
Crafting a high-quality garment takes time. SAO Sartorial is a bespoke and made-to-measure tailoring house. Today, let’s talk about the art of tailoring for sartorial excellence
We need to understand how clothing is made from scratch. There are generally three types of clothing. The first is ready-to-wear, where an individual can come in and pluck an item off the shelf and wear it as it is. The second is made to measure. A person chooses from among a selection of styles, materials, and other details to create a finished product. Bespoke tailoring involves designing and cutting to the customer’s individual measurements and body shape, ensuring a perfect fit that is both comfortable and flattering.
Bespoke

Bespoke is about creating something that does not yet exist. It means a meticulous process of measurement, pattern creation, and an iteration of fittings. There are no exceptions; the client must be measured to get the specific characteristics and nuances of the body before the garment can be produced. From the measurements, a pattern is created. These patterns cannot be used on another person because they go beyond simply measuring a body type; patterns are the DNA of the bespoke world.
Sao Sartorial has its own distinct style, which helps clients find what best suits their own preferences. Experience is also a key factor in choosing the right suit-maker. It is no coincidence that the most sought-after tailors come from houses with decades, if not centuries, of history. Reputable tailors at Sao Sartorial have an extensive library of fabrics to fulfill any sartorial vision.
Made to Measure (MTM)

Refers to clothing sewn from a standard-sized base pattern. A made-to-measure garment is crafted to fit each customer individually based on a few body measurements to customize the pre-existing pattern.
Made-to-measure garments generally offer a wide range of customization options and can be a perfect choice for wedding attire or other special occasions where fit and personalization are essential.
At Sao, we offer both the MTM and Bespoke options, but what is the actual difference between Bespoke and MTM? MTM costs significantly less than full Bespoke; this much is clear, but are you getting significantly lesser quality if you opt for MTM?
Not really. MTM retains many of the high-quality elements of a full Bespoke, which can be summarized as follows:
Both Bespoke and MTM
- Choose the color, weight, and pattern of cloth from the hundreds of high-quality cloth swatches on a tailor’s shelves.
- The client is measured by the tailor
- Your own choice of pockets, vents, lapels, buttons, button holes, pleats, and linings

Overview
Made to measure : Only a handful of basic measurements are taken: Sleeve length, jacket sides, pant waist size, etc. A standard size of garment is selected and then altered to generally fit you. This offers a balance between personalized fit and affordability.
Bespoke: Represent the pinnacle of tailoring with completely unique patterns, maximum customization, and meticulous craftsmanship. They ensure the best possible fit and quality, but at a higher cost and longer lead time.
Which to Choose:
- Opt for MTM if you want a high-quality garment with significant customization but are looking for a quicker turnaround and a lower price point.
- Choose Bespoke if you desire the ultimate in fit, personalization, and craftsmanship and are willing to invest the time and money for a garment that is entirely made for you.
Summary

Overall, the above blueprint isn’t by any means bulletproof, but sticking to it will help you get closer to finding the right tailoring service at SAO SARTORIAL.
If you are looking for a tailoring house with immense experience and history behind it while getting your new suit, you are always welcome to visit https://saosatorial.ke/ and talk to our wardrobe consultants dedicated to sartorial excellence. Our store is located at the Adams Arcade Mall. Ngong Road, Nairobi.