Why Made-to-Measure?
Many people wonder why a made-to-measure uniform is so much more expensive than a stock uniform from a major supplier, and why they should pay more for the same thing.
There is a big difference between a made-to-measure uniform, and a stock uniform.
With a stock uniform, you get whatever is available. With a Made to Measure uniform from Tarpy Tailors, you can design your uniform to your own needs. Would you like your coat to stand out in the cockpit? Order a special lining color, so you'll always know which one is yours. Would you like an extra pocket for your cell phone? Special buttons? Fully lined trousers? Not a problem.
With a stock uniform, you choose the closest size that fits. This can work well if your body's shape and size matches the pattern that the manufacturer used. Most of us don't have that kind of body. Here at Tarpy Tailors, we will take several measurements of your body. This allows us to produce a uniform that matches your body's shape and size much more accurately than a stock uniform.
Once you provide your measurements, and place an order, our experienced tailors will take your measurements, and create a custom pattern for your garments, then use that pattern to make your uniform. This is a time-consuming and expensive process, but the results are worth it.
While it may seem expensive at first, the value of a Made-to-Measure uniform is much greater than that of a stock uniform, for several reasons.
A Tarpy Tailors made-to-measure uniform is made with higher quality fabric, that will hold up under everyday use.
Since a Made-to-Measure uniform is made specifically for your body, it will fit better than a stock uniform. A better fit means a more comfortable uniform, which will wear out more slowly, providing many years of service. In addition, Tarpy Tailors makes every uniform with extra seam allowances, which gives you the opportunity to let out your uniform in the unlikely event that you put on some weight. Most stock uniforms or suits have much smaller seam allowances. So a Made to Measure uniform from Tarpy Tailors will last much longer than a regular suit or stock uniform.
What is the difference between a Made to Measure Pilot Uniform, and a custom suit?
Not much. The process and the workmanship are exactly the same as a custom made-to-measure suit. The primary difference is that we use uniform fabrics designed to hold up under everyday use. Also, our uniforms are all made in the USA, unlike most custom suits.
What is the downside?
Well, there is the higher cost, but we feel that the many years of service that you will get from your uniform will actually result in a lower cost overall.
Made-to-Measure uniforms will take longer to make. While we try very hard to ship quickly, it generally will take 4-6 weeks from the time of order. Our tailors hand-make your uniform the "old fashioned" way, in order to produce a superior uniform, and this process takes time.
Made-to-Measure uniforms may take multiple fittings to "get it right". While we strive to get the fit right the first time, this is not always possible. To provide the best service, we recommend that you come in to our store to be measured, and return for a final fitting, so that we can make any necessary adjustments. Of course, if this is not possible, then we will do our best to ensure that you receive the finest uniform, and we will work with you to make sure that you are completely satisfied with your purchase.
Tarpy Tailors will also keep your measurements on file, so that you can re-order later without having to get measured again - provided you have not gained or lost a substantial amount of weight. We suggest that even if you are not ready to purchase, you should come and visit us the next time you are in Los Angeles. We will be happy to take your measurements, and keep them on file for when you are ready.
In summary, while you might pay more, and wait longer, we know that your Tarpy Tailors made-to-measure uniform will look better, last longer, and provide you with many years of comfort and value.
