Made to Measure Suits Online: The Complete 2025 Guide

Made-to-measure suits online promise custom fit at off-the-rack prices. That promise is sometimes true—and sometimes very much not.

The MTM market exploded over the past decade. Prices range from $299 to $1,500+. Quality varies wildly. Fit results range from "perfect" to "what were they thinking?"

This guide covers what you actually need to know: how the process works, what separates good from bad, and how to get it right the first time.

What Is Made to Measure?

First, let's clarify the landscape:

Off-the-Rack

Pre-made suits in standard sizes (38R, 40L, etc.). Designed for statistical averages. If your body matches the pattern, great. If not, you need alterations—and some things can't be altered.

Price: $200-800
Fit: Varies. Often needs work.

Made to Measure (MTM)

Starts with a base pattern, adjusted to your specific measurements. More customization options—lapel style, button configuration, lining, pockets. Better fit than off-the-rack because proportions are adjusted to you.

Price: $400-1,500
Fit: Better than OTR. Still dependent on measurement accuracy.

Bespoke

Pattern created from scratch, specifically for your body. Multiple fittings. Test garments before final production. Hand-finished details. The best possible fit—at the highest price.

Price: $3,000-10,000+
Fit: As good as it gets.

Where Draft Fitting Lands

We operate at MTM prices ($590-800) but include the bespoke fitting approach—a test garment before final fabric cutting. MTM foundation, bespoke-level fit verification.

How to Buy Made to Measure Online: Step by Step

Step 1: Choose Your Fabric

This matters more than most people realize.

Weight: Lighter fabrics (200-250gsm) for summer. Heavier (300-350gsm) for winter. Mid-weight for year-round.

Composition: 100% wool is the standard for suiting. Linen for summer (see our Sicily Collection). Blends for specific purposes.

Color and pattern: Based on how you'll use it. Navy and charcoal work everywhere. Patterns require more consideration.

See our complete fabric range.

Step 2: Provide Measurements

This is where online MTM lives or dies.

Option A: DIY with tape measure

Most companies offer video guides. You and a helper take 15-20 measurements. Works well if you're careful and your body is relatively standard.

Option B: Visit a local tailor

Pay $20-50 for a professional measurement. Send those numbers to the online company. Better than DIY for most people.

Option C: Pattern service (if available)

Send a garment that fits well. The company extracts the pattern. Eliminates measurement guesswork entirely.

Compare measurement options.

Step 3: Select Customizations

MTM lets you specify:

• Lapel style (notch, peak, shawl)
• Button configuration (single-breasted, double-breasted)
• Pocket style (patch, flap, jetted)
• Vent style (single, double, no vent)
• Lining (full, half, unlined)
• Button choice and thread color
• Monogram (optional)

Don't go crazy on your first suit. Classic choices work everywhere. Get adventurous later.

Step 4: Wait for Production and Delivery

Typical timeframes:

• 4-6 weeks: Standard for quality MTM
• 2-3 weeks: Rush production (often means corners cut)
• 8+ weeks: Might indicate overseas production with less quality control

Plan accordingly. If you need the suit for a specific event, order at least 8 weeks early to allow for potential adjustments.

Step 5: Try On and Assess

When the suit arrives:

1. Check shoulders first. This is the hardest thing to alter. If shoulders are wrong, everything else is compromise.
2. Button the jacket. Should close without pulling.
3. Check sleeve length. About 1/4" to 1/2" of shirt cuff should show.
4. Sit down. The jacket should still feel comfortable.
5. Raise your arms. Shoulders should stay in place, not ride up.

If something's wrong, know your return/alteration policy before you panic.

What Separates Good MTM from Bad MTM

Red Flags

• No alteration policy: They're planning to ghost you when problems arise
• Algorithm-only measurements: No human tailor reviews your numbers
• Prices under $300 for wool suits: Fabric alone costs more than that
• Production over 8 weeks: Often means overseas sweatshop production
• No way to verify fit before final cut: You're gambling

Green Flags

• Clear alteration or remake policy: They stand behind their product
• Human pattern-maker reviews measurements: Someone with expertise checks the math
• Reasonable timeline: 4-6 weeks for quality work
• Transparent fabric sourcing: They'll tell you where materials come from
• Draft fitting or home try-on: You verify before they commit to final fabric

The Draft Fitting Difference

Most MTM process:
Take measurements → Cut final fabric → Ship → Hope it fits → Offer alterations

Draft fitting process:
Take measurements → Make test garment → Ship → Verify fit on your body → Adjust pattern → Cut final fabric

The difference is when you discover problems—before the expensive fabric is cut, or after.

Learn exactly how draft fitting works.

Comparing Online MTM Options

The key difference: we include draft fitting at this price point. Others require a showroom visit to get anywhere close to fit verification—and most people don't live near a showroom.

How Much Should You Spend?

$300-400 Range

Entry-level MTM. Fine for experimenting. Expect compromises in fabric quality and construction. Fused interlining (glued, not sewn) is common here.

$500-800 Range (Sweet Spot)

Quality fabrics from reputable mills. Better construction—often half-canvas or full canvas. This is where you get genuine value. LinenSuit.shop operates here, with draft fitting included.

$800-1,500 Range

Premium fabrics, more hand-finishing, often includes showroom fitting experience. Suitsupply Custom, Brooks Brothers fall here.

$1,500+ Range

Approaching bespoke territory. At this price, seriously consider actual bespoke—you're paying bespoke prices without bespoke process.

The Real Value Equation

Don't just compare price. Compare total cost:

Option A: $400 suit + $75 alterations + time + still "good enough" = ~$500 for compromise

Option B: $650 suit + draft fitting included + $0 alterations = $650 for correct fit

Option B costs more upfront but delivers more value.

Timeline Expectations

Realistic minimum: 6-8 weeks before you need it

This allows for:
- Production (4-6 weeks)
- Draft fitting if available (adds 1-2 weeks)
- Shipping
- Minor local adjustments if needed

Cutting it close: 4-5 weeks

Only works if everything goes perfectly. Don't count on everything going perfectly.

Rush orders: Some companies offer expedited production. Usually costs extra. Quality may suffer.

See our complete production timeline.

Common Questions

"How do I know my measurements are right?"

You often don't. That's why draft fitting exists—your body proves the fit, not a tape measure. If a company doesn't offer fit verification, build in time for alterations.

"What if I'm between standard sizes?"

This is actually ideal for MTM. You provide your exact measurements, not "I'm usually a 40R." The pattern adjusts to your specifics.

"How long does it take?"

Most MTM: 4-6 weeks. With draft fitting, add 1-2 weeks—but get it right the first time.

"Can I return if I don't like it?"

Custom items are typically non-returnable. Know the alteration/remake policy before ordering. This is why fit verification matters.

Ready to Experience MTM Done Right?

LinenSuit.shop combines:

• Premium fabrics (CAVANI, Italian mills, English tweed)
• Bangkok master tailors (why Bangkok?)
• Draft fitting included—not extra
• Worldwide shipping included
• Fit guarantee

Starting at $590

Browse Made to Measure Suits →

See Our Fabric Collection →