Greg Chapman

Questions & Answers

Q: Why buy a ready-made suit when it’s clear that custom-made fits so much better?
A: People focus on the wrong things: Designer name label status, price, store prestige, store salesman rapport, etc. Stores are in business to sell merchandise. They turn a blind eye to “fit” when caught up in accessory coordination and the “buzz” of shopping.

Q: What makes you different from most “tailors”?
A: We dress people using the vehicle of tailoring. Our suits are each made from an individual pattern made on the laps of individual tailors, rather than cut from standard block patterns and assembled in a factory on a production line. Our clothing is “pure custom” vs. “made-to-measure” tailoring.

Q: What makes a custom suit, custom made?
A: If a pattern has been made from the client’s individual measurements and posture, and without aid of a pre-made pattern, and is then drawn out on the cloth, one suit at a time, then cut and assembled on the lap of a single tailor, the suit is custom made. Try-on fittings prior to completion, are not necessarily an indication of whether the suit is custom made.

Q: Does changing weight defeat the integrity of the pattern?
A: Not at all. The pattern is flexible. It expands and contracts. It addresses the “proportion” of a person; the slope of the shoulders, the pitch of the head, the roundness of the back, the waist length, the hang of the arms, the crotch depth, the seat shape, the “balance”- all the things that don’t change regardless of expansion or contraction of their body.

Q: If one likes looser styled clothing, is there still an advantage to custom clothing?
A: Yes. A suit will drape smoothly only if it conforms to the physique that wears it. Whether loose Italian cut, or shaped British cut, the suit flows without tugs and wrinkles.

Q: I think I’m a perfect size in the stores because the alterations are minor.
A: A common misconception. You don’t realize how poorly an off-the-rack suit fits until you actually have one made to your individual posture and measurements. Everyone notices a difference. Many clients, who were once happy with their clothes, refuse to wear any clothes other than ours, and ultimately replace everything in their wardrobe. It’s as much how they “feel” in their clothes as how they look.

Q: I have a favorite suit. I like the style and the fit isn’t bad. Shall we start with that?
A: By all means. We always like to start with your favorite and improve upon it.

Q: I can’t get to see you for personal measurements. Can I still become your client?
A: Yes. Many of our best clients are people whom we’ve never met. If you’ll spend a few minutes, you’ll enjoy perfect clothes for the rest of your life. Have someone photograph you front, back and side, without a coat, and in your favorite suit, then send the photos and the suit to us with your thoughts on the fit. (crotch too deep, sleeves too long, etc.) We’ll study the photos, take measurements from the suit, (which will be returned within a few days) evaluate your posture, make a pattern and make you a suit from that pattern. Thereafter, we’ll forward fabric swatches to you from which you can place orders for suits, slacks, shirts, jackets, etc.

Q: If I see a photo that I like in a magazine, can you copy it?
A: Yes, and it often turns out to be a client’s favorite suit. What you see is what you get!

Q: Do you have much to choose from in fabrics and styles?
A: Yes! Some 50,000 fabrics from the finest woolen houses in the world including Holland & Sherry, Dormeuil, Lora Piana, Scabal, Zegna, and many more. Any style whatsoever!

Q: What’s the main advantage to your approach to clothing?
A: Consistent results and perfect fitting clothing again and again without need of time, or effort in shopping, fittings and alterations. You’ll take on a polished look of elegance with virtually no time or effort.

Q: Tell me about your Wardrobe Plan Program.
A: By setting dates throughout the year, and annualizing a budget, we can keep a stream of clothing flowing into your wardrobe at savings of from 20% to 30%. Call for more information, 310-657-8487.