Tailored Clothing Vs Off-the-shelf Wear:

Fashion appeals to your emotions. It is a well-researched fact, one that many would not be able to argue with. To look beautiful is to feel good. We buy clothing and choose fashion styles based on feelings. Designers create through an artistic ability that is derived from their moods and their emotions.

But what is the point of wearing something that only makes you feel temporarily good? Is it worth it to purchase a piece of clothing that will disintegrate after a few washes in the machine, or that doesn't really fit you well?

Herein lays a pertinent question in the fashion world: What are the differences between manufactured clothing and tailored clothing? And do these differences really matter to the long term quality of the piece of clothing?

Clothing was traditionally created to protect the body, and was originally made out of natural elements like animal skin, cotton, and silk. Manufactured clothing only came about during the Industrial Revolution, when making textiles became easier through the use of machinery.

Since then, manufactured clothing has become the cheap, easy and convenient way to dress oneself. Tailored clothing has been left to the "upper realms" of the fashion world; i.e. in the haute couture arena, for the special and once-in-a-lifetime occasions, and by fashion designers for the runway.

Tailored clothing is arguably of better fit, quality, and design and it can be created for everyday wear. In fact, tailored clothing made from high quality fabric is the best choice for everyday wear because it lasts longer, washes better, falls more naturally, and is made to fit the body exactly.

For those special occasions where looking and feeling good is crucial, tailored clothing is of utmost importance. Beyond looking good, the quality and lifespan of a piece of clothing can make all the difference! Investing in a dress that is made from the highest quality silk, and that fits your body to the exact inch, will yield massive returns in comfort, lifespan, and most importantly â€" positive emotions.

So despite the convenience in buying manufactured and pre-designed clothing, perhaps it's time to go back to our roots and start treating ourselves to the quality, comfort and long-lasting goodness that can be found in tailored clothing.

How To Make The Most Out Of Your Tailored Clothing:

1.    Set your mind on quality fabric. Don't settle for cheap fabric that will wear out after a few washes. Invest in high-quality stuff. That usually means all-natural material like silk and linen, as opposed to manufactured material like polyester.

2.    Pick a design. If the dress is for a wedding, have a general design in mind before choosing the fabric. Even if that is not the exact thing you want to reproduce, it is important to have a rough idea of the image you want to portray eventually.

3.    Match the fabric with the design. Once you have a design in mind, it is easier to choose the right type of fabric. Different designs work with different fabrics and materials, and therefore it is important that the decision-making for these two factors go hand-in-hand.

4.    Ask for referrals to good seamstresses/tailors. Good quality fabric and a beautiful design mean nothing if the tailor is not of the highest calibre. If unsure, always ask around for referrals, suggestions or opinions. It would also be wise to obtain a few different quotations before settling for one.


d'Italia, a designer fabric store located in Malvern (Melbourne, Australia), imports Italian silk and French lace directly from Europe. The fabric comes from the same European fashion houses which supply to the biggest names in haute couture.

d'Italia prides itself in providing  completely natural fabric. The pure silk satin and chiffon and French silk trims are unmatched in natural quality and uniqueness. A major plus-point is the dressmaker referral system that the shop offers as an optional addition.  Some of Australia's best dressmakers (especially in the wedding arena) are affiliates of d'Italia, and reservations can be made through the store for tailoring and fitting appointments.