it comes to fit. These shirts start from a standard pattern that is then adjusted to your specific measurements. Because it’s not a fully bespoke garment created from scratch, it’s quite common for the first shirt to require minor tweaks. Reviews often suggest that patience is key; you’ll likely need to use the company’s alteration or remake services to dial in the perfect fit. This is where an in-person fitting truly shines. Working with a stylist ensures your measurements are taken correctly from the beginning, which dramatically reduces the chance you’ll need major adjustments later on. Our personalized fitting experience is designed to get it right the first time.
Key Customizations to Consider
Once you’ve found a company you trust, the fun part begins: designing a shirt that’s uniquely you. Made-to-measure isn’t just about getting the fit right; it’s about choosing the details that reflect your personal style. From the collar that frames your face to the fabric that you’ll wear all day, every choice contributes to the final product. This is your chance to build a shirt from the ground up, ensuring it’s perfect for the occasion you have in mind, whether that’s a crucial business meeting or a casual weekend brunch. Let’s walk through the key customizations you’ll want to think about.
Choosing Your Collar Style
The collar is arguably the most important detail on a dress shirt. It frames your face and sets the tone for your entire outfit. A classic point collar is a timeless, versatile choice, while a spread collar offers a more modern, confident look that pairs well with a wider tie knot. For a more casual feel, a button-down collar is a perfect option. When you create a custom shirt, you have the power to select a style that not only complements your facial structure but also aligns with the shirt’s intended purpose. Think about where you’ll be wearing the shirt most often to guide your decision.
Selecting the Right Cuffs
Cuffs might seem like a minor detail, but they have a major impact on a shirt's formality and function. The most common option is the barrel cuff, which features one or two buttons for a clean, classic finish suitable for everyday wear. For more formal events or to add a touch of personality, French cuffs are the way to go, requiring cufflinks to close. This choice allows you to introduce another element of personal style through your choice of cufflinks. The ability to select your cuff style, along with details like button color, ensures your shirt is perfectly tailored to your taste and the occasion, especially for important events like weddings.
Picking Your Fabric and Pattern
The fabric is the foundation of your shirt, dictating its comfort, breathability, and how it drapes on your body. You’ll find a huge range of options, from crisp cotton poplins and soft twills to breathable linens for warmer weather. Beyond the material, you can choose from a nearly endless library of colors and patterns. Whether you prefer a classic solid white, a subtle pinstripe for the office, or a bold pattern that makes a statement, the choice is yours. This is where a service like our StyleBox can be incredibly helpful, guiding you through premium fabrics to find the perfect match for your lifestyle and wardrobe.
Adding a Monogram and Other Personal Touches
Personalization is what truly sets a made-to-measure shirt apart. Adding a monogram with your initials is a classic way to make a shirt distinctly yours. You can choose the font, color, and placement—traditionally on the cuff or chest pocket—for a subtle yet sophisticated touch. But the details don't stop there. You can also select contrasting thread for the buttonholes, choose unique buttons, or even add a contrasting fabric to the inside of the collar or cuffs. These small flourishes are an opportunity to express your individuality and create a garment that tells a story. These are the kinds of thoughtful details we specialize in across all our styling services.
How to Ensure the Perfect Fit on Your First Order
Ordering your first made-to-measure shirt can feel like a big step, and the main question is always: Will it actually fit? The good news is that you have a lot of control over the outcome. Unlike buying off-the-rack, this process is a collaboration between you and the shirtmaker. Getting that perfect, crisp fit on the first try is absolutely possible when you know what to focus on.
It all comes down to providing the best information possible. Whether you’re taking measurements yourself or working with a stylist, precision and clear communication are your best friends. A few simple steps can make the difference between a shirt that’s just okay and one that feels like it was made for you and only you. Think of your first order as creating a personal blueprint that will make every future order even easier. Let’s walk through how to get that blueprint right from the start.
How to Take Accurate Measurements at Home
If you're ordering online, your measurements are the foundation of the entire shirt. A poorly measured custom shirt can fit worse than a standard-sized one, so it’s worth taking the time to get this right. Grab a soft, flexible measuring tape—not a metal one from the toolbox. For the most accurate results, ask a friend to help, as it’s tricky to measure your own back and arms.
Wear a thin, fitted t-shirt and stand in a relaxed, natural posture. Don’t suck in your stomach or puff out your chest. Follow the company’s guide precisely, measuring key areas like your neck, chest, waist, sleeves, and shoulders. It’s a good idea to measure each area twice to confirm the numbers.
Know the Different Measurement Methods
Not all custom shirt companies gather information the same way. Some use algorithms and phone apps to scan your body, while others provide detailed video tutorials for at-home measuring. The most thorough method, however, is an in-person fitting. A professional stylist can see nuances that a camera or measuring tape can’t—like the slope of your shoulders or your posture. An appointment for a custom shirt usually takes about an hour, giving you time to discuss exactly how you want your shirt to fit, from a slim, modern cut to a more traditional, comfortable drape.
Be Prepared for Minor Adjustments
It’s important to have realistic expectations for your first made-to-measure shirt. Think of it as the master pattern; sometimes, it needs a little fine-tuning to be perfect. Small tweaks, like taking in the waist slightly or adjusting a sleeve length, are a completely normal part of the process. In fact, it’s one of the myths of custom clothing that it should be flawless on the very first try. The goal of the first shirt is to dial in your unique fit, so a minor alteration here or there is simply a step toward creating your perfect pattern for all future orders.
The Benefit of Working with a Professional
While technology is impressive, it can’t replace the trained eye of an expert. Working with a professional stylist is the single best way to ensure a perfect fit. They understand the complexities of pattern-making and how different fabrics drape and stretch. A stylist does more than just take your measurements; they talk with you to understand your lifestyle and preferences. They can translate a request like "I want to look sharp but still be comfortable" into precise adjustments. This collaborative approach is what our custom clothing services are all about—creating a garment that doesn’t just fit your body, but fits your life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a made-to-measure shirt? The entire process, from your initial fitting to holding the finished shirt in your hands, typically takes a few weeks. Your first appointment for measurements and design choices is about an hour. After that, the shirt is crafted specifically for you. This isn't a rush job; it's a thoughtful process that ensures every detail is just right for a piece you'll have for years.
Is made-to-measure really that much better than a good off-the-rack shirt? Absolutely. While you can find nice off-the-rack shirts, they are made for a standard, generic body shape. Made-to-measure starts with a pattern that is adjusted to your specific proportions, from your shoulder slope to your arm length. This results in a superior fit that provides more comfort and a sharper silhouette. You also get to choose the exact fabric and details, creating a shirt that is truly your own.
Why is an in-person fitting so important if I can just measure myself at home? An in-person fitting with a professional stylist is the best way to guarantee a perfect fit. A stylist’s trained eye can see nuances that a measuring tape or a phone app simply can't, like your posture or how you move. They can translate your preferences for a "slim but not tight" fit into precise adjustments, which removes the guesswork and dramatically reduces the need for alterations later.
What if I don't know which fabric or collar style to choose? You don't have to be a style expert to create a great custom shirt. That's what we're here for. During your appointment, your stylist will ask about your lifestyle, where you plan to wear the shirt, and what you find comfortable. Based on your answers, they will guide you through the options and make recommendations that suit your needs and personal taste, making the process feel collaborative and easy.
Once I have my measurements with you, is it easier to order again? Yes, that’s one of the best parts of the process. After your first shirt is perfected, we save your unique pattern. This makes future orders incredibly simple. You can come in to select new fabrics and details for the season without needing to be fully measured again. It streamlines the process and helps you build a wardrobe of perfectly fitting shirts over time.