May 24, 2012

CUT & COLOUR

It seems just about every suiting label has introduced some form of custom or made-to-measure service in the past few years, which makes sense, given the global trend towards one-of-a-kind pieces in every industry from homewares to automotive. Australian suiting outfitter Herringbone has always offered such a service, but with the company's purchase by German shirtmaker Van Laack, it's in a particularly strong position to offer a vast selection of fabrics, finishes and details that many others can't. The service includes made-to-measure shirting and suiting, with a variety of options including mother-of-pearl buttons, contrast cross-stitching and a choice of over 150 of the fine fabrics: wool, cashmere, cotton and linen. Collars, cuffs and personalised embroidery further complement the offering. After an initial fitting with Herringbone's trained tailors, completion of a garment takes approximately four weeks, with future shirts completed within two weeks as fitting details are kept on file. What's more is that despite the personalised process, made-to-measure shirts begin at $179 and suits at $1395, making it equivalent to (or more affordable than) many other off-the-rack options in the market.