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Today, the luxury made-to-measure suit market is more dynamic than ever, despite a significant decline in traditional business suits. Indeed, whereas in the 1950s there were almost 10,000 tailors in France, today there are only 150 workshops left, including that ofesther bancel, making this know-how all the more precious.

As a master tailor in Paris, we know that creating a made-to-measure suit is a true art, requiring over 80 hours of work and the expertise of 5 craftsmen. The choice is impressive: some houses offer up to 6,000 different fabrics and 500 different linings. Prices, meanwhile, vary considerably, ranging from 2,000 to 100,000 euros for a quality made-to-measure Paris suit, and even exceeding 100,000 euros for art pieces.

In this expert guide, I'll share with you all the secrets of men's suits in Paris, the fruit of my experience as a suit tailor in Paris (by the way, there's no equivalent female name for this profession). Together, we'll explore the essential aspects of getting the best made-to-measure suit in Paris that will perfectly match your expectations.

In the world of luxury made-to-measure suits, the distinction between different manufacturing methods is fundamental to understanding the value of each creation.

Grand mesure, also known as "bespoke", represents the pinnacle of craftsmanship. Each suit is created from a unique pattern, specifically designed for the customer. This method requires between 70 and 90 hours of manual labor. The process also involves a minimum of three fittings, and up to five in the most prestigious houses.

In contrast, half-measure uses a pre-existing pattern which is then adapted to the customer's measurements. This approach, while less exclusive, also offers an excellent level of personalization. Prices generally start at 800 euros, making bespoke suits in Paris more affordable than made-to-measure suits, which start at 1,500 euros.

The process of creating a made-to-measure Paris suit follows several crucial stages:

The initial consultation: An in-depth discussion that usually lasts between 30 minutes and an hour.

Fabric selection: Hundreds of fabrics from the finest Italian and English drapers.

Measurements: A detailed analysis of posture and morphological characteristics

Configuration: Customize details such as collar turn-ups, pockets and lining.

Fittings: A first fitting after 3 to 4 weeks, followed by precise adjustments.

Indeed, the complete production of a suit generally requires 2 to 3 appointments to finalize the piece. Total lead time varies between 6 and 8 weeks for a classic suit, and up to 12 weeks for more complex creations.

The Italian textile industry has held a position of global supremacy since the Middle Ages, particularly in the manufacture of luxury made-to-measure suits.

Italian fabrics are distinguished by their refined design and exceptional quality. Leading names such as Vitale Barberis Canonico offer fabrics ranging from Super 110, the best-selling quality, to Super 150, made from 16.2-micron wool. Loro Piana also stands out for its exclusive collection of fabrics made from precious fibers such as cashmere and baby cashmere, rigorously controlled at every stage of production.

Noble fiber blends offer unique characteristics for every season:

For summer : linen, cotton and fresco wool for their lightness and breathability

For winter: flannel, cashmere, velvet and tweed for their warmth

These combinations allow us to control the fabric's warmth and breathability. In particular, Drago fabrics, made with extremely fine yarns, reach new heights in terms of softness and lightness thanks to their high wool and cashmere content.

There are several essential criteria for assessing the quality of a fabric. Firstly, the fineness of the fiber, measured in Super (120's to 150's), determines the fabric's suppleness and hold. In addition, natural fabrics such as wool offer perfect drape, a soft hand and a distinctive natural sheen. These noble materials also guarantee excellent durability, able to retain their quality for decades with proper care.

The creation of a luxury made-to-measure suit in Paris is a true art, where each step is crucial to obtain a unique and perfectly fitted piece.

Parisian master tailors perpetuate ancestral know-how in costume-making. In particular, as soon as the materials are selected, the cutters create the "pattern" with surgical precision (at esther bancel we use 3D pattern-making). In addition, a first version of the costume, called a "canvas", is often created in cotton to study the general appearance before the final production.

Indeed, the art of the Paris suit tailor is evolving to incorporate cutting-edge technologies. Workshops now use advanced design and modeling software to create precise digital patterns. As a result, every curve and fold is meticulously studied in three dimensions, even before the first stroke of the scissors.

Fitting is an essential phase in the creation of a bespoke suit in Paris. Each fitting allows us to perfect the cut and ensure that the garment fits perfectly. Particular attention is paid to finishing touches: buttonholes are hand-embroidered, linings are precisely sewn and hems are made using techniques handed down from generation to generation.

To guarantee impeccable results, the Parisian master tailors make a number of meticulous adjustments. However, this meticulous process requires between 70 and 90 hours of manual labor, demonstrating the craftsmen's unfailing commitment to excellence and perfection.

Investment in a luxury made-to-measure suit varies considerably according to the quality and level of personalization required.

For a bespoke two-piece suit, prices start from €800. Three-piece suits range from €1,200 to €1,900. The market is divided into three distinct segments:

Entry-level: From €300, with standard finishes

Mid-range: between €600 and €1,500, with fine finishes and customizations

Top-of-the-range: From €1,500, with noble fabrics and full customization, as at esther bancel

Investing in a made-to-measure suit in Paris pays off in the long run. High-quality materials guarantee exceptional durability. So, unlike ready-to-wear suits that require regular, costly alterations, a bespoke suit for men in Paris avoids these extra expenses.

The best made-to-measure suits in Paris also offer significant economic advantages. Although the initial investment is higher, the long-term cost is considerably reduced thanks to the superior quality of materials and workmanship. What's more, these pieces embellish over time, fully justifying their higher price positioning.

A luxury made-to-measure suit is much more than just a garment - it's an investment in craftsmanship excellence. Admittedly, creating such a piece requires a significant commitment of both time and financial resources. Nevertheless, the exceptional quality of the materials, combined with the traditional know-how of Parisian master tailors, guarantees remarkable durability.

Ancestral techniques, perfected over generations, now blend with modern innovations to create costumes of incomparable precision. This alliance between tradition and modernity allows us to offer unique creations, perfectly adapted to each customer.

The difference between a made-to-measure and a half-measure suit lies mainly in the level of personalization and the time devoted to its creation. However, whichever option you choose, the end result always reflects the excellence of Parisian craftsmanship.

Without a doubt, investing in a luxury made-to-measure suit represents a wise choice for any man concerned about his appearance and quality. This unique piece, created according to your exact measurements and personal preferences, will accompany you faithfully for many years, fully justifying its initial cost.

Find out more about :

-Made in France

-3D pattern cutting on avatar

-Style and design of made-to-measure costumes