AT THE INTERSECTION OF CRAFTSMANSHIP, SUSTAINABILITY and
YOUR PERSONAL STYLE
photo by fionabaileyphotography.com
Welcome
In today’s world where almost everything is claiming to be bespoke, I offer the real thing, right here in beautiful mid-coast Maine. Trained in England, I use traditional materials and time honored techniques to produce clothes that endure. Clothes that with proper care could potentially last a lifetime. These are clothes made for you, and you alone. In other words, true bespoke.
Everything is made by me in my small coastal workroom. But it’s more than just the clothes. I offer you a sartorial experience in which you are an active participant. You have the opportunity to make all the choices; from the fabrics right down to the buttons; a rare experience in today’s fashion marketplace.
Bringing your unique vision to life.
Photo by fionabaileyphotography.com
A PASSION FOR BEAUTIFUL BRITISH TWEEDS, TIMELESS STYLE, AND DEVOTION TO CRAFTSMANSHIP
I was fortunate to be accepted as one of the first international students at The Tailoring Academy in Macclesfield, UK. There I was taught the two roles of true bespoke tailoring; those being Cutter and Tailor.
As the cutter I use your measurements as well as some postural observations to draft and cut patterns unique for your body. These patterns are revised several times during the course of the commission. I retain the patterns as the starting point for any future garments you desire.
As your tailor I construct your garments using traditional materials that are unique to the trade. The majority of the work is done by hand, most of it hidden inside the garment. Every garment comes to completion through a series of fittings in which you are an active participant.
As a team, we make your vision a reality.
A MODERN APPROACH TO TAILORED CLOTHING
Tailored clothes are always an investment; be they bespoke, made to measure, or off the rack. Versatility is key, and that’s best achieved through a straightforward classic style. The tweeds that I prefer to work with are timeless and will never go out of style. They are not only appropriate for life’s special occasions, they can also work seamlessly into one’s everyday wardrobe. Sustainability through versatility equals value.
Break up a suit. Consider wearing the jacket as outerwear. Pair it with jeans. Barn wedding? You’re good to go.
Wear a waistcoat as an extra layer during the cooler months. Keep your core warm and your arms free.
Pair your trousers with a sweater or your favorite flannel shirt.
Wearing clothes you value, time and time again, is at the heart of sustainability. In so doing, you counter the environmental impact of disposable fast fashion.
FAQs
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This is a common question. A made to measure suit is based on a standardized block. After a series of measurements are taken the garment is made in a factory. Modern manufacturing relies heavily on fusible materials. Structure is obtained with glued in support fabrics. When completed only simple alterations are made. Generally the trousers are finished and the sleeves may be tweaked a small amount.
Bespoke garments are based solely on the clients measurements, and result in individualized patterns. The use of fusibles is minimal. The structure of the jacket is built on a specialized canvas fabric. The tailor shapes the fabric over the canvas with hundreds of individual stitches. This assures that the jacket will always retain its shape. Extra fabric is built into the garment’s seams so that it can accommodate a changing shape. This adds longevity to the bespoke garment, and increases its value in the wardrobe.
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Consultations are always free, so don’t hesitate to get in touch. If you have general questions please use the contact form. In certain cases we may connect over FaceTime or Zoom. If you want to look at fabric samples we would arrange to meet at Union + Co, the new co-working space in Bath, Maine. It’s a bright modern space with convenient parking nearby.
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My preferred fabrics are British tweeds. They are the focus here at Hold Fast Bespoke. Solids, herringbones, donegals and windowpanes. Timeless fabrics that never go out of style. They come in a wide range of colors, and are well suited to the New England climate. I realize you may not be as passionate about them as I am, so of course we can always discuss other fabric choices.
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You should plan on sixteen weeks for a suit or jacket. After your measurements are taken the patterns will be drafted. The fabric will be ordered and shipped from the UK. The construction will take place over the course of 3 fittings which will all take place at Union + Co in Bath, Maine. I will guide you through the process with the hope of providing an outstanding and enjoyable experience.
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Bespoke clothing is expensive, there is no getting around it. There are hours of meticulous handsewing involved. Fabrics can also differ in price.
Currently estimating
Jacket $3200 - $3500
Waistcoat $850 - $1000
Trousers $1350 -$1500
Of course a detailed quote will be provided for your approval before any work begins.
Photo by fionabaileyphotography.com