Quick Answer
Your first custom suit appointment usually covers purpose, budget, fabric, measurements, style details, and timeline. The tailor will guide you through jacket fit, trouser cut, lapel style, buttons, lining, and practical choices for Singapore weather. At We Are Suitable, custom 2-piece suits start from $299 and typical turnaround is 4-6 weeks depending on fabric and scheduling.
Step 1: Consultation
The first question is what the suit is for: work, wedding, groomsmen, interviews, or general formal wear. This determines how formal the fabric, colour, and construction should be.
It is also where budget is set. Being upfront about what you want to spend helps the tailor steer you to the right fabric — there is no benefit in being shown cloth that does not fit your plan. The $299 starting price gives you a clear base to work from.
Step 2: Measurements and Fit Preferences
Measurements are taken for the jacket and trousers, but the discussion should also cover how you want the suit to feel. Some clients prefer a sharper slim fit; others need comfort for sitting, moving, and long events.
You do not need to know your measurements in advance — they are all taken in person. It helps to mention how you will move in the suit: a suit for long wedding days or all-day conferences should allow more comfort than one worn for short formal appearances.
Step 3: Fabric and Styling
You will choose fabric, colour, lining, lapels, buttons, pockets, and trouser style. For a first suit, navy, charcoal, or medium grey is usually more versatile than a loud colour.
For Singapore’s climate, ask about a lighter-weight or breathable wool so the suit is comfortable in the heat. On styling, a notch lapel and a two-button single-breasted jacket are the most versatile starting point — classic choices you will not tire of.
How a custom suit should fit
Knowing what “good fit” looks like helps you judge your suit at the fitting:
- Shoulders sit flat, with the seam ending where your shoulder ends — no divots or overhang.
- The jacket closes without an X-shaped pull and skims the body rather than pinching or ballooning.
- Sleeves end to show roughly a centimetre of shirt cuff.
- Jacket length covers the seat and roughly splits your body in half.
- Trousers break lightly on the shoe — your choice of a clean or slight break.
Step 4: Fitting and Adjustments
Fittings help refine sleeve length, jacket shape, trouser break, and overall balance. Bring the shoes and shirt style you plan to wear if the suit is for a specific event.
This is the stage that makes a custom suit worth it — any issues are corrected while the suit is still being finished, so you collect a suit that is right rather than one you have to live with.
What your first suit costs — and what affects it
At We Are Suitable a 2-piece starts from $299. From there:
- Fabric — a heavier or pure-wool cloth can add to the base; you see the price before choosing.
- A vest — turning it into a 3-piece is +$99.
- Buying more than one — 3 suits are $289 each and 5 or more are $279 each.
See full pricing for the complete ladder.
How long it takes and when to start
Typical turnaround is 4–6 weeks including fittings. For a specific event, build in buffer: for a wedding, start about 8–12 weeks ahead so there is room for measurement, a fitting and any final tweaks without a rush. If your deadline is sooner, tell us and we will be honest about what is achievable.
What to Prepare
Bring reference photos if you have them, but be open to advice based on your body shape and occasion. Know your deadline, expected usage, and rough budget before the appointment.
A simple checklist: the shirt and shoes you would wear with the suit; your event date or deadline; a colour direction; and how often you expect to wear it. That is enough for a productive first appointment.
First-timer mistakes to avoid
- Going too tight or too trendy. A first suit should fit comfortably and stay wearable for years — skip the extreme slim fit and bold pattern.
- Choosing black as suit one. Black reads formal or funeral-like in daylight; navy and charcoal are far more useful.
- Leaving it too late. Rushing a custom suit defeats the point — give it the 4–6 weeks (more for weddings).
- Picking a heavy cloth. In our heat, a lighter, breathable wool is more comfortable for everyday wear.
Should you bring someone with you?
It can help to bring a partner or friend for a second opinion on colour and fit, especially if the suit is for a shared occasion like a wedding. A second set of eyes is useful — just keep the final call yours, since you are the one who will wear it. We are happy to talk through the choices with you either way.
Building from your first suit
A first suit is the start of a small, versatile wardrobe rather than the whole thing. Once you have a navy or charcoal suit that fits, sensible next steps are a contrasting second suit (charcoal if you started with navy), a couple of custom shirts (from $99) to go with it, and — if you want a 3-piece look — a vest for +$99. Buying two or three suits together also unlocks the lower per-suit price ($289 each for 3, $279 each for 5+).
After you collect it: care and alterations
Looked after, a first suit lasts for years. In Singapore’s humidity, let it air and rest between wears, brush it down, use a wooden hanger, and dry-clean only when needed. If your fit changes over time, the suit can usually be altered rather than replaced.
FAQ
How much is a first custom suit in Singapore?
At We Are Suitable, custom 2-piece suits start from $299. Package pricing is available for 3 or more suits.
How long does a custom suit take?
A typical planning window is 4-6 weeks, depending on fabric availability and fitting schedule.
What colour should my first custom suit be?
Navy or charcoal is usually the safest first choice because both work for business, weddings, interviews, and formal events.
Do I need an appointment?
Appointments are recommended so we can give you proper time — call or WhatsApp +65 8365 6722. Walk-ins are welcome when we are free.
Do I need to bring my measurements?
No — we take all the measurements in person. Just bring yourself, ideally with a suitable shirt and shoes.
What if I gain or lose weight later?
Most suits can be taken in or let out within reason. See alterations to keep a well-fitting suit you already own.
What payment methods do you accept?
Cash, credit card, PayNow and bank transfer.
Can I order more than one suit on my first visit?
Yes — and ordering together is cheaper: 3 suits are $289 each and 5 or more are $279 each. It is a common choice for building a work wardrobe or for a wedding party.
How is a first custom suit different from buying off-the-rack?
A custom suit is built to your own measurements rather than a standard size, so the fit — especially the shoulders — is right from the start instead of relying on alterations. For more, see our guide on custom suits vs off-the-rack.
Start with bespoke suits, check pricing, or book a fitting.
