If the suit fits.

The meaning of tailored to you means exactly that. The fit, the shape and overall size is fitted specifically to your body and your body only.

The caveat? Be prepared to spend money.

Sometimes a tailored suit can reach the thousands. The more custom fitting, the more dough required.

There are basically 3 different types you should be aware of: bespoke, made-to-measure and ready-to-wear.

Bespoke suits are suits made from scratch from the customer's exact measurements giving the best fit possible. Bespoke suits are generally unnecessary for most people if there are more affordable options available. Bespoke are most suitable for men with unusual shapes like being extremely stocky and short or the complete opposite.

Made-to-measure are what most people would associate with tailor made suits. This is when your measurements are used to match the closest sizing templates available. It is later modified to the customer when the suit is being made.

Ready-to-wear are also known as off-the-rack suits. Suits that are pre-made in stores. They can be made with slightly extra material which can be altered and brought in by a tailor according to the customer's measurements for a more fitted look.

Tailors are skilful craftsmen. Though it may seem unnecessary, finding both an honest tailor with the skills to match is just as important as finding the suit for you. As a client, establishing a relationship will be worthwhile in the long term if you're investing in more suits. Remember their name and eventually you'll be asking for the usual. It's a bit like your relationship with your barber. You trust them enough to mess with your hair and yet you keep coming back.

A slim fit suit that fits you perfectly will create more of an impression than a non-tailored suit off-the-rack. If the following image is any indication, then I rest my case.

But even if you're getting a designer suit, get it tailored. It will be the difference between being treated like a juvenile or a professional by both business associates and women.

But don't go to some cheap alterations and dry-cleaning store. Though some may have sufficient skill, it's nothing compared to what real tailors can do for you. That was my first mistake. I spent $130 from an alterations place and though it achieved the slim-fitted look I wanted, it was undermined by the wrinkles made when I shuffled around - something tailors are constantly aware of. Lucky it was a polyester suit. I've since paid double the amount from real tailors that have done wonders on other suits.

This rule also applies to waistcoats, overcoats, trench-coats and coat coats. (I made the last one up).

If you want to know the Sydney tailors I've used in the past hit us up in the comments and I'll pass you on their details. Both have had at least 50 years experience.

- W.A.