The Real Difference Between Custom and Made-to-Measure Suits

The Real Difference Between Custom and Made-to-Measure Suits

The search for the perfect custom suit often leads to two names:  StudioSuits and Indochino.

Both brands have made tailored clothing accessible in different ways, yet the essence of their craftsmanship and approach to suit making reflect two distinct philosophies. 

While Indochino focuses on a technology driven made-to-measure model designed for speed and accessibility, StudioSuits remains committed to traditional craftsmanship where each pattern is hand-cut, each stich intentional and each fabric chosen for its character, not convenience.

If you’ve ever wondered what truly separates a custom-tailored suit from a made-to-measure one, this guide outlines how each approach differs in philosophy, fit, craftsmanship, pricing and delivery.

 

1. The Tailoring Philosophy

The philosophy behind a suit shape everything — its fit, drape, and ultimately, its personality.

Many large-scale tailoring houses rely on advanced measuring systems that adjust existing patterns for each client. It’s an efficient way to produce suits with decent accuracy and fast turnaround.

StudioSuits, however, takes a more artisanal route. Every garment begins with a unique pattern drafted from your exact measurements. The focus isn’t just on numbers but on proportion, balance, and silhouette — hallmarks of true custom tailoring.

A made-to-measure suit adapts to you; A custom suit is created around you.

 

2. Craftsmanship & Fabric Selection

Not all tailoring begins with the same cloth.

Indochino offers a curated selection of fabrics chosen for modern versatility and consistent results — a practical choice for a global operation.

StudioSuits, works directly with heritage textile mills in Italy and the U.K., personally sourcing materials each season.

Our collection includes fine cloth from Loro Piana, Scabal, Ermenegildo Zegna, Solbiati, Harris Tweed, Vitale Barberis Canonico (VBC), and Guabello — names synonymous with weaving excellence and luxury.

Every piece of fabric is selected for its character, drape, and longevity, ensuring that your suit feels as good as it looks.

Where others focus on consistency, StudioSuits focuses on character. 

 

3. The Fit Experience

Fit lies at the heart of every great suit.

Indochino follows a made-to-measure approach, where digital patterns are adjusted according to each client's measurements for a personalized fit. 

StudioSuits uses a made-from-scratch pattern approach. Skilled Tailors analyze proportions, shoulder slope, posture and movement before cutting the cloth. This human precision creates a fit that feels organic and effortless.

 Both deliver precision; each delivers a different kind of presence.

 

4. Personalization & Finishing Details

Modern suiting allows for individual expression, and both brands offer a range of design choices — from lapel styles to lining colors.

What distinguishes StudioSuits is the depth of craftsmanship behind those choices.
Beyond surface customization, our tailors hand-finish each garment using time-honored techniques, including the Handmade Milanese Buttonhole — one of the rarest details in fine tailoring.

“The Milanese buttonhole is the most exclusive lapel detail in tailoring.
Hand-stitched with silk thread wrapped around a hidden gimp cord, it creates a sculpted, rope-like finish that sets your jacket apart.
Few artisans today still master this centuries-old craft, making it a detail you’ll wear with pride.”

The finer the detail, the stronger the distinction.

 

5. Price & Value & Delivery

Pricing structures in tailoring have evolved with time and tariffs.

Indochino’s made-to-measure suits currently start around $559 USD, offering reliable value for entry-level tailoring. Their delivery timelines generally fall within the 3–4 week range, depending on demand and production cycles.

StudioSuits spans a broader range — from $250 USD for essential everyday wear to over $1,200 USD for luxury fabrics sourced directly from Italy and England.

This flexibility allows clients to experience genuine custom tailoring at every budget level — from first-time buyers to seasoned connoisseurs. Most custom orders are completed and delivered within 2–3 weeks, offering a balanced combination of customization, craftsmanship, and turnaround time.

Accessibility is often reflected in price; craftsmanship reveals itself over time — and reliable delivery is part of that experience.

 

6. Longevity & Purpose

Both brands make tailoring approachable — but longevity reveals what endures.

Indochino emphasizes a streamlined, repeatable made-to-measure experience designed for convenience and modern styling.

StudioSuits, meanwhile, focuses on garments that age gracefully — with hand-stitched interiors, real fabrics, and construction meant to last.
Each suit matures with its wearer, carrying the subtle marks of craftsmanship and time.

Fast tailoring suits the season. Handcrafted tailoring suits a lifetime.

 

Which Brand Is Right for You?

Both StudioSuits and Indochino have shaped the modern tailoring landscape in their own way.
Indochino brought made-to-measure suiting to a global audience — a fast path to a suit.

StudioSuits, meanwhile, gives you a story — cut, stitched, and finished by hand using fabrics woven by masters.
It’s where custom tailoring still means handcrafted.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to what you value most.
Both deliver a tailored experience — but in different languages.

If you believe a suit should carry the mark of individuality and time-honored skill, StudioSuits is where that tradition still lives.

Discover our full world of custom tailoring

Because the best suits aren’t just made to measure — they’re made with meaning.

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