February 13, 2014

Fit For Good

Technology has enabled custom made clothing to finally reach the mass market. It's tough enough getting something properly tailored let alone buying something straight off the rack at a department store. Therefore, many shoppers completely skip both scenarios and head straight to the web to find custom made pieces that are more convenient for their lifestyles. Due to this growing demand, a string of new brands has emerged as an antidote to fast fashion and to give the industry a fresh perspective on fit and size, particularly in the menswear sector.

photo via NY Times

Between regular fits and big & tall sizes, one would think you should fit somewhere in between, but what about those of a smaller build? Meet Peter Manning, a line of classic American Sportswear made for guys 5-foot-8 and under and of a thinner physique. Along with this, other similar brands like Jaden Lam and Willis & Walker have popped up to cater to this niche market as well.

video via Ori Jeans

We all can agree that the one item that is the most frustrating to shop is without a doubt jeans. While it may sound unreal, that's where Ori Jeans comes in with their $99 handcrafted jeans. Made with selvedge denim from the US and Japanese mills, this Kickstarter campaign will start taking orders sometime this month and once it's up and running, you'll be able to select a specific cut, color, fabric, and even such details as stitching and distressing.

photo via Appalatch

Based in Asheville NC, Appalatch is an ethically minded, American made, and quality driven outdoor apparel company that seeks to prolong the lifeline of what we wear. Their custom sweaters are 3D printed in under an hour with no waste and cost around $109.

video via MyOwnShirts

MyOwnShirts is like a virtual design mecca for shirts. With the click of a button you can enter your measurements, choose your fit and design preferences, and voila! Your shirt is cut, sewn, and delivered to your door.

photo via Indochino

One of the most well known of these companies and first of its kind is Indochino, an online made-to-order suit retailer where you choose a style, add customizations and then follow their step by step measuring guides to create a look completely your own. They even have pop up tailor shops in major cities across the US and are so dedicated to creating the perfect fit that if your suit arrives and isn't right, they will even go as far as covering additional alteration expenses, remaking it free of cost, or accepting a return with full refund. Today, Indochino has served more than 120,000 customers in over 130 countries and continues to go global.

photo via fashionista.com

Womenswear label Bow & Drape is a NY fashion tech startup who not only does customized unique statement pieces but as of late has been experimenting with 3D printing for its new accessory line. Stay tuned next week as we talk about the NYFW presentation Bow & Drape x Paper Fashion at Launch NY.

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