When you’re looking into using the services of a professional tailor, tailoring costs are often at the top of your mind. From knowing the average cost of a suit to wondering should you tip a tailor, the tailoring process can bring a whole host of questions.
Tailoring costs are an important part of men’s tailoring and there are several aspects that can impact or alter final costs. Here are a few key points to consider.
What’s the Average Cost to Tailor a Suit?
Average suit alteration prices shift from season to season. However, you can count on average tailor prices to show a pattern that is usually consistent with the level of work required. As such, the average cost to tailor a suit varies based on several aspects of the tailoring process. There are several common factors that can shift the meter on the pricing scale. Here are a few factors that impact the average cost to tailor a suit.
Fabric Selection. The type of fabric you choose for your suit can impact its final cost. For instance, you can expect high-quality fabrics found in winter or fall suits, such as cashmere and Merino wool to increase the price of your suit. On the other hand, suits appropriate for the summer often use less fabrication. So, you often can expect these suits to cost much less than the winter versions. Whether you decide to opt for a luxury fabric, such as the ones featured from premium brands like Ted Baker, Canali and Castagnia, or choose to go for a cool linen fabric, just keep in mind how your fabric choices impact the average suit alteration prices you may have to pay.
Construction. The construction of the suit may also impact its cost. For instance, if your tailor needs to only hem your sleeves and pants, then you can expect a modest price for alterations. However, you can expect a higher price for alterations when the modifications become more complex, such as cinching in the waist or adjusting the shoulders of a sleeve. These modifications can completely alter the entire look of your suit and often require more expertise and time. Moreover, the type of stitch your tailor uses may impact the total cost of your tailoring service. For example, tailors often have to use special construction and stitches to properly secure pockets and the inseam of your pants. This may use more thread or result in more time required for alterations, which can drive up the price. That’s why it’s important to understand the of alteration you need to determine the end price of your alterations.
Customization. The more customization your suit requires, the more you can expect to pay. For instance, if your tailor is altering your pants but must make a new suit jacket to ensure your shoulder fits you properly, you can expect to pay more for your suit alterations.
Should You Tip a Tailor?
Tipping a tailor isn’t always expected or even necessary. Yet, it is If you’re asking yourself “should you tip a tailor?” then let these tips be your guide.
Consider tipping for customization. Your tailor isn’t a magician. But he sometimes makes magic happen by altering your suit appropriately. If your tailor has put in lots of customization, then tipping may be appropriate.
Focus on value. Tipping may increase average tailor prices, but sometimes the value justifies the cost. Instead of wondering should you tip a tailor, focus on the value a tailor offers to decide if tipping your tailor is right for you.
Tailoring Costs with Sal Lauretta
Whether you’re getting your suit pants hemmed or your sleeve adjusted, it’s important to remember that the average suit alteration prices are based on several factors. By using this guide, you know what to expect when it comes to average suit alteration prices.
