Shopping for clothing is a more serious endeavour for some people. Those midi skirts, suits, and dresses sold online or in malls don’t always match their specific fashion criteria. This is where made-to-measure (MTM) garments come in. Although not quite as unique as bespoke, these types of clothes come with a different set of characteristics than those that are more commonly available in most clothing stores. In this article, you will learn how it differs from ready-to-wear (RTW) apparel and understand the most important things about shopping for MTM clothing.
How do ready-to-wear and made-to-measure clothes differ?
RTW clothes are pieces that are bought “off the rack.” They are made to a brand or designer’s signature pattern and come in standard sizes. They also usually have a lower price tag than made-to-measure garments and are available in various colours, textures, sizes, and material. However, you may not be able to combine these elements at their leisure. You can have the sizes altered for the clothes to fit better, but that is often done by another party separate from the store or manufacturer.
In short, what you see is what you get.
On the other hand, made-to-measure clothing comes with more measurements and personalisation. More often called “custom-made,” this type of clothing can reflect your taste better because the wearer can choose not only the fabric, lining, and pocket treatments but also other details like workable buttonholes and the type of canvas to be used (specifically for suits).
MTM clothes can also be tweaked further to ensure a better fit. However, they won’t necessarily be made from an incredibly unique design. That’s where bespoke clothing comes in (more below).
What is bespoke clothing?
Besides RTW and MTM, you may also hear the term “bespoke,” which describes clothing made from a pattern specifically designed for a particular individual.
This usually requires two to three fittings, comes with more flexibility in the design, and matches even the tiniest nuances of the wearer.
What are the measurements used in RTW and MTM clothing?
As mentioned above, RTW and MTM differ significantly in the measurement standards.
RTW
With RTW, you can only choose between ranges of standard or “universal” sizes ranging from small to double extra-large (some even go beyond that). These sizes vary per region and may even depend on the specific store and wearer demographic (i.e., men, women, or kids).
RTW also typically takes into consideration three primary measurements: bust, waist, and hip. For the sake of sampling, the following size guide shows the international standard for women:
- Small
- Bust – 82.5 to 85 centimetres
- Waist – 61 to 63.5 centimetres
- Hip – 87.6 to 90 centimetres
- Medium
- ● Bust – 87.5 to 90 centimetres
- Waist – 66 to 68.5 centimetres
- Hip – 93 to 95 centimetres
- Large
- Bust – 92.5 to 96.5 centimetres
- Waist – 71 to 75 centimetres
- Hip – 98 to 101.5 centimetres
- Extra Large
- Bust – 100.5 to 104 centimetres
- Waist – 79 to 82.5 centimetres
- Hip – 105.5 to 109 centimetres
- Double Extra Large (XXL)
- Bust – 104 to 109 centimetres
- Waist – 82.5 to 87.5 centimetres
- Hip – 109 to 114 centimetres
MTM
MTM clothes require more detailed measurements because of their customisable properties.
As a point of comparison, below are the measurements needed for dresses, which are the same numbers taken when brides-to-be and their entourage get fitted for their made-to-measure dresses:
- Overbust – measures the area around the chest, right above the bust, with the measuring tape going under each armpit and around the back until they meet in front.
- Bust – taken over the fullest part of the bust (not the same as bra size) while wearing a bra, with the measuring tape going around the back to the front.
- Underbust – measured along the rib cage area under the bust.
- Natural waist – takes the circumference of the smallest part of the waist, about an inch or two above the belly button.
- Low waist – taken about one inch under the belly button.
- Shoulder seam to underbust – starting from the top of the shoulder, the tape goes over the breast’s middle area and then to the bottom of the bra.
- Underbust to natural waist – measures the space between the underbust and natural waist, starting from the bra underwiring down to the area where the natural waist measurement is taken.
- Back length – taken starting from the nape of the neck down to the natural waist.
- Armscye – measured around the topmost part of the arm, going under the armpit to the top of the shoulder; determines the size of the armholes.
- Shoulder width – the length across the back, measured from each shoulder without curving the measuring tape.
- Skirt length – measured from the natural waist to the desired hemline.
So, which is better: ready-to-wear or made-to-measure?
The short answer is, “It depends.”
If you’re after a quick addition to your wardrobe with a lower price tag, choose RTW. But when it comes to better fit and a more personalised style, MTM is definitely better.
Custom-made outfits also come with several benefits, such as:
Value for money
Bespoke clothes cost more because they are unique and basically created from scratch, design and all. On the other hand, RTW is mass-produced and made to fit anyone within a given size range.
As a middle ground for the two, MTM garments offer a more cost-efficient alternative for people who want better-fitting clothing without too high a price.
Better fit
Besides style, the clothing fit is one of the most crucial aspects you need to consider when buying new apparel. Because they are made explicitly for you, MTM clothes are more likely to fit better, without the need for extensive tweaks.
On the other hand, the standard designs and sizes of RTW may require more work, especially if you’re someone critical of their overall appearance.
Optimum comfort
Because custom-made apparel fits better, they are also more comfortable than the average off-the-rack pieces. They can even be made using the best fabric for the style and design you want, adding to the ease of movement it can provide.
Sustainability
Since MTM clothing are made of high-quality materials and top-of-the-line craftsmanship and fit you perfectly, they tend to last longer than RTWs.
As a result, they also help to reduce clothing waste being sent to landfills.
Customise Your Style
Made-to-measure clothes are the perfect choice for customising your style to reflect your personality. Use this article as a guide to know when MTM or RTW can serve you best and make shopping for clothes a breeze.
AUTHOR BIO
Kristina Fidelskaya is committed to providing an elegant and feminine wardrobe to modern women with real lives and real needs. Timeless collections based around impeccable materials and craftsmanship, each piece is unique, tells a story, and stays with you for a lifetime. Fusing traditional tailoring with modern, contemporary designs, Kristina Fidelskaya creates luxurious understated products.
